In an exclusive interview, Ndagishe Aliyi, Dean of Studies at MK International School and Chief Executive Officer of Ali Medical Hospital, has sharply criticised government priorities, accusing it of sidelining the health sector while fast-tracking salary increments for Arts teachers.
Speaking candidly, Dr. Aliyi highlighted the frustrating reality facing medical graduates:
“Every year, thousands of qualified doctors graduate from various universities, yet many remain unemployed or underemployed for extended periods. This situation is not only frustrating for the young professionals who have invested years in rigorous medical training, but it is also a missed opportunity to bolster our strained healthcare workforce.”
His comments come just weeks after Jessica Alupo announced that Arts teachers in government-aided secondary schools will receive a phased 25% salary enhancement starting July 2026 in the FY 2026/2027 budget, as the first step toward harmonising pay with science teachers who benefited from earlier uplifts.
Dr. Aliyi, who oversees academic programmes at MK International School while running Ali Medical Hospital, also raised concern over the ongoing problem of drug theft in public hospitals.
“The rampant theft of medical drugs and essential supplies in government hospitals has reached alarming levels and can no longer be ignored. This unethical and criminal practice directly undermines the efforts of hardworking health workers and deprives vulnerable patients — especially the poor and marginalized — of life-saving medications. Essential drugs meant for public facilities frequently disappear, only to resurface in private pharmacies or on the black market at inflated prices.”
He called for stronger measures to address the issue, including digital tracking of medical supplies, regular audits, enhanced security, and firm penalties for those involved.
On employment, Dr. Aliyi urged the government to prioritise the immediate absorption of newly trained doctors into public health facilities to address staffing shortages and improve service delivery across the country.
In his closing remarks, he emphasised the urgency of the situation:
“The time for half-measures is over. Addressing drug theft and expanding the health workforce are not optional — they are fundamental to safeguarding lives and ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare. I appeal to policymakers, relevant ministries, and all stakeholders to treat these issues with the seriousness and urgency they deserve.”
The government has previously acknowledged these challenges. In early 2026, the Ministry of Health requested Shs32.5 billion to digitise hospital systems to curb drug theft, while Parliament passed the National Drug and Health Products Authority Bill, 2025 to strengthen regulation. Some arrests have been made, although concerns remain over inconsistent enforcement and persistent drug stock-outs.
Doctor unemployment continues to be a concern, with thousands of graduates competing for limited public positions despite ongoing staffing gaps in health facilities.
Dr. Aliyi’s remarks have sparked debate, with many questioning the balance in government spending between education and healthcare, and calling for greater attention to the challenges facing the health sector.
