Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) has cemented its reputation as a regional powerhouse in medical education. Our team emerged 2nd overall out of 22 competing universities at the first-ever East African Physiology Quiz Competition, held in Kigali, Rwanda.
From May 8th to 10th, 2026, the University of Rwanda played host to the brightest medical minds from Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda under the theme: “Advancing Physiology Education in East Africa.”
The Road to the Podium
The journey to the silver medal was a grueling test of clinical reasoning and rapid problem-solving. It began with a high-stakes written MCQ round involving negative marking, where our team showed immense resilience to qualify for the semi-finals after finishing 7th overall. During the semi-final stage, the competition shifted to advanced problem-solving and oral questioning; here, MUST delivered an exceptional performance, emerging as the best-performing team of the round. This momentum carried us into the Grand Finale, a tense oral quiz among the region’s elite. In a nail-biting finish, our university secured Second Position overall with a score of 3/4 points, finishing just a hair’s breadth behind Lira University.
Meet the MUST Champions
Our success was driven by a dedicated team of students and mentors:
The Quiz Team:
- Mr. Talyambiri Aaron
- Ms. Mukama Samantha Magdalene
- Mr. Akena Joshua
Mentors & Faculty:
- Dr. Omolo Ouma Ronald (Accompanying Staff)
- Mr. Wilbrod Atholere Sikahwa (Physiology Workshop)
- Mr. Mwesigwa Geoffrey (Physiology Workshop)
Why this matters
This achievement carries significant weight for our institution, as it officially ranks MUST among the top physiology teams in East Africa and enhances our institutional visibility on a regional scale. By demonstrating strong competitiveness in both written and oral assessments, our students proved they could master complex clinical reasoning and work effectively under pressure. Beyond the award plate and academic prestige, this participation provided invaluable regional exposure and collaborative learning experiences. Most importantly, this success serves as a powerful inspiration for our entire student body, fostering a deeper interest in physiology and setting a new benchmark for academic excellence at MUST.
