Strengthening Allied Health Sciences in Developing Countries: Perspectives from Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, a Leading University of Technology

Abstract

Allied Health Sciences are rapidly becoming indispensable to resilient and equitable health systems in the Global South. This opinion piece examines the rise of allied health professions in developing countries and explains how demographic shifts, the expanding burden of non-communicable diseases, and technological advances have collectively amplified demand for skilled allied health workers. It discusses how education reforms and the proliferation of university faculties, together with interprofessional education, are strengthening local capacity for diagnostics, rehabilitation, community outreach, and health information management. The COVID-19 pandemic is highlighted as both a stress test and a catalyst that showcased the central role of laboratory scientists, physiotherapists, radiographers, and community health workers in emergency and recovery responses. The abstract also outlines persistent constraints, including weak regulation, limited career pathways, workforce maldistribution, and insufficient investment in infrastructure and continuous professional development.    Policy priorities are proposed: integrate allied health into national human resources for health planning, strengthen accreditation and licensing systems, invest in targeted training and mentorship programs, and expand research and technology adoption matched to local needs. Finally, the abstract argues that a deliberate policy and institutional focus on Allied Health Sciences can widen access to essential services in under-served areas, improve health equity, and accelerate progress toward universal health coverage.