Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Francis Atwoli’s son, Professor Lukoye Atwoli, was on Monday elected as an international member of the National Academy of Medicine (NAM), headquartered in Washington DC, United States of America.
This is among the highest honours in health and medicine as the role recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to the profession.
In a statement by Aga Khan University, Atwoli, who serves as the Dean of the institution’s Medical College, was elected for his contributions and advocacy of the mental health care policy, education and epidemiology globally.
Lukoye was also chosen for leading two innovative medical schools as dean and co-chairing the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine’s Board on Global Health, among other achievements.
While speaking about the role, Atwoli credited his colleagues at the Aga Khan University and the professionals they have worked with for global recognition.
“It is an incredible honour for me to be elected to the US National Academy of Medicine. This election is in recognition of the work we do here in Africa and globally, hopefully impacting our populations by meeting them at their point of need,” he stated.
“As a member of the Academy I hope to support the institution with my knowledge and experience, but perhaps more importantly to also benefit from the knowledge and experience of other esteemed colleagues at the Academy.”
“I must acknowledge all the colleagues I have worked with and continue to work with here at AKU, and elsewhere in Africa and globally, whose support and collaboration have enabled me to attain this noble recognition. As we say here on the continent, it truly does take a village!”
During its annual meeting, Lukoye was among 100 new members selected in the Academy. According to NAM President Victor Dzau, the new members’ contributions in the field of medicine remain unparalleled, and their expertise is essential in assisting NAM to tackle the health challenges experienced globally.
The new role comes as Lukoye was elected as an international member of the American Psychiatric Association (APA) in early January for his roles in supporting mental health research.
Aside from the appointments, Lukoye is a member of the World Health Organisation (WHO’s) World Mental Health Surveys Consortium, the leading collaborative project in the psychiatric field globally.
