During the general assembly of all medical students in the country, held in Kabale, on Saturday 12th October, KIU's Ssenkidu William, a fourth-year medical student from Ishaka, became the 17th President of the Federation of Uganda Medical Students Association (FUMSA).

Under the themes, Neonatal and maternal health in the changing health system in Uganda, the assembly of medical students held their annual elections to usher in new leaders for the upcoming year.

Setting the pace for KIU

After a series of campaigns, Ssenkidu emerged victorious in a tightly contested race for president, hence becoming, the first-ever FUMSA president from Kampala International University.

Ssekindu's record of advocacy, participation in international collaborations and charismatic style of leadership helped him persuade a tough crowd of future doctor's into choosing him as their leader for the next 12 months.

"I've always dreamt of being a good leader. But to lead the next generation of doctors is something that I'm extremely proud of. It's definitely a defining moment in my life."

Ssekidu acknowledged.

The future of healthcare in Uganda

Speaking of the future of healthcare in Uganda, part of Ssenkidu's goal during his tenure as a leader is to increase the level of advocacy with regards to curriculum development, which he sees as very crucial.

"But more importantly, it's the work ahead of me that matters. The future of healthcare in this country is a very critical mission. My goal is to work for better social accountability and increasing the level of advocacy concerning curriculum development. Additionally, I'm looking at building vehicles for forward-movement in the area of partnerships between our student body and the non-profit and government sectors. It's quite a huge challenge, but I'm excited."

Ssenkidu described.

He went on to thank, the DVC Western Campus, Professor Patrick Kyamanywa, the Executive Director of the KIU Teaching Hospital, Professor Robinson Ssebuufu. He also thanked the BOT for their strong and visionary leadership which has so far inspired him.

Last but not least, he thanked the medical student fraternity for trusting him with leadership. "If it wasn't for them, this would not be possible."

Ssenkidu said thankfully.