Kabale University Medical Students Shine at Global Surgery Day Celebrations in Rwanda

Butaro, Rwanda | May 24, 2025 — Kabale University proudly joined other leading medical institutions from East Africa at the Global Surgery Day celebrations hosted by the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) in Butaro, Rwanda. Themed “Bridging the Gap: Medical Students as Catalysts for Global Surgical Equity,” the event underscored the critical role of medical students in transforming global surgical care.

Representing Kabale University was a dedicated team from the Kabale University Surgical Society, including Ampumuza James, Bwire Daniel (Chairperson), Arnold Asingya Bwambale, and Nakatude Lillian Caroline. Their participation highlighted not only the University’s growing reputation in medical education but also the outstanding progress made by the student-led Surgical Society.

The day commenced with a keynote address by Dr. Ulrick Sidney Kanmounye, Co-Founder of Global Health Unfiltered, who inspired attendees to become active contributors to global surgical equity through research and skill-building. His message set a powerful tone for a day filled with learning, competition, and collaboration.

Despite being only 11 months old, the Kabale University Surgical Society showcased remarkable achievements. Among its milestones were two unique publications that earned commendations from guests and panelists, reaffirming the society’s commitment to enhancing surgical education and advocacy.

The team demonstrated surgical competence during the highly anticipated Surgical Olympics a competitive, hands-on session that tested participants’ technical skills. Their performance reflected the rigorous training and dedication nurtured at Kabale University.

In a compelling inter-university debate, Ampumuza James led a cross-border team of delegates from Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda to victory. The team defended the motion: “This House Believes that investing in district-level surgical care is more critical to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in East Africa than expanding specialized services in tertiary hospitals.” Their win underscored their depth of understanding and persuasive communication on pressing health equity issues.

The mentorship panel, led by Prof. Barnabas Alayande, was a highlight of the day. Delegates gained practical insights on building meaningful mentor-mentee relationships knowledge that will serve them well as they chart their professional paths.

The event also provided a vibrant platform for networking. Kabale University delegates engaged with fellow medical students from across East Africa, including members of the Kenya Surgical Society, Makerere University Surgical Society, Busitema Surgical Society, University of Rwanda Surgical Society, and the host, Intare Surgical Interest Group at UGHE. These connections lay the groundwork for future collaborations in surgical research, education, and outreach.

The Kabale University Surgical Society extends sincere appreciation to its patron, Dr. Mugarura Robert, whose steadfast mentorship and support were instrumental in preparing the team for this milestone event. His guidance continues to inspire the next generation of surgeons at Kabale University.

Kabale University’s participation in the Global Surgery Day celebrations reaffirms its commitment to nurturing well-rounded, globally aware health professionals. Through initiative, excellence, and collaboration, the University’s students are helping to bridge the surgical care gap not just in Uganda, but across the region and beyond.