By Isaac Akugizibwe

Trinity Okello, one of the candidates for KIU’s 31st graduation ceremony, says he is thrilled to be only days away from achieving his lifelong dream of becoming a nurse. He attributes the milestone to dedication, perseverance, and a deep passion for healthcare.

“Nursing resonated with me because of its unique blend of science, empathy and human connection,” Okello said, adding, “The desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives is what led me to pursue a Bachelor of Nursing Science”.

Okello believes nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system, providing not just medical care but also emotional support, education and advocacy.

“Nursing is a noble profession that embodies the art of caring, compassion and dedication,” he said.

Proud and excited to be among the graduands, Okello is ready to begin the next phase of his journey, delivering quality healthcare and making a positive impact in his community.

“I am excited to embark on my nursing career and contribute to the well-being of individuals and families in need,” Okello added.

He also said he chose KIU for its reputable medical programs and its consistent ranking as the best private university in East Africa.

“Kampala International University’s nursing program stood out because of its comprehensive curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical skills,” Okello noted.

“The dedication of the instructors who mentor and guide students was also a key factor,” he added.

Beyond the classroom, Okello’s university experience was shaped significantly by extracurricular activities, his role as president of the KIU Western Campus Debate Club. “This was one of the most defining moments of my university life,” he emphasized, adding, “The club trained and mentored many students, while also fostering critical thinking, research and communication skills.

“Leading the Debate club helped me build a cohesive team and mentor others who went on to excel in both academic and competitive arenas.”

He credits this leadership experience with shaping his character and instilling valuable skills that he will carry into his professional life.

“My time at KIU has been transformative and I have grown into a competent and compassionate health professional. The university’s emphasis on evidence-based practice, critical thinking and holistic care has given me valuable insight into different approaches to patient care,” Okello said.

In addition to his academic and leadership achievements, Okello cherishes cultural and social events at the university. Participating in the annual Cultural Gala where he showcased traditional dance from his heritage stands out as a highlight. He also fondly remembers the Interfaculty Debate Championship in 2023 and his clinical ward rounds, which reinforced his passion for hands-on patient care.

But his journey was not without its challenges. Like many students, he faced difficulties adjusting to a new environment, financial constraints and the demanding balance of academics with extracurricular leadership.

“I overcame these challenges by staying open-minded and seeking guidance from others,” he said.

“I took part-time jobs and applied for scholarships to ease financial burdens. I also created a schedule and learned to delegate tasks to maintain a balance between my studies and leadership responsibilities,” Okello added, noting that these strategies helped him stay focused, grow personally and ultimately succeed both academically and socially.

As KIU marks 25 years of academic excellence, Okello has extended a message of gratitude and encouragement to the university’s community.

“I want to congratulate the administration, staff and alumni on this remarkable milestone,” he said. “KIU has built a legacy of innovation, excellence and transformative leadership. Its emphasis on research and critical thinking continues to prepare students to thrive in their careers and communities.”

To fellow students, especially those in nursing, engineering and other demanding fields, Okello offered heartfelt advice: “Remain true to yourselves. Do not lie about your capabilities or aspirations. Use every experience, good or bad as a learning platform. Do not be discouraged by past failures. Instead, use them as springboards to new opportunities.”

As he prepares to enter the professional world, Okello remains committed to embodying the spirit of service that first drew him to nursing: compassion, empathy and a drive to make a meaningful difference.