By Makur Adut

Rumbek Health Science Institute (RHSI) has graduated its fourth cohort of 85 students, who graduated with diploma certificates in four health disciplines. The graduates include 46 males and 39 females, trained in Midwifery (24), Nursing (23), Clinical Medicine and Public Health (29), and Medical Laboratory (8).

Speaking during the graduation ceremony, the Principal of RHSI, Deng Makur Mabeny, said the institute was established to train mid-level health cadres under four key pillars; nursing, midwifery, clinical medicine and public health, and medical laboratory sciences.

He noted that the institute has so far produced 485 health workers who are now serving communities across Lakes State and neighboring states.

“The people we are training here are getting jobs and helping the community. In the past, sick people were carried using blankets and local structures. But now, with the support of our partners UNFPA and CUAMM International in collaboration with the State Ministry of Health, health services have greatly improved,” he said.

Mabeny added that RHSI is producing critical human resources for the health sector across South Sudan. He called on state authorities and national and international NGOs to provide employment opportunities for the new graduates.

“Our mid-level cadres are now staffing PHCCs and county hospitals in remote areas such as Rumbek North, Malou-Pech, Tiaptiap, Wulu, Awerial, and Yirol East. This is a great achievement, but more support is needed to fill the remaining gaps,” he said.

He also encouraged graduates to be innovative and consider self-employment options such as establishing drug shops and pharmacies if formal jobs are limited.

“Job creation also depends on individual initiative. You have the knowledge and skills, use them. Do not sit idle after acquiring your training,” he advised.

Meanwhile, Dr. Achier Mou, Director General for Training and Professional Development at the National Ministry of Health, urged graduates to continue updating their knowledge using the internet and professional development opportunities.

He emphasized on the need for the County Health Departments, State Ministry of Health, and National Ministry of Health to recruit and continuously retrain the new health workers.

“You should actively seek employment by visiting health departments and facilities. Once employed, serve your people professionally,” he said.

Dr. Rita Mwanyumba, CUAMM Lot 12 Coordinator, commended the national government for its commitment to strengthening the health system through investment in institutions like RHSI.

She also acknowledged the support of partners, lecturers, tutors, and parents, noting that their dedication and sacrifices contributed to the success of the graduates.

“What we witness today is the harvest of the seeds planted with faith and sacrifice. Dedication alone is not enough in health care—you must also serve with compassion,” she said.

One of the graduates, Dickson Pions Omana from the Department of Clinical Medicine and Public Health, described the graduation as a major milestone despite the challenges faced during training.

“It has not been easy due to the difficult conditions in the country, but with God’s help and the support of our parents and partners, we have achieved our goal,” he said.

He appreciated CUAMM for supporting the institute, particularly in the nursing and midwifery programs.