09/24/2026
Salam! My name is Lona Ayinga Dada, and I am a final-year Clinical Officer student currently completing my internship at Koboko General Hospital in Koboko District, Uganda. I previously completed my Diploma in Clinical Medicine and Public Health at Kajokeji Health Training Institute (KKHTI).
Growing up, I saw many people in my hometown and surrounding villages struggle to access medical care. Some turned to local herbalists, while others sought help through traditional practices. Seeing these challenges inspired me to pursue healthcare. I wanted to become someone who could provide medical care and serve communities with limited access to health services.
Getting the opportunity to study Clinical Medicine was a dream come true, but the cost of education was a major challenge. After applying, I was accepted into the Hannah Scholarship Program, where I receive support from the program's donors. This scholarship does more than pay my school fees. It gives me the stability and peace of mind I needed to pursue my education by covering my tuition, accommodation, upkeep, food, uniforms, and other essential educational needs.
Because of this support, I did not have to constantly worry about being sent away from class because of unpaid fees or wondering how I would afford the basic things I needed to remain in university. Instead, I could concentrate on learning, completing my training, and preparing for the responsibility of caring for patients.
Now, I am completing my clinical internship at Koboko General Hospital, gaining daily hands-on experience caring for patients. This experience has made me more confident, skilled, and determined to serve. My family is proud, and I am a role model for younger children in my community, showing that education is possible despite challenges.
My dream is to become a competent and compassionate Clinical Officer who can serve in urban, rural, and underserved communities where healthcare workers are few and the need for care is great. And by God's grace, I hope to continue my education and specialize in pediatrics because I love seeing children recover and return to the joys of childhood.
Ultimately, my heart is to be the kind of healthcare provider who not only treats illness, but also helps save lives, teaches people about disease prevention, and brings dignity and compassion to every patient I meet.
The support I received will not end with me. The education and skills I am gaining will allow me to serve patients for years to come- mothers, children, elderly people, and families who may otherwise struggle to access quality healthcare.
I am sincerely grateful to every supporter and donor who made this scholarship possible. Thank you for believing in me, investing in my education, and helping make my dream possible.
May the Almighty God continue to bless you abundantly, and may all the glory and honor return to Him. I am deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed to my story. Thank you for investing in my future and in the lives I hope to serve.
Sincerely,
Lona Ayinga Dada
To help bless 30 deserving South Sudanese students, like Ayinga,
with higher education, visit: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/25thscholarships/
Here are the ways your gift can make a difference for our Hannah Scholarship students:
Bless a University Student with 1 Week of Tuition! = $27
Bless a Secondary School Student with School Tuition for 1 Year! = $350
Bless a University Student with School Tuition for 1 Year! = $1,084
