Gulu University School of Medicine

Gulu University School of Medicine (GUSM), also known as the Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, is the medical school of Gulu University, one of the public universities in Uganda. It is one of the institutions that contribute to the healthcare workforce in the country, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programs in the medical and health sciences.

History

Gulu University School of Medicine was established in 2004, in response to the need for more medical professionals in Uganda, particularly in the northern region, which has been adversely affected by decades of civil conflicts. The establishment of the medical school was part of the broader strategy to improve healthcare access and quality in the region, by training healthcare professionals within their community.

Location

The school is located in Gulu, a city in the Northern Region of Uganda. It is situated within the main campus of Gulu University, which is approximately 340 kilometers, by road, north of Kampala, Uganda's capital and largest city. The geographical coordinates of the school are: 02°46'54.0"N, 32°18'03.0"E.

Programs

Gulu University School of Medicine offers a range of programs aimed at addressing the various needs of the healthcare sector in Uganda and beyond. These include:

• Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB)
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSc Nursing)
• Bachelor of Science in Midwifery (BSc Midwifery)
• Master of Medicine (MMed) in various specialties, such as Surgery, Pediatrics, and Obstetrics & Gynecology
• Master of Public Health (MPH)

Admission

Admission to the Gulu University School of Medicine is highly competitive, with candidates required to have excellent grades in their high school leaving examinations, particularly in science subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics. For postgraduate programs, a relevant undergraduate degree and professional experience in the healthcare field are necessary.

Facilities

The school boasts of modern teaching and research facilities, including laboratories, lecture halls, and a library equipped with medical books, journals, and electronic resources. It is also affiliated with several hospitals in the region, such as Gulu Regional Referral Hospital, which serve as teaching and clinical practice sites for the students.

Research and Partnerships

Gulu University School of Medicine is involved in various research activities, focusing on health issues prevalent in the Northern Region of Uganda and the country at large. These include infectious diseases, maternal and child health, and non-communicable diseases. The school collaborates with local and international institutions to enhance its research capacity and impact.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite its achievements, Gulu University School of Medicine faces challenges such as limited funding, the need for more teaching staff, and the requirement to expand its facilities to accommodate the growing number of students. The school is committed to overcoming these challenges through strategic planning, resource mobilization, and strengthening its partnerships.

See Also

• List of medical schools in Uganda
• Education in Uganda
• Health in Uganda

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