The number of skilled manpower in the Ministry of Health has risen double fold in the past 20 years, according to the Director General of Research and Human Resource Development at the Ministry, Dr. Andom Ogabamariam.

In an interview he conducted with ERINA in connection with the symposium of the Ministry scheduled to be held from 11 to 13 March in Asmara, Dr. Andom said that relentless efforts were carried out to upgrade skilled health professionals through Government's substantial investment along with the expansion of health institutions in different parts of the country. Dr. Andom added that impressive achievement was registered in this area.

In this respect, the Director General indicated that Orota Medical School, health colleges and schools of associate nursing in Barentu, Ginda and Mendefera were opened. He stated that 1,800 nurses, 2,700 associate nurses and 905 technicians received training and are discharging their duties diligently.

Moreover, Dr. Andom said that 60 doctors were graduated on the basis of internal capacity, in addition to those students sent abroad to pursue further education. He also indicated that the efforts to upgrade pediatrician specialists is bearing fruitful outcome.

The Director General finally explained that according to the developing countries standard one doctor is for 50,000 people, but in Eritrea, 1 doctor treats 20,000, and this is great achievement in the health sector.