COVID-19

The usual quiet morning of Good Friday, April 10, 2020, was shattered by the spreading news of the death of Professor Jacob Plange-Rhule. For many persons, the news elicited sentiments of grief and outpouring of statements on the good nature of the third Rector of the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons. Even though he died at the age of 62 years, his footprints will remain in several places where his feet hath trod in academia, medical education, medical ‘politics’, golf, and family life. Professor Plange-Rhule graduated as a medical doctor from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) in 1984. In 1987, he was admitted to the University of Manchester for a Ph.D. course in Physiology which he completed in 1991. He returned to Ghana and was appointed a lecturer in the Department of Physiology at the School of Medical Sciences of KNUST and also Senior Medical Officer at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi. This was the beginning of an enduring career in medical practice, medical education, health research, and the welfare of medical practitioners in Ghana. The staff of the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons described him as “a unique leader with a great level of humility and love for humanity”, “in good times and bad times he never lost his capacity to smile or laugh” and many more of such recollections. There is also the recognition of his work ethic and respect for administrative procedures. During his term as Rector, he carried the programs of the College forward championing curricular reforms, harmonization with the West African Colleges of Physicians, and Surgeons, the introduction of a new diploma course, accessing government support for scholarships for residents, and the refurbishment of the hospitality wing of the College building. He left behind his wife and three lovely daughters.