By Abel Kawere – Mukono
It was a joyful and colorful occasion at St. Francis School of Health Science in Namataba, Mukono District, as the institution held its 12th graduation ceremony. More than 320 students successfully completed their studies in pharmacy, nursing, and laboratory technology, under the theme “Expertise as the Pillar of Medical Training.”
The event began with a Mass led by Rev. Fr. Chrizestom Maviiri, who reminded the graduates that medical workers are messengers of God, called to bring healing and compassion.
He urged the new health professionals to demonstrate the skills they have gained and to treat patients with dignity and care. He further encouraged teamwork among medical workers to help solve challenges in hospitals.
After the Mass, the official graduation ceremony commenced.
Bbosa Kiwanuka Peter, the proprietor of the college, expressed gratitude to the parents for entrusting the institution with their children’s education and for consistently supporting them through payment of school fees.
The chief guest, Prof. Patrick Edrin Kyamanywa, Vice Chancellor of Uganda Martyrs University–Nkozi, was represented by Dr. Charles Patrick Namisi, the Dean of the School of Medicine at Nkozi University.
In his address, Dr. Namisi advised the graduates to remain disciplined, punctual, and transparent especially when they receive multiple job offers. He also cautioned them against gossiping about patients, emphasizing the importance of confidentiality and professional ethics.
He encouraged the graduates to continue learning, stressing that education does not end with graduation, but must be continually upgraded to compete effectively in the medical field.
Some of the graduates expressed gratitude to God for enabling them to reach this milestone and thanked their parents for their unwavering financial and emotional support.
The college spokesperson, Simon Ssebakigge, reaffirmed that the institution had thoroughly prepared the graduates with the skills needed for the medical profession.
He thanked parents for their support and urged them to continue bringing more students so the school can further contribute to the health sector through skilled training.
