President Museveni Proposes Private Sponsorship for Medical Interns Amid Funding Shortfall

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has acknowledged the government’s financial challenges in supporting medical interns, suggesting that their initial sponsors during medical school should continue financing their internships. This proposal was made during a lecture to 210 post-medical interns at State House, Entebbe, on August 24, 2024.

“The government has many priorities, including roads and security, and doesn’t have sufficient funds for everything. It’s risky to rely on government money for internships, as it might delay or not come at all,” President Museveni stated. He proposed that the responsibility for funding internships fall on the same individuals or organizations that supported the students through medical school, be it through government loans, scholarships, or private means.

Museveni’s comments come at a time when many medical interns are experiencing delays in receiving government funds. He urged those affected to consider his alternative approach, questioning, “If someone sponsored you for five years, why should they stop now?”

Additionally, the President called for the government to hire more consultants to supervise the medical interns, addressing concerns about insufficient oversight. “The government must ensure enough consultants are available to oversee your training,” he added.

In his lecture, Museveni also provided insights into the origins of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and drew parallels between political leadership and medical diagnosis, stressing the importance of understanding the needs of the people before prescribing solutions.

President Museveni encouraged young doctors to join the military and police forces, promising opportunities in these sectors. He also pledged financial support for those seeking to establish private health facilities, recognizing that government positions cannot accommodate all medical professionals.

Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, the Minister for Presidency, praised the Patriotism Secretariat for its effective training programs, particularly for the post-medical interns at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi. She commended President Museveni for his dedication to the program, noting that his lectures have inspired many participants.

Brig. Gen. Charles Kisembo, Director of NALI, lauded the interns for their commitment and resilience during their training and expressed optimism about their future contributions to the nation. “These young professionals are a testament to the success of our training and the enduring values of patriotism,” he said.