Online Reporter
Tanaka Nkala, Sunday News Reporter
A TOTAL of 70 psychiatric nursing students have graduated at Ingutsheni Central Hospital in Bulawayo as the Government announced a comprehensive strategy aimed at strengthening and co-ordinating psychiatric health services across the country.
The move is expected to expand community-based interventions, reduce the mental health burden and promote recovery orientation through integrated services.
Speaking at the hospital’s Annual 2025 Prize Giving and Graduation Ceremony on Friday, Acting Director of Finance, Administration and Human Resources, Mr Stephen Ndagurwa, who was representing the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Judith Ncube, said their main goal was to re-establish and expand community based mental health services to transform the model of care for the affected.
“This can only be achieved through collaboration with stakeholders, including health professionals, community organisations and development partners,” he said.
Mr Ndagurwa underscored the ministry’s commitment to strengthening services for the prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of mental health conditions including drug and alcohol abuse.
“We are reviewing the Mental Health Act of 1996 and the Mental Health Policy of 2005, to ensure they respond to the current needs of society,” he added.
The re-introduction of the Registered Mental Nurse (RMN) Programme has been a major milestone in building critical skills for mental health care as it marked its seventh graduation.
Chief Medical Officer, Dr Nemache Mawere, highlighted the hospital’s achievements including infrastructural upgrades and improved working conditions for staff.
“We still have more repairs and upgrades to be done to our wards and departments as we are working on this, to be implemented in the future,” he said.
Dr Mawere also announced plans to increase the intake of registered mental health nurses from 15 to 100 per year, emphasising the need for an enabling environment to accommodate the growing numbers.
“The hospital has been recognised as a centre of excellence in mental health training, producing highly sought-after professionals locally and abroad,” he said.
Dr Mawere expressed pride in the hospital’s achievements, citing the clean and conducive environment and applauded staff for maintaining high-quality standards.
The event saw top performing students being honoured with prizes. Among them was Belinda Zodwa Gotore, who scooped more than six prizes, while Nathan Mpala, Karryn Manyota and Sally Mukoyi received gold medals for outstanding performance.
In an interview, Mpala shared his experience and challenges during training but said determination enabled him to sail through.
“We all know that courses have their own obstacles but I managed to render in my studies and become a registered mental health nurse,” he said.
By prioritising the integration of psychiatric services, the ministry aims to create a more comprehensive approach that not only addresses immediate needs but also promotes long-term mental wellness across communities.
