The Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, has strongly contradicted a recent statement made by the Ministry of Finance regarding the disbursement of 22.9 billion Shillings for the payment and deployment of 1,900 medical interns.
This discrepancy between the two ministries has raised concerns about the allocation of funds and the potential impact on the healthcare sector.
Dr Aceng emphasized that her ministry had not received the promised funds from the Ministry of Finance. She expressed her disappointment and concern about the lack of financial support for medical interns, whose crucial roles are essential in the delivery of healthcare services across the country.
For 1901 interns, we require Shs80.4bn to deploy them and out of that money, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development gave us Shs8bn for interns and Shs2bn for senior house officers. So we are not able to deploy [interns] until we are sure that the Shs80.4bn will be provided – said Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Minister of Health.
The disagreement between the two ministries has sparked confusion and raised questions about the financial management and coordination within the government. Dr. Aceng called for urgent action to resolve the issue, as the absence of funding could potentially disrupt the training and deployment of medical interns, leading to a shortage of healthcare professionals in various medical facilities.
The situation has prompted concerns among medical professionals, who fear that the dispute between the two ministries may adversely affect the already strained healthcare system. Medical interns play a vital role in providing essential services to communities, especially in rural areas where access to healthcare is limited
The Speaker of Parliament Annet Anita Among has also urged the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development (@mofpedU) to provide an update to Parliament regarding the long overdue promise to settle arrears owed to 1,900 interns. The Speaker emphasized the importance of the government fulfilling its commitment in this matter.
“It’s crucial for the Government to fulfill this commitment and also plan for the upcoming 4,000 interns who will soon embark on their internships post-graduation,” said speaker Among.
The arrears owed to the interns have been a matter of concern, as these individuals have dedicated their time and efforts to contribute to various sectors of the economy. The timely settlement of these arrears is crucial not only to fulfill the government’s promise but also to support the financial well-being of the interns.
Additionally, the Speaker has emphasized the need for the government to plan for the future influx of interns. Approximately 4,000 interns are expected to embark on their internships following their graduation. Planning for these upcoming internships is essential to ensure a smooth transition for the interns and provide them with valuable learning opportunities.
Early this week. Medical interned led by former President of the Uganda Medical Association (UMA) Dr. Ekwaru Obuku accompanied them as they lodged in a petition through the speaker Hon. Anita Among demanding deployment.
The Speaker said that the country can not promote scientists as they are seated home and she also alluded to have encountered various pre-medical interns, one of which had spent three years without deployment. She then urged the Ministry of health and Ministry of finance and planning to forge away out of this as early as possible.
Last month ago, medical interns stormed parliament but they were arrested by the police and put into police custody but speaker Among ordered for their release and met the leadership as she promised to handle their matter.
In the last budget reading, the issue of medical interns’ pay was allocated a budget amidst skepticism on whether it will be a priority when the releasing of the money begins.
As the controversy unfolds, stakeholders, including healthcare professionals and the public, are eagerly awaiting an explanation from the Ministry of Finance regarding the delayed funding and seeking reassurance that the issue will be resolved promptly.
Internships play a vital role in shaping the careers of young professionals, offering practical experience and the chance to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. By fulfilling the commitment to settle arrears owed to current interns and effectively planning for future internships, the government can demonstrate its commitment to supporting the growth and development of its workforce.
