International Student Electives

Empowering Future Global Health Practitioners Through
Clinical Excellence & Cultural Immersion

Student Elective Program

Transform Your Medical
Education in Uganda

The RUN Foundation International Elective Program is designed to provide a meaningful, hands-on clinical experience combined with deep cultural immersion for international students pursuing medicine, dentistry, nursing, public health, or other allied health disciplines.

Students are placed in both community and clinical environments, offering exposure to healthcare in resource-limited settings, where adaptability, teamwork, and creativity are key. Through this program, students not only develop professionally but also gain empathy, humility, and a renewed global outlook on health equity.

Program Highlights

Experience comprehensive healthcare training in real-world settings
while immersing yourself in Uganda's rich cultural heritage

Clinical Exposure

Rotate across various units including Community Health & Preventive Care, Dental and Oral Health, Women's and Reproductive Health, Pediatrics & Child Health, Anesthesia and Nursing Practice, and Primary and Emergency Care.

Cultural Immersion

Participate in community visits and home care follow-ups, traditional cooking and cultural exchange experiences, faith-based and social service engagements, and local market and craft exposure tours.

Mentorship & Supervision

Each student or group is paired with a clinical preceptor—a licensed Ugandan health professional—who guides their rotations, ensures clinical safety, and fosters reflective learning throughout the program.

Clinical Placement Sites

Gain hands-on experience in diverse healthcare settings

RUN Community Children's Clinic

Our flagship clinic in Bamba serves as a referral and treatment center for children's cases, offering specialized dental and general healthcare services.

Partner Health Centers

Rotate through partner health centers and hospitals in the Wakiso and Luwero regions, experiencing diverse clinical environments and patient populations.

Field Community Outreach

Participate in mobile healthcare delivery programs, bringing essential medical services directly to remote villages and underserved communities.

Student Support & Safety

Your comfort, safety, and well-being are our top priorities

Comfortable Accommodation

Wakiso Mission House: Near the Children's Community Clinic and within reach of Kampala for easy access to program sites.

Elpo Mission House (Kabale District): For students rotating in southwestern Uganda, offering serene, scenic accommodation ideal for reflection and study.

Both facilities provide shared and private rooms, nutritious meals, internet access, and daily transport to workstations.

Safety & Orientation

Comprehensive Orientation: All participants undergo a two-day induction covering Ugandan healthcare systems, cultural norms, and safety protocols.

24-Hour Support: Emergency support available around the clock, with secure transportation and field logistics.

Compliance: Full adherence to Ministry of Health and institutional safety guidelines throughout your stay.

Program Duration & Eligibility

Duration Options

The elective program is available year-round, with placement options ranging from two to eight weeks, depending on academic requirements and institutional agreements.

Custom rotations can be arranged to align with your specific learning objectives and clinical interests.

Who Can Apply

  • Medical students (clinical years)
  • Nursing and midwifery students
  • Dental and oral health trainees
  • Public health and health systems students
  • Allied health professionals

Expected Learning Outcomes

Transform both professionally and personally through this immersive experience

Enhanced Clinical Skills

Develop stronger clinical and diagnostic reasoning skills through hands-on patient care in diverse settings.

Global Health Competencies

Gain cultural and global health competencies essential for practicing medicine in an interconnected world.

Adaptability & Teamwork

Strengthen teamwork and adaptability skills in low-resource environments where creativity is essential.

Community-Centered Care

Develop a deeper understanding of community-centered healthcare and preventive medicine approaches.

Personal Growth

Experience personal and spiritual growth through service, reflection, and meaningful cross-cultural connections.

Professional Networks

Build lasting relationships with international peers and Ugandan healthcare professionals.

Ready to Apply for an Elective Placement?

Join us in Uganda for a transformative clinical and cultural experience. Whether you're looking to fulfill academic requirements or simply expand your global health perspective, the RUN Foundation International Elective Program offers an unparalleled opportunity for growth and service.

RUN Foundation Logo

We've carried out over 200+ Community Outreaches. Since 2005, we have touched thousands of lives in rural communities, providing dental care and transforming lives through our evangelistic efforts.

RUN Foundation Location

  • info@runfoundationug.org
  • +256 756642592 | +256 200952144
  • www.runfoundationug.org
  • Bamba, Nangambo, Kasagati, Wakiso district, Uganda

UK Support: All Support from the UK goes through Westcan Churches (Missia Account: Sat Code: 30-91-20 | Account Number: 00459647 | Westfield URC Ref: RUN DENTAL)