Region Eight is now benefiting from a new $140.8 million simulation centre to strengthen health sciences education and expand training opportunities for healthcare workers in the region.
While commissioning the facility on Saturday, Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony said the facility marks another critical step in the government’s efforts to build a skilled health workforce across Guyana.
The centre will allow nursing students to complete practical components of their training closer to home, while also providing hands-on instruction for other categories of healthcare workers.
“Whether it’s learning how to give an infusion, find a vein, deliver a baby, whatever the skill we require each nurse to know, this facility will enable it,” Dr Anthony said.
He said, “We are not only going to train nurses; we are going to train other categories of healthcare workers.”
The minister said theoretical knowledge is important, but healthcare professionals must also develop the practical skills required to perform effectively in clinical settings.
The new facility is equipped to provide practical training in nursing and other health disciplines, allowing trainees to develop and refine clinical competencies in a controlled environment before applying them to patient care.
The expansion of training opportunities within Region Eight is also expected to contribute to the development of a stronger healthcare workforce and create opportunities for residents interested in pursuing careers in the health sector.
Minister Anthony further pointed out that ongoing investments in healthcare infrastructure are being made for the construction of a hospital at Kato.
He said the hospital will be the first of its kind in Region Eight and will provide a modern, state-of-the-art facility to improve access to quality healthcare.
Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development Pauline Sukhai, Minister of Public Service, Government Efficiency and Implementation Zulfikar Ally and other officials attended the commissioning ceremony.