Prof. Joel Okullo Odom, the chairperson of the Uganda Medical & Dental Practitioners Council (UMDPC), expressed concerns about key oversights in the recent court ruling involving King Ceasor University.
While acknowledging the importance of respecting the rule of law, Prof. Okullo emphasized that certain critical aspects were neglected in the decision.
Highlighting the paramount role of public trust in the medical profession, Prof. Okullo warned that the ruling could undermine confidence, causing significant damage to the reputation of the profession.
In August, UMDPC denied internship approval to a group of medical graduates from King Ceasor University, prompting them to seek a fair judgment from the High Court.
In response, Hon. Justice Musa Sekaana ruled that the students have the right to be deployed, instructing the council to submit their names for internship placements.
Prof. Okullo strongly contested this decision, citing various irregularities and asserting, “We cannot allow a University that produces inadequately trained students on our watch.”
During a visit to King Ceasor University, UMDPC identified deficiencies in numbers, infrastructure, and training. Despite warnings, the university continued to enroll more students, leading UMDPC to reject internship approval due to fraudulent practices in their recruitment process.
Prof. Odom appealed to the Attorney General for assistance in clarifying their position, emphasizing their commitment to upholding duties outlined in the Act.
In the interest of safeguarding the medical profession, UMDPC outlined two plans: appealing the ruling and amending their Act for more efficient operation.
Established under the Act of Parliament, UMDPC holds the responsibility of licensing, monitoring, and regulating the practice of medicine and dentistry in the country. The organization’s mandate encompasses the regulation of both practitioners and the practices within which they operate.