By Shawn Kimuli

KIU, Western Campus - Omara Tonny, a fifth-year Bachelor of Pharmacy student from Kampala International University (KIU), recently returned from an outstanding academic exchange program in Indonesia. Sponsored by the University of Indonesia’s Faculty of Pharmacy under the UI CREATE program, Omara represented Uganda and KIU, bringing international recognition to KIU’s advanced healthcare education and its commitment to training highly skilled professionals.

The University of Indonesia, one of Asia’s top academic institutions, conducted a six-week training program from July 1st to August 24th, 2024, focused on Phytomedicine of Indonesian Traditional Medicines, attracting students from around the globe. Omara excelled in the program, earning a place as one of the top two participants selected for an exclusive, fully sponsored study tour across Indonesia from October 19th - 28th, 2024 . This achievement highlights his dedication and the quality education and comprehensive training provided by KIU, which equips students to thrive in global academic environments. “Being chosen as one of the top participants was an incredible honour and a testament to the preparation, I received from KIU,” Omara remarked.

During the program, Omara visited state-of-the-art laboratories, engaged with leading faculty, and explored the heritage of Indonesian traditional medicine. His experience included academic sessions at the University of Indonesia, industrial visits, and cultural exchanges. “This experience has profoundly deepened my understanding of phytomedicine and reinforced my commitment to healthcare,” he shared, crediting his foundational knowledge to KIU’s rigorous training environment that prepares students for real-world challenges.

With its modern infrastructure and comprehensive curriculum, Kampala International University has built a robust pharmacy education program. Guided by visionary leadership, KIU has consistently advanced healthcare education, preparing students to excel in an increasingly competitive healthcare landscape. KIU’s pharmacy programs emphasize theoretical knowledge and practical skills, equipping students with the competencies to handle complex medical issues and adapt to diverse healthcare settings. The support of KIU’s leadership underscores the institution’s dedication to fostering transformative learning experiences.

The leadership at KIU has been pivotal in ensuring its healthcare programs remain at the forefront of education in Uganda. KIU’s vision extends beyond academic excellence, creating an environment where students can excel academically and make meaningful contributions to healthcare on a global scale. Through expanding international partnerships, KIU empowers students to become leaders in their respective fields. “KIU has fostered an environment where innovation thrives,” Omara reflected, acknowledging the vital role KIU’s leadership plays in providing opportunities for students to succeed locally and internationally.

Throughout the program, Omara proudly represented KIU, sharing insights into African traditional medicine and forming meaningful connections with peers and experts. His participation included hands-on lab sessions, where he explored pharmacognosy and learned advanced techniques in bioactive compound extraction. “The practical sessions were invaluable,” he said. “I was able to compare African medicinal practices with Indonesian methods, fostering a dynamic exchange of knowledge and setting the stage for potential collaborative research.”

KIU’s strength in healthcare education is rooted in its commitment to excellence and hands-on, patient-centred training. The university’s innovative methods ensure that graduates, like Omara, are knowledgeable and globally competitive. KIU’s programs cultivate a holistic approach to healthcare by integrating modern healthcare practices with traditional knowledge.

Omara’s experience has opened new opportunities for collaboration between Kampala International University and institutions in Indonesia, further strengthening KIU’s status as a hub for international education. Omara is eager to share the skills and insights he gained with his peers, faculty, and the KIU community. “I look forward to sharing what I’ve learned with my peers, faculty, and everyone at KIU,” he said, adding, “I believe this experience has been transformative for me and will benefit KIU for years to come.”

Through its robust healthcare programs and international engagements, KIU remains dedicated to producing future leaders in healthcare and other disciplines. Omara’s success in Indonesia highlights the university’s mission to foster an environment of excellence, innovation, and cross-cultural learning—a commitment that will continue to drive KIU’s global impact in the years ahead.