Sanyu Kiyonga, a distinguished pharmacy graduate from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU), has been recognised for her outstanding academic performance, securing the Academic Excellence Award for Best Portfolio in Hospital Pharmacy Practice-Based Learning with an impressive 81% mark during the School of Pharmacy Oath Taking Ceremony 2024. This prestigious achievement underscores her dedication to the field of pharmacy and her commitment to improving healthcare services.
Kiyonga, who pursued her studies at SMU from 2021 to 2024, has demonstrated an unwavering passion for pharmacy, driven by her profound desire to treat patients and contribute to the advancement of medical care. Having grown up in Uganda, where healthcare infrastructure faces considerable challenges, she developed a deep-seated resolve to make a tangible impact in the field. Her experiential learning journey in hospital pharmacy has solidified her expertise and positioned her as a rising leader in pharmaceutical care.
Reflecting on her achievement, Kiyonga expressed gratitude for the opportunity to refine her skills in a hospital setting. “This recognition is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the support I have received from my lecturers, mentors, and peers at SMU. I am deeply passionate about making a difference in patient care, and this award motivates me to keep striving for excellence,” she says.
The Best Portfolio award highlights Kiyonga’s ability to integrate academic knowledge with practical application, a crucial skill in the evolving landscape of healthcare. Her work in hospital pharmacy practice-based learning involved medication management, patient counselling, and collaborative healthcare interventions, all of which are essential in optimising treatment outcomes.
Kiyonga credits her success to the mentorship she received from her lecturer, Jackson Mahlaba, as well as guidance from the hospital manager and other professionals in the field. “I actively sought feedback and dedicated time to refine my portfolio, which ultimately contributed to this achievement,” she notes.
A crucial component of Kiyonga’s education was her experiential learning in hospital pharmacy, which provided her with hands-on experience in inventory management, patient counselling, and teamwork. This exposure reinforced her understanding of pharmacists’ vital role in patient care. “One of the most impactful experiences for me was working alongside other healthcare professionals who were willing to assist and teach me,” she says. “It taught me the importance of patient-centred care and effective communication, both of which are essential skills in pharmacy.”
Success is rarely achieved alone, and Kiyonga acknowledges the unwavering support she received from her family, friends, and academic mentors. She emphasises that time management and seeking help were crucial in overcoming obstacles throughout her academic journey. “Having a strong support system kept me motivated, especially during challenging times,” she says. “I learned the importance of balancing academics with personal well-being and seeking guidance whenever I needed it.”
The culmination of her pharmacy studies was marked by the symbolic oath-taking ceremony, a defining moment in Kiyonga’s journey. “Taking the oath was incredibly significant, as it reaffirmed my commitment to ethical practice and the well-being of my patients,” she shared.
Looking ahead, Kiyonga aspires to contribute meaningfully to the pharmacy profession by leveraging her knowledge and skills to improve patient outcomes. “My goal is to expand my expertise and become a trusted healthcare professional, positively impacting patients’ lives,” she says.
“I am grateful for the support I have received from the School of Pharmacy and SMU. This journey has reinforced my commitment to patient care and professional growth,” she concludes.
By Tumelo Moila
