The ‘White Coat Ceremony took place on Friday 12th November 2021 at the school’s headquarters in Masoro, bringing together parents, the management, and other representatives from the health sector.

The ceremony was introduced in 1993 by Arnold P. Gold Foundation mu 1993.

During similar events, students are donned with white coats and take oaths to join the medical profession.

The Chancellor of ASOME, Dr. Blasious Ruguri has urged students to concentrate on their studies and pursue the medical profession as a passion, not primarily for the sake of money.

“This profession is a calling from God. You should work assiduously to save people’s lives, not putting forward the thirst for money. Dressing you in this white coat is a step forward, but it should always remind you to take care of patients,” he said.

Dr. Patrick Ndimubanzi, the Executive Secretary of Rwanda Human Resources for Health, has also requested these students to embrace humility and remain devoted to their profession.

“This serves as the beginning of a new journey that requires patience because you are taking a step further towards becoming doctors. It is not only a job but also a calling. You are soon starting courses. So, you need to be prepared mentally, physically, and stay focused,” he said.

“You are set to learn how to take care of patients, those who are in pain and dying. You will learn to listen to your patients, look at them, examine them, and see them with the new eyes of doctors. When patients see you donned with a white coat, they will expect your assistance. So, take care of them with full attention,” he said.

Students have revealed that the white coat is a testament that their dreams are coming true. they pledged to concentrate on studying to contribute as much as possible to the development health sector.

“I am overwhelmed with joy for being donned with the white coat. I have had great ambitions to become a doctor since my childhood. This step is a great success and steps towards realizing my dreams,” said Orla Akariza Rwiyamirira, Vice President of the Student Association.

Alafi Samuel Jino Pere from Sudan, the president of the Student Association, expressed delight for the milestone, highlighting that it has laid the foundation for his future career.

Parents also expressed gratitude for the quality education students are getting from the school.

“I am honored to have brought my child at this university transferred from Makerere. This day has been special to witness how students are imparted with medical skills combined with Godly values. Their skills and trust in God will help them to save patients’ lives,” said Dr. Magaret Ssekidde from Uganda.

Students who received the white coat are from the 2020-2027 intake.

Launched in 2019, with a base in Kigali, ASOME is designed to become a center of excellence in the region, serving eleven countries, including Rwanda, Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda, Somalia, Eritrea, South Sudan, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Djibouti.

Students also took oaths to join the medical profession.

The ceremony took place on Friday 12th November 2021.

Students have pledged to uphold a high standard of professionalism to contribute to the development of the health sector.

The ‘White Coat Ceremony took place on Friday 12th November 2021 at the school’s headquarters in Masoro.