After spending seven years as a nursing assistant, Keisha Thomas is now a registered nurse, a milestone she once thought would be difficult to achieve while balancing work and family responsibilities.
At the National Cultural Centre (NCC) on Thursday, Thomas was among the first 669 graduates of the Ministry of Health’s Professional Nursing Hybrid Training Programme.
She explained that the flexible approach made it possible for her to achieve a long-held goal.
“It was a beautiful experience. I would be lying if I said it wasn’t challenging because I was working and studying at the same time. But I wanted it, and anything that you want, you’re going to put your best foot forward and put in the work.”
She encouraged others to seize the opportunity, adding that despite the challenges, the programme proves that students can complete online learning while receiving practical clinical training.
Ketona McGregor from Region Seven said the programme has increased access to professional training for persons living in hinterland and remote communities.
“We were able to train in our respective regions, which was an advantage because a lot of persons have families and cannot leave their regions. It is a great initiative by the Government of Guyana,” she said.
McGregor noted that although adapting to online learning was initially challenging, the support provided by lecturers and clinical instructors helped her graduate with credit.
Meanwhile, Rena Bowman of Region Five said the programme allows healthcare workers to remain in their communities while improving their qualifications.
“It reaches persons where they are. It allows us to become registered nurses without leaving our families and communities. The initiative is really great.”
Lisa Joseph of Region 10 echoed similar sentiments, noting that balancing full-time work, studies and family life was demanding but worthwhile.
The Professional Nursing Hybrid Training Programme forms part of the government’s wider investment in expanding access to tertiary education and strengthening Guyana’s healthcare workforce.
The initiative is producing more qualified nurses to improve healthcare delivery while creating greater opportunities for career advancement and national development.