In a remarkable display of commitment to healthcare education, educators from nursing and community health worker programmes across Papua New Guinea gathered for the second national fast track workshop in Port Moresby. This event marks a significant stride in the Strengthening Health Workforce Education (SHWE) Programme, aimed at enhancing the quality of health education and services throughout the nation.
The SHWE Programme, funded by the Australian Government, is a collaborative effort involving the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG), the Department of Health, and the World Health Organisation’s Collaborating Centre for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Development at the University of Technology Sydney. This initiative is all about ensuring that future health professionals are well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of their communities, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes across Papua New Guinea.
This recent workshop saw participation from 48 dedicated educators—32 women and 16 men—representing 32 nursing and community health worker schools nationwide. Over a productive five-day period, these educators delved into advanced teaching techniques, innovative assessment strategies, and a comprehensive review of updated study plans tailored to address the specific healthcare realities facing communities in PNG.
Lead trainer Professor Di Brown, who teaches nursing at the University of Technology Sydney, expressed her admiration for the participants, stating, “It’s inspiring to witness the enthusiasm and commitment of these health educators. By embracing student-centred learning and modern assessment practices, they are not only elevating their own teaching but also shaping a more skilled and confident health workforce for the future.” Her remarks highlight the transformative potential of this initiative in fostering a new generation of healthcare professionals.
Mary Kililo, a technical adviser on human resources training at the Health Department, emphasized the significance of the programme, noting, “This initiative is a vital step in strengthening the teaching capacity of our health educators. By empowering nursing and community health instructors with the right tools, we are laying a foundation for a better health workforce in PNG.” Her insights shed light on the broader implications of this workshop for the future of healthcare in the region.
This workshop is more than just a training session; it’s a stepping stone towards a more resilient health system in Papua New Guinea. As these educators return to their schools with newfound knowledge and skills, they will undoubtedly contribute to a healthcare workforce that is not only capable but also committed to serving their communities effectively.
As Papua New Guinea continues to invest in its human resources and health education, this initiative serves as a promising model for other countries in the region looking to enhance their health systems. The SHWE Programme exemplifies the power of collaboration and community-driven approaches to solve pressing health challenges.
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