Color, thrill as 292 graduate at Ishaka Adventist health training institutions

Zadock Amanyisa
On Sunday 15th September, 2024, students who finished their studies at Ishaka Adventist Hospital Health training institutions, Ishaka Adventist School of Nursing and Midwifery, and Ishaka Adventist School of Allied Health Sciences in the years 2020-2023 graduated with certificates and diplomas.
The event was graced by Dr. Iris Mamier, Ass. Professor of Loma Linda University School of Nursing. The Church was represented by East and Central Africa Division Director of Education, Dr. Andrew Mutero, Dr. Pr. Moses Maka Ndimukika, the Uganda Union Mission President, Pr. Nicholas Bitamazire, the Uganda Union Executive Secretary, and others, while the Board of Governors was represented by Elder Vincent Zirimwabagabo, the Chairperson of the board.
The ceremony was an interesting moment of life, especially on the side of the students, as the day marked their passage to becoming more learned people. Appearing in a procession followed by dignitaries brought to students and their parents and guardians feelings of pride in accomplishment and gladness. Speaking one after the other, the speakers of the day highlighted how important it was for the training institutions and their products to reach another level.
The hot and dusty day was also animated by beautiful singing and dancing of songs by the student choirs with all the pomp and circumstance that was on full display. Just as much as the community and graduates were celebrating academic achievements, they were also coming together. All the students that were celebrating, the staff and faculty presenting the awards and certifications, and the families and friends in the audience as well, in recognition of the fact that, for everyone, things were different.

Mentioning that the graduates had responded in the affirmative to their calling to become healthcare providers, the guest of honor, Iris Mamier, PhD, RN, anAssociate Professor from Loma Linda University | School of Nursing, USA, commended the achievers of the day for the decision, expressing that the hurting world desperately needs people to serve in healthcare.
“To this end, much work, effort, and resources have been invested. You submitted to the task and persevered, and that’s why you are joyfully wearing your regalia today. You look into the faces of your teachers, family, and friends who are celebrating you today. With gratitude, you remember how they have encouraged and supported you along the way and cheered you on.” Prof. Mamier cheered on
She challenged the graduating class of 2024 to ponder what they are taking away from this institution, the values by which they want to practice as a healthcare provider, urging them to clothe themselves with caring, compassion, kindness, justice, and fairness, which are the values that go a long way for effective health care providers.
“Change the world—your world—and make it better; leave your footprints walking in the footprints of the Great Healer and touch the lives of those you come in contact with. effective healthcare provider,” Prof. Mamier charged

The East and Central Africa Division Director of Education, Dr. Andrew Mutero, called upon graduands turned graduates to be vital figures in extending Jesus’ healing ministry to the world. ‘As you step into the job market, remember that you are not just nurses and health workers but ambassadors of the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Your role is crucial in extending this ministry to all, and you have the potential to make a significant impact on patients’ lives. We hope to recognize you with awards for the great work you will do in service to God and humanity.” He said
Pr. Dr. Moses Maka Ndimukika, the Uganda Union Mission President, while addressing the congregation, blessed the ready-to-be churned-out men and women to front wholeness and wellness for all.
“May the knowledge, skills, and experiences you have gained while at Ishaka propel you to make a difference in the lives of those that you will interact with in your service to God and humanity. May the Lord go with you and you go out of the gates of Ishaka to love and serve humanity by offering the Christ-centered service for wholeness and wellness of all,” Pr. Maka said to the products.
He also used the same platform to celebrate the parents and sponsors of the students for their sacrifice and all the financial, moral, and emotional support rendered the students through their period of study.

Elder Vincent Zirimwabagabo, the Chairperson of the board appreciated the leadership of Loma Linda University Health and Adventist Health International for the partnership that has helped Ishaka to achieve great strides.
“All these needs financial input would not have been possible without your support, our key funders, Winfred L. Stevens Foundation, are highly appreciated for having supported the construction of a 300-bed capacity girls’ hostel, 10 classroom blocks, a water harvesting project, and several other kinds of support.” he said
What other dignitaries of the day said
You have been fully equipped with knowledge and skills to go and face the world. I want to tell you that no matter your chosen path, please recognize the tremendous significance of your achievements in making the transition from being Ishaka students to Ishaka graduates. Prepare to embrace new opportunities and new possibilities. Sometimes life is going to be unfair and even hard. In such circumstances, remember that God will carry you through Philippians 4:13. Ms. Lydia Komugisha, Executive Director, Ishaka Adventist Hospital Health Training Institutions.
We are proud of Ishaka Adventist Institutions, which started small offering certificate courses but today have grown to attain diploma-offering status. It is a big development, and as part of this country, we are grateful. These institutions have been able to grow as academic institutions and the infrastructure. We want to recognize that these institutions have continued to produce standout products, and I believe before us that these will be suitable graduates in the field and they will do wonderful work. Mr. Dan Mugyenyi, Education Officer, Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality
I appreciate what Ishaka has turned me into because, apart from the skills I got in class, I was supported to be in class. The management of the institution got me a sponsor Prof. Erling Oksenholt, who enabled me to keep in school having come from a humble background. What also excites me is being absorbed into the system after studying. This has in a way or another touched my life, and I am sure I will not remain the same again. Mushemeza Prince, Enrolled Nurse
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