We can make e-health a reality-Rector

The Rector of Kigali Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) has called on all stakeholders in the e-health sector become a global reality.

Friday, May 28, 2010
CALLED ON: Prof. Abraham Atta Ogwu (File photo)

The Rector of Kigali Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) has called on all stakeholders in the e-health sector become a global reality.

Addressing a workshop organised for e-Health Centre of Excellence stakeholders in Kigali yesterday, Prof. Abraham Atta Ogwu told participants that the centre is meant to help improve the health sector in the country.

"The main objective of this workshop is to bring together you as stakeholders in your respective capacities to create awareness that Rwanda has progressed and has become a part of the Global Health Informatics programs”

Ogwu told participants that the e-Health centre will help medical practitioners in Rwanda to always access information regarding the situation of patients, both in urban and in the rural areas.

Speaking to The New Times, Prof Ogwu said "This E-Health Centre of Excellence is meant to help develop the capacity to produce Health Informatics professionals who will be able to go into the healthcare sector countrywide and improve it”

He also revealed that his institution will start offering Masters Degree programs in Health Informatics in September.

The centre has so far been funded by the Rockefeller foundation at a tune of US$0.5m.

The workshop drew participants from Harvard University, Maryland University, National University of Rwanda’s School of Public health and Kigali Health Institute.

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