In a move to further strengthen health sciences education in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), a new Simulation Centre constructed at a cost of over 140 million was commissioned on Saturday. The facility marks another significant step in the Government’s efforts to expand healthcare training opportunities and build a skilled health workforce across the country. The new Simulation Centre is designed to provide students and healthcare workers with hands-on, practical training in nursing and other healthcare disciplines. The facility will allow trainees to develop and refine essential clinical skills in a controlled environment before applying those competencies in healthcare settings. Delivering the feature address at the commissioning ceremony, Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony explained that the facility will address an important component of nursing education by allowing students to complete practical aspects of their training within the region.

“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. We are not only going to train nurses; we are going to train other categories of healthcare workers,” Dr Anthony said. He emphasised that while theoretical knowledge remains important, healthcare professionals must also be equipped with the practical competencies necessary to perform effectively in clinical settings. According to Minister Anthony, the Simulation Centre will therefore play a critical role in ensuring that trainees are better prepared to apply their knowledge and skills when providing care to patients. He expressed the Ministry’s satisfaction with the completion and commissioning of the facility, noting that it represents another boost to healthcare development in Region Eight. By expanding training opportunities within the region, the initiative will also help to develop a stronger local healthcare workforce and create opportunities for persons interested in pursuing careers in the health sector. Further, he highlighted other ongoing investments aimed at transforming healthcare delivery in Region Eight, including the Kato Hospital, which is currently under construction. He noted that the hospital will be the first of its kind in the region, a modern, state-of-the-art healthcare facility that will significantly enhance access to quality health services. Importantly, the Ministry intends to build the workforce required for the facility by training and employing persons from within the region. The establishment of the Simulation Centre complements this wider vision by ensuring that healthcare workers have access to the practical training necessary to serve effectively at health facilities across Region Eight.