A major concern has been raised by a leading professional organization regarding the recent decision to abolish internships for nurses and midwives. The Association of Graduate Nurses and Midwives of Uganda (AGNMU) has expressed its disapproval of the move, highlighting potential negative impacts on training outcomes and overall competency of new graduates.
In a statement released on July 30, 2024, AGNMU, which represents around 3,000 professionals with qualifications ranging from bachelor’s to doctoral levels, criticized the decision. The association argued that the proposal to end internships was made hastily without sufficient consultation with key stakeholders, including nurses and midwives.
The internship program, according to AGNMU, plays a crucial role in ensuring that new nurses and midwives develop the necessary skills and confidence to provide effective and safe patient care. The program is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in a clinical setting.
Dan Muramuzi, the executive secretary of AGNMU, signed the statement, which was directed to the chairperson of the Inter-Ministerial Standing Coordination Committee. This committee includes the ministers of education and health, who are responsible for overseeing educational and professional standards in the healthcare sector.
In the statement, AGNMU urged the committee to reconsider its decision and emphasized the importance of maintaining the internship program. The association has provided a detailed position paper outlining their concerns and recommendations.
