Master’s Program Offers Insight into Uganda’s Health-Care System

Noor Qureshi, a recent BSc graduate from Western University, delved into Uganda’s health-care landscape through the Master of Health Sciences (MHSc) in Global Health Systems program. Designed by Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry and the Faculty of Health Sciences, this intensive one-year program provides a unique opportunity for students to explore global health challenges in resource-limited communities.

Qureshi’s journey began with a three-week field school across Uganda, where she and her peers immersed themselves in various health-care settings, from rural clinics to specialized facilities like the Makerere University School of Dentistry and mental health hospitals. This firsthand experience was complemented by a two-month internship with local organizations, including the Barbara Kemigisa Foundation, focusing on youth with HIV/AIDS.

Reflecting on her experience, Qureshi emphasized the transformative impact of learning directly from community members and health-care practitioners. “Witnessing the resilience of these communities and their innovative approaches to health care was eye-opening,” she shared. “It’s not just about understanding the system but also learning from their holistic approach to wellness.”

The program’s partnership with Makerere University and other local institutions enhances educational depth, providing insights into cultural, economic, and political determinants of health. For Qureshi, who will pursue medical school at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry next year, this comprehensive perspective is invaluable.

“The MHSc program has broadened my understanding of global health,” Qureshi noted. “It’s not only prepared me for medical school but has also instilled a passion for addressing health disparities worldwide.”

As Western University continues to strengthen its global health initiatives, collaborations like these underscore the importance of experiential learning in shaping future health-care leaders.

https://missuperior.com/2024/07/masters-program-offers-insight-into-ugandas-health-care-system/