Oronon Pius, a determined Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) student from Uganda, will be donning his cap and gown at AKU's Convocation in February 2025. His journey, from uncertainty to confident nurse, is proof of the importance of community support, determination, and the opportunities offered by AKU.
Oronon's path to nursing wasn't always clear. Initially struggling to gain admission to medical school, Oronon was unsure of his next step when a chance meeting with Johnson, a fellow Ugandan who had graduated from AKU's BScN programme, changed his course. "I had been struggling with medical school admissions for a while, and I wasn't sure what to do next. But my friend's encouragement was exactly what I needed," he recalls.
Financial obstacles nearly kept Oronon from applying, but Johnson's generosity in covering his application fee helped pave the way for Oronon to start a new chapter at AKU. “I was able to get the opportunity I needed, and that made all the difference," he says.
At AKU, Oronon found a welcoming and supportive community. "The faculty were incredibly friendly, accommodating, and approachable. If I had any doubts, I never hesitated to ask for help," he shares. This environment allowed him to thrive, not just academically, but personally.
A highlight of Oronon's academic journey was his participation in the WACE Global Challenge, where he worked with peers from diverse countries including Botswana, Kenya, Uganda, and the United States. “We were able to learn from each other and approach challenges from various perspectives. It broadened my view of global healthcare," he says.
Oronon's experience was further enriched when he was selected for the prestigious Provost Experiential Learning Fund (PELF). This award allowed him to travel to Nigeria in November 2024, for 38th Federation of African Medical Students Association General Assembly 2024) - an eye-opening experience that left a lasting impact. "It was my first time flying, and I was exposed to so many new things. It was like learning in ways I had never imagined," he reflects.
Despite the hurdles, Oronon remained committed to his education and his dream of becoming a nurse. As he prepares for graduation, Oronon looks forward to making a difference in the healthcare sector. "I'm ready to give back, to serve others, and to continue learning as I step into the professional world," he says.
Reflecting on his time at AKU, Oronon's story is one of community support, perseverance, and personal growth. He is not just graduating with a nursing degree; he is stepping into the world as a compassionate and knowledgeable healthcare professional ready to make a lasting impact.
As he walks across the stage to receive his degree in February 2025, Oronon will celebrate not just his achievement, but also the friendships, experiences, and community that have shaped him into the nurse he is today.
