During the graduation ceremony of the second batch comprising seventy-seven students from Rumbek Health Science Institute, the Lakes State government, in the presence of representatives from international and national health partners, and the National Ministry of Health, pledged job opportunities for the graduates.
The cohort includes 18 midwives, 30 clinical medicine practitioners, 32 nurses, and 8 laboratory technicians.
Stephen Mathiang Deng Monydit, the Minister of Cabinet Affairs in Lakes State, announced the state government will support them in getting employment.
“The state government will provide support in terms of employment, whether in the private sector or government,” he said. “The State Ministry of Health adheres to a policy of recruiting qualified individuals recognized by the ministry, avoiding random recruitment. The graduates are urged to commit themselves to serving the people of Lakes State.”
Explaining the critical role of laboratory technicians, he stated that a doctor prescribes based on the data provided by the laboratory technician.
“If the laboratory fails to deliver accurate data, it could lead to wrong prescriptions, potentially resulting in harm or even death,” Minister Mathiang said while emphasizing the critical importance of accuracy in the work of laboratory technicians.
Additionally, he advised graduates against knowingly or unknowingly administering harmful medicine, emphasizing that such actions not only impact individuals but also harm the entire community.
For his part, Deng Makur Mabeny, the Principal of Rumbek Health Sciences Institute (RHSI), explained that the institute which was initially offering certificates from 2005 to 2014, was closed in 2014. It reopened in 2016 with a diploma program under the National Ministry of Health.
He revealed that during his tenure, two batches have successfully graduated.
“Today is a joyous occasion as we have 18 laboratory technicians who have completed their studies with no failures. We also have 32 nurses, all of whom have successfully graduated and contributed to the vibrancy of today’s ceremony,” he disclosed. “Additionally, we have 18 midwives and 30 clinical medicine and public health science students. Unfortunately, 22 did not meet the requirements, and they will undergo supplementary assessments. However, eight students succeeded and are now part of this graduation celebration.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Acier Adup, the representative of the Directorate of Training at the National Ministry of Health, emphasized the importance of quality training for mid-level healthcare professionals.
“The graduates we see today reflect the quality of training we aim for. These mid-level cadres are essential for implementing universal health care and ensuring the quality of care at health facilities,” he said. “All these stakeholders have distinct roles and responsibilities. Graduates, beyond providing quality care, also have a role in contributing to the sustainability of the school and its programs. All graduates need to give back and support the school’s continued success.”
Fr. Dr. Don Dante Carraro, a cardiologist and priest, and the Director of Doctors with Africa CUAMM, thanked the institute’s teaching staff and administrators for successfully training the health workers.
“My gratitude extends from the national to the local health institute and those in charge of the school,” he said. “I am the director of Doctors with Africa based in Italy. I chose to be here today to underscore the importance of this significant day.”
Fr. Dante reiterated CUAMM’s commitment to supporting the Rumbek Health Science Institute and to continue to collaborate with local institutions, professors, teachers, and authorities.
The Acting Director General at the Ministry of Health in Lakes State, Barnaba Bol Amukpiu, urged the graduates to apply their skills to serve.
“This is just the beginning. As you venture into the field, apply the basic knowledge and clinical skills you have acquired,” he advised. “Whether working in hospitals as clinical officers or in nursing roles, remember that practical application is essential.”
One of the nursing graduates, Dhor Madol, said he and his colleagues were very happy to complete their studies and graduate.