In an inspiring bid for recognition and advancement, around 100 qualified nurses in Namibia have come together to formally request an exemption from the pre-registration evaluation process. This collective of skilled healthcare professionals, who have successfully completed a bridging program enabling them to transition from enrolled nurses to registered nurses, is advocating for a more streamlined pathway to official recognition.
The phased-out bridging program, which allowed these nurses to gain invaluable experience through three years of practical work, underscores their capability to fulfill the responsibilities expected of registered nurses. The nurses argue that their diploma training and significant clinical experience equip them with knowledge comparable to that assessed through the evaluation tests conducted by the University of Namibia.
Natasia Swartbooi, the spokesperson for the group, expressed the essence of their argument succinctly: “Nursing cannot be defined by theory; it’s a practical skill that is an ongoing learning process.” With many members boasting over a decade of hands-on experience, their plea emphasizes the importance of practical knowledge in the nursing field.
One critical issue that has emerged is the undue delays in the examination process, which have stalled their career progression. Yolande Wemmert pointed out that recent diploma graduates and intakes have been granted exemptions, highlighting an inconsistency that directly affects them. “We urge the nursing council to consider our situation fairly and address universities directly involved in this matter,” she stated.
The financial burden associated with the evaluation tests—approximately N,000 for an initial attempt and N,000 for a retake—has also been a significant concern for many. For many aspiring registered nurses, this cost poses an insurmountable hurdle. Esmarialda //Garoes articulated the group’s frustrations: “We are already nurses, on the payroll and registered with the nursing council. With the experience we possess, we humbly ask for exemption from this test.”
In their fight for equitable treatment, the nurses have appealed to the Ministry of Health and the National Assembly for support in their request for exemption. Kuveongarera Riruako, one of the advocates, passionately called for ministerial intervention, aiming to ensure their voices are heard at higher levels of governance.
This situation represents not just a professional challenge, but a clarion call for systemic change within Namibia’s healthcare system. The nurses are dedicated to serving their communities, and their request for exemption stands as a testament to their commitment to advancing healthcare while ensuring that their skills are recognized and utilized effectively.
As the dialogue continues, the nurses eagerly await a response from the Health Professions Council of Namibia (HPCNA), hoping for a favorable outcome that could significantly impact their careers and the overall healthcare landscape in Namibia.
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