The Head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU), Brig Gen Henry Isoke, has urged nursing and midwifery students to uphold patriotism, integrity, and accountability as powerful tools in the fight against corruption.
Brig Gen Isoke made the call during an interactive engagement with 404 staff and students of Jinja School of Nursing and Midwifery, who are undergoing Patriotism and Mindset Change Training organized by the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC) Uganda.
He was received at the institution by Mebra Mulabiza the Principal of Jinja School of Nursing and Midwifery; Madina Zalwango, Principal Officer in charge of Higher Institutions, NSPC; and Zawayo Waiswa, Patriotism Coordinator for Iganga District.
Addressing the students, Brig Gen Isoke emphasized that patriotism in the health sector must go beyond words to become a daily practice rooted in discipline, empathy, teamwork, and integrity in serving patients.
He emphasized that true patriotism is demonstrated through integrity and dedication in daily service, aligning with President Museveni’s message that every citizen has a role to play in fighting corruption.
“Every honest act of service is an expression of patriotism. Stand against corruption wherever you are, and safeguard what is rightfully yours,” Brig Gen Isoke said.
The SHACU Head reminded the medical trainees that corruption begins with individual choices and called for a mindset transformation among health workers to uphold values of accountability, stewardship, and professionalism in their careers.
While acknowledging persistent reports of corruption in some government institutions, including the health sector, Brig Gen Isoke revealed that the government has made notable progress in improving healthcare delivery; such as expanding ICU capacity, reducing maternal deaths, and cutting mother-to-child HIV transmission and mortality rates.
He warned that corruption in healthcare does not just steal medicine, it steals lives and the future of our nation, urging the student nurses and midwives to become agents of change once they join the workforce.
“Every act of corruption in healthcare costs lives and the future of our nation. Be the change when you serve,” he advised.
The SHACU Head also praised Hellen Seku, the Commissioner of the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps, and her team for their ongoing efforts to promote patriotism among Uganda’s youth.
Brig Gen Isoke’s engagement with the students highlighted the critical role of young health professionals in shaping Uganda’s future.
By embracing integrity, accountability, and a spirit of service, the next generation of nurses and midwives can become powerful agents of change, ensuring that patriotism is not just an ideal, but a daily practice that protects lives, strengthens the health sector, and contributes to the nation’s development.
