The Kyabazinga of Busoga, William Gabula Nadiope IV, has been inaugurated as Chancellor of Lubega Institute of health sciences and professionals.
The eventcoincided with the 5th graduation ceremony of the institute where over 500 students were awarded certificates and diplomas in various medical and health-related disciplines.
The graduation ceremony was filled with joy and celebration as students from diverse academic backgrounds—ranging from nursing, midwifery, pharmacy, clinical medicine, and other medical fields —were honored for successfully completing their studies.
The medical graduates began the day by taking their professional oaths, overseen by Peter Nyamutale, Registrar of the Allied Health Professionals Council, in accordance with legal and ethical standards of their professions.
In his inaugural address as chancellor, the Kyabazinga urged the new graduates to apply the knowledge and skills acquired at the institution to improve healthcare delivery within their communities.
He emphasized the need for continued commitment from parents in supporting their children’s educational journeys.
“I feel fortunate to be here today, witnessing the harvest of academic success at Lubega Institute of Science and Health Professionals,” said the Kyabazinga.
“This ceremony is not only a testament to the hard work of the students and faculty but also a primary argument for the institution’s continued growth and survival.”
The monarch expressed his support for the institution’s ambitious plans to evolve into a fully-fledged university.
“I have learnt of the ongoing efforts to establish the long-awaited Lubega University of Science and Technology. This initiative will create avenues for higher academic acquisition and broaden professional training opportunities,” he said.
The Kyabazinga commended the executive team of the institute for their dedication, describing them as local investors with a vision for transforming the region through education.
He further reiterated the kingdom’s commitment to working in partnership with the institute on transformative projects aimed at benefiting both the institution and the wider Busoga region.
“We value our relationship with this institute and are aware of the scholarships you offer to our students in the Busoga sub-region—some of whom are graduating today. We look forward to more cooperative efforts,” he said.
Quoting William Osler, a founding figure of modern medicine, the Kyabazinga reminded the graduates;
“The good physician treats the disease; the great physician treats the patient who has the disease.”
He encouraged the new health professionals to emulate this philosophy in their careers.
As a United Nations National Goodwill Ambassador for Ending Teenage Pregnancies, the Kyabazinga also used the occasion to call upon graduates and parents to take an active role in preventing teenage pregnancies in their communities.
“I commission you as mobilizers—encouraging young girls and boys in your care to stay in school and engage in activities that add value to their lives,” he urged.
He also commended parents for their role in the academic success of the graduates.
“Congratulations to all parents for having both the insight and foresight to educate your children. I encourage you to continue guiding them until they are able to stand on their own.”
In his capacity Dr. Muhamadi Lubega Kisambira, the proprietor of the Institute and Chairperson of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council expressed deep gratitude to the Kyabazinga for his unwavering support of education and the development of the health sector in Busoga.
“We are on the verge of a major milestone,” Dr. Lubega announced. “Plans are well underway to transform Lubega Institute of Health Sciences into a fully-fledged university.
The letter of authority to establish Lubega University of Science and Technology is expected soon, Insha’Allah.”
He revealed that the university will initially comprise two faculties: one dedicated to Health Sciences, encompassing current programs, and another in Education and Management to expand academic offerings.
The Prime Minister (Katukiro) of Busoga Dr Joseph Muvawala applauded the priority of Lubega Institute of health sciences and professionals for his dedication towards the development of the Institute.
"Those of us who saw this Institute starting we know that we used to hold meeting under trees because of limited space but today it is a totally a different place, we thank Dr. Lubega for his dedication towards prioritizing education," he said.
The graduation and inauguration ceremony marked a significant chapter in the history of Lubega School of Health Sciences and the Busoga sub-region at large, as it celebrated not only academic achievement but also a renewed commitment to educational growth and community development.