MBALE|On May 25, 2024, the School of Hygiene held its 4th graduation ceremony, celebrating the achievements of 615 students across various courses. Among the graduates, 16 earned a Higher Diploma in Health Leadership and Management, 168 received a Diploma in Environmental Health Science, and 421 were awarded a Certificate in Environmental Health Science.
The principal of the school, Mr. Ilukor Geresom, certified that the 615 graduates have fulfilled the requirements of the basic education curriculum as set by the Department of Education and the Uganda Allied Health Examination Board.
Mr. Geresom highlighted the school’s history, noting its establishment in 1958 with an initial enrollment of 60 students. The school was founded to train health inspectors, health assistants, and health orderlies, addressing public health challenges such as poor housing, low social status, ignorance, and poor living conditions prevalent in the post-World War era.
The principal explained that the school trains preventive health workers, who are key implementers of primary health services for the Ministry of Health.
He detailed the various programs offered, including a two-year Certificate in Environmental Health Science, a two-year Diploma in Environmental Health Science, a post-basic Diploma in Environmental Health Science (offered on weekends for two years), a one-year Higher Diploma in Health Leadership and Management, and a Higher Diploma in Health Promotion and Education.
Mr. Geresom addressed several challenges facing the school, such as having only five full-time tutors and eleven non-teaching staff on the government payroll. A total of 64 teaching and non-teaching staff members are not on the payroll.
Despite these challenges, the graduates have been equipped with entrepreneurial skills, enabling them to venture into self-sustainable avenues in both the public and private sectors.
He also mentioned the growing number of students and the inadequate accommodation for both students and staff.
Additionally, he pointed out the poor road network accessing the institution, his own transport difficulties for attending events, and the dilapidated state of the school buildings.
In his recommendations, the principal called for the recruitment of more teaching and non-teaching staff, the construction of additional buildings to increase classroom and office space, and continued investment in education and research infrastructure.
Mr. Geresom extended his appreciation to the parents for supporting their sons and daughters throughout their studies.
He encouraged the graduates to remember the challenges they overcame, as these experiences are meant to shape them for their purpose.
He urged them to strive for excellence and make a positive impact in the fields of environmental and public health.
In conclusion, the principal reaffirmed the school’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and self-sufficiency, expressing confidence that together they can overcome any challenge and create a better future for all.
Dr. Hajjat Safinah Kisu Musene, the Commissioner of Health Education and Training Institutions at the Ministry of Education and Sports, who was the chief guest urged graduates to remain responsible citizens in the country socially and not to be drunkards.
“We expect you to be professionals and experts in whatever you do, and to be available whenever we need your services. Provide accurate results, be there for us, and keep time for work.” she said
The institution, established in 1958 to train Health Inspectors, Health Assistants, and Health Orderlies, aimed at addressing public health challenges such as poor housing, low social status, ignorance, and poor living conditions following the World Wars.
