By Jamillah Oluka.
KAMPALA: Dr. Isabella Epiu, aged 37, has etched her name into history as the first female Anaesthesiologist holding a PhD in East Africa, marking a significant milestone in the medical field across the region.
Her academic journey culminated in the achievement of a PhD in Medicine, specializing in Neuro-Respiratory Physiology and Health Economics from the University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia.
Her expertise extends to various critical medical domains, encompassing anaesthesia, critical care medicine, emergency care medicine, intensive care medicine, and pain management.
During a celebratory event at Kololo Independence Ground, President Yoweri Museveni, represented by Vice President Jessica Alupo, commended Dr. Epiu’s remarkable dedication, lauding her as a source of national pride and an exemplar of diligence, discipline, and hard work.
Expressing gratitude to her parents, guardians, sponsors, and the community of Ngora district for their unwavering support, President Museveni highlighted the pivotal role of such collective encouragement in fostering her success.
Citing her numerous accolades, including awards from renowned global medical societies and institutions, President Museveni underscored the exceptional research contributions made by Dr. Epiu, noting her commitment to advancing medical knowledge.
Referencing Psalms 116:12-13, President Museveni extolled Dr. Epiu for her accomplishments, framing her graduation as a moment of gratitude and acknowledgment of divine wisdom.
In his address, President Museveni emphasized the government’s dedication to educational advancements, citing Dr. Epiu’s achievement as a testament to the country’s commitment to fostering a robust academic environment.
Dr. Epiu’s father, Dr. Pastor Richard Honorat Epiu, voiced concerns about brain drain from the continent, stressing the importance of nurturing talent within Africa for sustainable development.
Attributing her achievements to divine intervention, Dr. Epiu credited her success to perseverance despite challenges faced as a girl child, encouraging youth to aspire for excellence beyond limitations.
Acknowledging the support received from governmental and international institutions, Dr. Epiu highlighted the critical need to fortify healthcare systems, particularly in the realm of surgical anaesthesia, underscoring the scarcity of resources in the East African region.
Advocating for partnerships and collaborations with local and international entities, Dr. Epiu outlined her vision to establish a center of excellence for research and training, aiming to address critical deficiencies in surgical care through technological advancements and telemedicine.
With a proposed budget of $120 million, Dr. Epiu envisions leveraging advanced technology and specialized training to reduce reliance on international medical care, thereby curbing medical tourism and bolstering Uganda’s healthcare capabilities.
Dr. Epiu’s groundbreaking accomplishments stand as a testament to perseverance, innovation, and the potential for transformative change within the healthcare landscape of East Africa.