Govt reaffirms pledge to strengthen health training institutions

__________________

The Government of Uganda has reiterated its commitment to strengthening health training institutions across the country to produce a competent, motivated, and globally competitive health workforce.

This was revealed by higher education state minister Dr John Chrysostom Muyingo while officiating the 8th graduation ceremony of Fort Portal College of Health Sciences on October 10, 2025, in Fort Portal city.

Muyingo revealed that this will be achieved by the government through the provision of the required infrastructure, curriculum modernisation, and resources such as sponsoring students who will, upon completion of their studies, contribute to a high-quality health care system. “Our goal is to prepare institutions and graduates to meet today’s and tomorrow’s health challenges,” he said.

Some of the students that graduated during the 8th graduation ceremony of Fort Portal College of Health Sciences. (Photo by Jonan Tusingwire)

The minister’s remarks come shortly after Cabinet approved the National Education and Training for Health Policy, 2025, to provide a framework that guides the actions of all stakeholders involved in health training. The policy seeks to achieve an effective and globally competitive health workforce.

“This policy will strengthen the health systems with sufficient numbers of health workforce, and equitably distributed health staff that is competent, responsive, motivated and productive,” Muyingo said.

According to minister Muyingo, this is in line with the government’s Vision 2040, in which it envisions building highly specialised health care services that position Uganda as a regional hub for quality health care through specialised training.

“For Uganda to realise its Vision, there is a need to address the critical gaps in enrolment, training and deployment of specialised medical practitioners,” the minister added.

Serve with professionalism

The minister called on newly graduated health professionals to serve patients with the highest levels of professionalism, dignity, and compassion. Muyingo emphasised the critical role that health workers play in society, especially in times of crisis and recovery.

“As you go out into the world of work, remember to serve patients with professionalism, dignity and love. Step into your future with confidence, humility, and a desire to serve humanity,” he said.

He challenged the new health professionals to use the newly acquired skills to improve their professional practice as they strive for expertise and leadership.

“Ensure that you practise what you have learned with honesty and professionalism,” he said. “Be the health workers who are reliable, full of ethical values and committed to serve and save lives, and drive this nation to another level,” he added.

A total of 889 graduates received diplomas and certificates in various health disciplines, according to Kate Commander, the institution’s principal.

Commander commended the students for their resilience, especially amid challenges posed by limited resources and a growing demand for health care services. “You have earned your place in a noble profession. Carry forward the values instilled in you, and always put the patient at the centre of your practice,” she said.