A Journey of Excellence and Leadership: Prof. Evarist Kizito Njelesani, Vice Chancellor of Lusaka Apex Medical University

Prof. Njelesani’s dedication to continuous learning and professional growth propelled him to achieve numerous prestigious fellowships, including the Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians, Edinburgh (FRCP) in 1989, Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians, London (FRCP) in 2015, and the Fellowship of the Eastern, Central, and Southern Africa (FCP – ECSA) in 2016. These accolades are a testament to his unwavering commitment to advancing medical knowledge and practice.

Throughout his career, Prof. Njelesani held various esteemed positions in the medical field, both in Zambia and abroad. He served as the Director of the WHO-supported Tropical Diseases Research Center at Ndola Central Hospital, where his leadership and expertise contributed significantly to advancements in tropical medicine. Additionally, he served as a Consultant Physician at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) in Lusaka, Zambia, and held the position of Permanent Secretary and Director of Medical Services in the Ministry of Health, Lusaka. Prof. Njelesani’s commitment to service extended to being the Chief Physician to the 1st Republican President of Zambia, demonstrating his dedication to both healthcare and national leadership.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the medical profession, Prof. Njelesani has received numerous accolades and awards. Notably, he was honored with the Fellow, Zambia Academy of Sciences in 2018 and the Zambia Medical Association Life Time Achievement in Medicine in 2017. These awards acknowledge his exceptional achievements and his profound impact on the healthcare sector in Zambia.

Prof. Njelesani’s association with Lusaka Apex Medical University began in 2008 when he became one of the eight Founder Members. Since then, he has played a pivotal role in the university’s growth and success. He served as the Founding Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and later assumed the position of Deputy Vice Chancellor before being appointed as the Vice Chancellor in 2022. Prof. Njelesani’s visionary leadership and wealth of experience continue to guide LAMU towards excellence in medical education, research, and healthcare provision.

As we reflect on Prof. Njelesani’s accomplishments and the impact he has made throughout his career, it is evident that his contributions extend far beyond his professional endeavors. He is a Founder President of Zambia College of Physicians (ZACOPH), Founder President of the East, Central, and Southern Africa College of Physicians (ECSACOP), and Founder Chairman of the Zambia National Health Research Authority. His passion for advancing medical education and research is further reflected in his role as a Founder Fellow of the Zambia Academy of Sciences.

Prof. Evarist Kizito Njelesani’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of education, dedication, and service. As the Vice Chancellor of Lusaka Apex Medical University, he continues to inspire future generations of healthcare professionals, imparting his vast knowledge and experience to shape the future of healthcare in Zambia and beyond.

We are honored to have Prof. Njelesani at the helm of Lusaka Apex Medical University, leading us towards a brighter and healthier tomorrow. Join us in celebrating his exceptional achievements and his unwavering commitment to medical education, research, and healthcare excellence. Together, let us forge a path of innovation and compassion in the pursuit of a healthier society for all.