Spearheading something for it to spring up is a wonder to take extraordinary pride in, and this is the circumstance with the ten dentistry moves on from the University of Rwanda. The college graduated its own top of the line of dental specialists, something which will go far in influencing oral medicinal services in Rwanda to be in a superior position than it is presently.
It is an astounding background which gives Rwanda something to grin about, something to take pride in. It is a Rwandan example of overcoming adversity. The triumphs of Rwanda are by and large all around reported, and this is the most recent element to such a variety of the victories. This initially graduating class of dental specialists is a tremendous advance for the general welfare of the country’s oral wellbeing later on.
As it stands at this moment, Rwanda being a nation of about 12 million people, is being served by 40 dental practitioners as it were. The expansion of these ten dental practitioners is a huge walk in reducing the weight that the as of now rehearsing dental practitioners encounter. The atmosphere of progress originating from this is something to savor for Rwanda, as well as for the entire continent. It is something honourable to imitate.
It becomes more evident when one takes it from the perspective of how the university partnered with Harvard University so that this ambitious project would come to fruition. Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM) has been a leading partner in this project since the conception of the idea from as far back as 2011.
Now finally, the effort to launch the new dental school and bachelor of dental surgery degree program at the University of Rwanda has borne some fruits. This achievement is a historic moment for Rwanda, and Donna Hackley, HSDM instructor in oral health policy and epidemiology was more than delighted to see something finally come out from such hard work.
“It is an incredible blessing to be part of this historic moment in Rwanda. It is some of the most challenging, enjoyable, and rewarding work I’ve ever done,” Hackley said.
The project commenced about seven and a half years ago through the concerted efforts of Partners In Health (PIH), the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), and the Rwandan ministries of health and education. Through their combined efforts, these entities launched the Rwanda Human Resources for Health (HRH) Program, a program designed to push forth medical education and improve health care delivery systems in the country.
“Given the connection of oral health to overall health, the rise of noncommunicable diseases, and the potential for preventive care to mitigate disease, it was critical that dentistry be included in the program,” said Jane Barrow, HSDM associate dean for global and community health.
Dentistry being included in this project was a groundbreaking thing. It was all about starting something new, carving new territory, making history and registering success. And starting something new is not easy, as it is laden with countless obstacles. The dentistry school officially launched in 2013, a five-year program that would result into this success.
The students spent their first two years of training with their medical school classmates at the University of Rwanda’s School of Medicine in Huye before beginning dental training in the capital city of Kigali. They were steadfast in their desire to learn. The inaugural class adopted the nickname “The Pioneerz” and became close friends.
Their hard work and sheer determination have finally paid off and they have something to be proud of, significantly adding to the growth of their country and its oral health. The Pioneerz have the strength to serve their country, and many congratulations to them!
