21/07/2025
'Emotional farewell’ as Allied School boss Elias Muhangi moves on after 32 years of service.
19th July 19, 2025 | IAH Media
Friday 18th July 19, 2025 morning was an emotional moment, with some Ishaka Adventist Hospital and Health Training Institutions (IAHHTIs) members sad to see their former colleague and Principal Allied School of Health Sciences, Mr. Elias Muhangi, bid farewell to them, while it was also a moment for the team to celebrate the pioneering principal and his contribution towards the growth and development of the school.
For Mr. Muhangi, it was bittersweet to say goodbye to the community that he has served for 32 years though he promised to stay in touch given that he stays on the same hill with the institution and some of his family members serve in the hospital.
As he delivered homily, the hospital chaplain, Pastor Moses Baingana Mwijukye, used the example of Abraham who obeyed and got blessed because he accepted the call of God, thanked Mr. Muhangi and his wife for what they have done for the institution.
“Thanks for accepting God's call and giving your strength, heart and mind for his work in a period of 32 years. You have been a blessing,” he said
Pastor Baingana called upon the members in the house to go into the world and serve with the light of God.
The Human Resource Officer, Mr. Asaph Mwesigye hailed the outgoing Principal for being a hardworking servant, who saw possibilities in everything, and this kept him moving, adding that Mr. Muhangi was a parent to students especially the needy ones who were enabled to finish their studies, while the School of Nursing and Midwifery Principal, Mrs. Hope Rukundo Yamanya urged him to keep being faithful to God, who holds the future and has better plans.
The Allied School of Health Sciences started in February 1998 as Ishaka Hospital Laboratory Assistants Training school primarily to bridge the gap in the hospital's Laboratory department. It has since then grown into a recognized satellite training center offering certificate and diploma programs including Medical Laboratory assistance and technology, Pharmacy Assistance and Technology, Medical theater assistance, and Anesthesia assistance.
Mr. Muhangi’s key achievements for the school include securing full accreditation for six programs, posting high graduate pass rates, securing job placements and national recognition, continued staff training and development, strong partnerships with organizations, implementation of community health initiatives, facility upgrades and technological improvements, establishment of quality assurance and continuous improvement systems, etc.
Mr. Frank Tumwebaze, while representing the governing council said it was good for the principal to leave when he is still strong so that he can extend service to other areas.
“I have known Elias since high school. I was happy to find him here. The news of your departure hit me hard. I was profoundly affected. As human beings, we don’t know what God has for us. Change is a fact of life. When it comes, you take it the way it is. We may miss you as an institution, but God has better plans. It is better to leave when you are still strong so that you can do other things as God guides you.” He said
He charged the incoming principal to inspire the stakeholders so that the school can continue running.
The IAHHTIs acting Executive Director, Dr. Ian Ivule thanked Mr. Muhangi for touching many people’s lives and helping them to achieve their goals.
“Pioneering these courses over years is part of the landmarks that you are leaving behind. Thanks for leaving a legacy. Leaving the school in a remarkable way is not something that we can take for granted,” Dr. Ivule
Mr. Muhangi’s time as principal, among other achievements, partnered with AMREF to construct an administration block, secure a 30-seater coaster bus, build a dormitory for male students, and secure some essential equipment for learning purposes.
The outgoing servant will live to remember how the institution has touched his life and that of his family.
“The hospital has educated me and my children. I can't have any evil feelings towards this institution. I wouldn't be what I am if this institution had not supported me.” Mr. Muhangi told people who turned up for his farewell.
He leaves behind an enrolment of 208 continuing and new 154 admitted students.
END
