UoG’s College of Medicine and Health Sciences graduates a new batch of medical doctors

What took place in the newly constructed gymnasium in the College of Medicine and Health Sciences on 23 September was a testament to the dedication of the University of Gondar to produce capable professionals for society. The graduation commencement of UoG’s medical students started roughly around 9 am and brought together Ethiopians from far reaching parts of the country. Dr. Desalegn Mengesha, president of the University of Gondar, Dr. Kebede Worku, State minister of the Federal Ministry of Health, Prof. Afework Kasu State minister of the Federal Ministry of Science and Technology, Dr. Sisay Yefrew, Dean of the Medical College, University of Gondar’s higher officials and the loved ones of the graduates were present to take part in the joyous occasion.

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The University of Gondar is one of the oldest universities in the country. Its establishment in 1954 because of the Malaria outbreak that infected the Dembya woreda was a start of something special for the medical field. UoG had its roots in medical health.

Ever since its foundation, UoG has graduated countless students in various fields throughout the university’s many disciplines. This year alone over 6,000 students have graduated and are ready to enter into the private and public sectors to contribute to the sustainable growth of the country.

The president of the University spoke of the significance of the day. “I am truly glad to be a part of this event with you,” he said. He also expressed that the University of Gondar had been very connected with medicine for a long time and it has been a long-standing relationship. “When our University was created because of the epidemic around Gondar, it was the medical field that spawned the training college that focused on health,” he said. Now UoG can be seen teaching and training medical professionals that will be our doctors of tomorrow.

Decades ago, in its inception, there were 3 programs that trained 50 health personnel in the art of medical officer, community nursing and area sanitary worker. Now the college has blossomed to 52 postgraduate and specialty programs along with 20 undergraduate programs.

The guest of honor Dr. Kebede Worku, the state minister of the federal Ministry of Health spoke of the hard work that awaits the students. In his speech he made it clear that the strenuous profession of being a doctor holds great responsibility. The State Minister reflected on his own experience as a doctor. He stressed that in their six years of learning they may have experienced much stress and long nights but in their next chapter they must use what they’ve learned to make a difference.

The atmosphere of the event was fun to be around. With people dancing and having a good time it was clear that the students were pleased by the expressions of their delighted faces. Cultural dancers came to the floor and brought the venue to an exciting phase. Parents, friends, and loved ones of the graduates took part and danced until the entertainment ended.

Once the festivities ended the newly appointed doctors took a sacred oath to finalize their transition into the medical arena. Subsequently, a ceremonial handing over of the degrees and rewarding of medals for the top scorers took place. From the looks of it the University of Gondar will play a crucial role in the lives of many by producing such capable and selfless individuals to contribute to the lives of the Ethiopian people. The College of Medicine and Health Sciences graduated 207 students this year.

By Samuel Malede| Public and International Relations Directorate