Our Departments

Overview

The Department of Community Health at Bethsaida College of Health Technology, Ogbomoso, is dedicated to training skilled and compassionate professionals who serve as the link between the health system and the community.

Established with the vision of improving the overall health status of Nigerian communities, the department focuses on the prevention, promotion, and maintenance of health at the grassroots level.
Our students are trained to become change agents who identify health needs, plan interventions, and promote sustainable community health development.

Our Philosophy

At the heart of our program lies a simple but powerful belief:

“Healthy communities are the foundation of a healthy nation.”

The department emphasizes preventive health care, environmental sanitation, disease surveillance, and health education as the cornerstones of community well-being.
We believe that by empowering health workers with both knowledge and empathy, we can reduce disease burdens and improve quality of life across Nigeria.

Our Objectives

The Department of Community Health aims to:

• Train competent and motivated Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs) and Junior Community Health Extension Workers (JCHEWs) capable of functioning effectively in rural and urban settings.
  
  
• Equip students with practical skills for disease prevention, health education, immunization, family health, and environmental health management.
  
  
• Promote leadership, communication, and teamwork skills needed for effective community mobilization.
  
  
• Prepare graduates to serve as primary health care frontliners in hospitals, health centers, NGOs, and government agencies.

Programs Offered

The department currently runs the following programs approved by the relevant regulatory bodies:

1. Community Health Extension Worker (CHEW)

• Duration: 3 years
  
  
• Entry Requirements: 5 credits in WAEC/NECO/NABTEB including English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics (at not more than two sittings).
  
  
• Program Description:
  This program trains students to function as middle-level health practitioners capable of delivering comprehensive primary health care services in both rural and urban communities.
  CHEWs are trained to diagnose, treat, refer, and educate individuals and families on preventive health practices.

2. Junior Community Health Extension Worker (JCHEW)

• Duration: 2 years
  
  
• Entry Requirements: 3–4 credits in relevant science subjects.
  
  
• Program Description:
  This entry-level program focuses on preventive health care, maternal and child health, environmental sanitation, and health education.
  JCHEWs play a vital role in disease prevention, immunization campaigns, and home visits in rural areas.

Curriculum Highlights

The curriculum is designed in accordance with the Community Health Practitioners Registration Board of Nigeria (CHPRBN) standards. It combines classroom instruction, laboratory practicals, and field experience to produce well-rounded health professionals.

Key Courses Include:

• Principles of Primary Health Care
  
  
• Epidemiology and Disease Control
  
  
• Health Education and Communication
  
  
• Nutrition and Food Hygiene
  
  
• Environmental and Occupational Health
  
  
• Family Health and Reproductive Health
  
  
• Community Diagnosis and Data Collection
  
  
• Health Management, Planning, and Supervision
  
  

Students undergo clinical and field postings in approved health facilities and communities to gain real-life experience in community health delivery.

Teaching and Learning Approach

The department adopts a polytechnic-style model — emphasizing hands-on, practical learning over theory alone.
Through simulation labs, community fieldwork, outreach programs, and health campaigns, students develop the confidence and competence needed to operate effectively in real health settings.

We also organize seminars, workshops, and case studies that expose students to current public health challenges such as maternal mortality, communicable diseases, and environmental sanitation issues.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Department of Community Health are in high demand in both the public and private sectors.
Career paths include:

• Primary Health Care Centers
  
  
• General Hospitals and Teaching Hospitals
  
  
• Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
  
  
• Local, State, and Federal Health Agencies
  
  
• Schools and Community Development Programs
  
  
• Private Health Facilities
  
  
• International Health Missions and Research Projects
  
  

Many of our graduates also advance to higher studies in Public Health, Environmental Health, or Epidemiology.

Why Choose Bethsaida College of Health Technology?

✅ Government-Approved & Accredited programs by CHPRBN and other relevant bodies.
✅ Modern laboratories and demonstration rooms for practical training.
✅ Experienced lecturers and field supervisors with years of industry experience.
✅ Strong community engagement projects that prepare students for real-life health challenges.
✅ Peaceful and supportive learning environment in Ogbomoso.

At Bethsaida, we don’t just train students — we build health leaders dedicated to improving the lives of others.

Join Us

If you’re passionate about serving humanity and making a real difference in communities, the Department of Community Health at Bethsaida College of Health Technology, Ogbomoso is your gateway to a rewarding and impactful career in health care.