The inauguration ceremony of the school located in Masoro, Gasabo district was attended by government officials, representatives from public and private institutions as well as regional representatives of the Adventist Church. <\/p>\n
Accompanied by First Lady Jeannette Kagame, the President inaugurated the school along with the World leader of the Adventist Church, Dr. Ted Wilson.<\/p>\n
ASOME was launched shortly after the Adventist Church celebrated 100 years anniversary in Rwanda in a ceremony that took place on 31st August 2019. <\/p>\n
As he inaugurated the school, President Kagame lauded the church\u2019s contribution to national development. <\/p>\n
\u201cIt gives me great pleasure to join you today, for the inauguration of the School of Medicine of the Adventist University of East-Central Africa. Congratulations on this milestone which is a most valuable addition to Rwanda\u2019s education and health system,\u201d he said. <\/p>\n
Kagame saluted the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Rwanda for marking one hundred years of serving the spiritual and social needs of Rwandans noting that the Church has been a valued partner of Government in the provision of healthcare and education. <\/p>\n
\u201cA century of Adventist activity in Rwanda has demonstrated the positive impact of shared vision and good collaboration. By fulfilling your pledge to establish a medical school serving East and Central Africa, you have reaffirmed your commitment to a productive partnership that benefits not only Rwanda but the entire region. This is very much appreciated,\u201d he noted. <\/p>\n
The President emphasized that the achievement celebrated is in tune with Rwanda\u2019s goals where education, particularly in science and technology, as well as good affordable healthcare are the foundation of the well-being and prosperity of Rwandans. <\/p>\n
He stressed that it requires qualified professionals, trained in high-quality universities such as ASOME, which are equipped with the latest technology.<\/p>\n
\u201cMedical students at this school will also benefit from the extensive network of Adventist institutions around the world, as well as association with a brand that stands for excellence. AUCA is, therefore, contributing to a brighter future for the people of our country and region. Thank you for sharing our vision, having faith in Rwanda\u2019s future and accompanying us on our journey of national transformation,\u201d said Kagame. <\/p>\n
Dr. Blasious Ruguri, the president of the General Conference for East-Central Africa region of the Adventist Church thanked President Kagame\u2019s efforts to make the construction of the school possible. <\/p>\n
\u201cWe chose Rwanda as the best place to establish a school of medicine. EAC students are set to benefit from high-quality education to attend to patients in the region,\u201d he highlighted. <\/p>\n
He said that the church needs land for expansion of activities including the construction of hospital facilitating students during internships. <\/p>\n
President Kagame promised infrastructural support to ASOME. <\/p>\n
\u201cThe Government will play its part by continuing to invest in infrastructure, vocational skills, and a conducive policy environment. We are aware of the immeasurable value of higher education and good health, accompanied by a meaningful spiritual life. We will find land, as well as money to add to what is already there. I think we all need this befitting hospital sooner rather than later. We will do it,\u201d he said. <\/p>\n
\u201cWhen we put our talents and specialized knowledge at the service of others, the gift of education is multiplied many times over. That is what the doctors trained here are expected to do,\u201d added Kagame. <\/p>\n
The first phase of the school took US$100 million for construction activities raised from over 25 million Adventist Church followers. Each contributed US$2. <\/p>\n
The Adventist Church world leader, Dr. Ted Wilson said the school is a great milestone in the health sector. <\/p>\n
ASOME will offer laboratory, midwifery, and surgery among other programs. It is expected to start with 55 students.
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