KAMPALA, UGANDA – June 5, 2023: In a proactive move to address the concerns raised by pre-medical interns, the Ministry of Health in Uganda held a crucial meeting this week.
The meeting aimed to provide updates and possible options for the deployment of interns to medical institutions while awaiting the Ministry of Finance’s communication on funding for their allowances.
During the virtual gathering, Dr. Diana Atwine, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, empathetically acknowledged the pleas from parents and pre-interns who had expressed their willingness to commence their internships at their own expense.
This voluntary arrangement was suggested as a means to avoid further delays and ensure minimal loss of time for the aspiring medical professionals.
The Ministry also acknowledged the potential disruption caused by the delayed deployment of medical interns. With other students from various medical schools nearing graduation, it has become imperative to consider the impact on internship cycles and the subsequent competition for limited training facilities.
In response to these challenges, the Ministry made a humble request to pre-medical interns who are financially capable to apply for deployment at their preferred internship training centers. The Ministry assured them that if funds are made available by the Ministry of Finance, their expenses would be reimbursed accordingly.
However, despite the Ministry’s proactive efforts to find solutions, a regrettable incident occurred during the meeting.
The Ministry’s Senior Public Relations Officer, Emmanuel Aineyoona, expressed disappointment in the unruly behavior displayed by some of the pre-medical interns in attendance.
“Insults were hurled at Ministry officials who were diligently discussing deployment options, which undermined the constructive dialogue sought by the Ministry,” he revealed in a statement yesterday.
Adding to the challenges, Aineyoona highlighted an online campaign that has emerged, characterized by distorted information and abusive messages directed at the Ministry of Health. Such behavior not only detracts from the collective goal of resolving the situation but also undermines the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to ensure the well-being of interns.
Emphasizing the importance of maintaining calm and professionalism, Aineyoona urged the pre-interns to prioritize their internship applications promptly to minimize any further loss of time.
He reiterated that the Ministry is dedicated to upholding the rights and welfare of interns, as evidenced by their continuous efforts to find solutions and engage in open dialogue.
MOH Achievements:
It is worth noting that the Ministry of Health in Uganda has achieved significant milestones in healthcare provision. Through its tireless efforts, it has improved access to quality medical services, implemented vital public health initiatives, and strengthened healthcare infrastructure across the country.
As the Ministry of Health perseveres in its commitment to resolving the intern situation, it calls upon all stakeholders to engage constructively and refrain from spreading misinformation or resorting to abusive behavior.
By working together, the Ministry and aspiring medical professionals can overcome the challenges at hand and ensure a brighter future for Uganda’s healthcare system.