NEWS- As Bwindi Community Hospital marked its 20th anniversary, Uganda Nursing School Bwindi celebrated its third graduation, including the first cohort from Uganda College of Health Sciences.
The Nursing School trains nurses and midwives, while the College focuses on clinical officers. A total of 250 students graduated with diplomas and certificates in midwifery, clinical medicine, and health sciences.
The chief guest, Mr. Sam Wanda, Executive Director of UWA, conveyed through Mr. Charles Tumwesigye, the Deputy Field Operations at Uganda UWA, expressed pleasure in their partnership with Dr. Scott in establishing Bwindi Community Hospital.
He commended the two decades of exceptional healthcare services provided to both the local population and tourists visiting Bwindi National Park.
Dr. Asaph Owomukama, the Executive Director of Bwindi Community Hospital, emphasized that the celebration of 20 years was not just marking time but a testament to countless lives impacted by unwavering commitment to accessible and exceptional healthcare.
He challenged the graduates to carry total compassion into their noble path of healthcare, offering healing and comfort.
Special appreciation was extended to Dr. Scott Kellerman and the Kellerman Foundation for their pivotal role in the hospital’s inception. Dr. Scott shared that his motivation stemmed from the challenging conditions faced by the Batwa people, expelled from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Dr. Ben Bonye, Chairperson of the Board of Governors, highlighted the hospital’s transformation from humble beginnings under a tree to a renowned institution.
He urged graduates to apply the knowledge acquired from the institution in their professional journey.
The Right Rev. Dan Zoreka, in a message from the Bishop of Diocese of Kinkiizi, lauded the graduates for their incredible success after years of hard work. He encouraged them to be beacons of hope, demonstrating love and care to the sick.
Hon. Frank Byaruhanga, representing the LC5 Chairperson Kanungu District, praised Dr. Scott Kellerman for starting Bwindi Community Hospital and all the Partners who supported along the way in the establishment of Uganda Nursing School Bwindi noting the significant improvement in health facilities within the district.
Betega David Chief Administrative Officer Kanungu, when informed about an award which was given to Kanungu as a district for the outstanding service and dedication to Bwindi community hospital, he expressed how challenged he was, saying that instead it was Kanungu to appreciate BCH services, he hailed them for filling the gaps left in the government health service delivery and pledged to continue supporting the hospital as a district.
“All we are doing is in the name of Public- Private- Partnership policy of the NRM Government” Betega said.
