Online Reporter
Getrude Manyande [email protected]
GOVERNMENT is expanding the training of healthcare workers across the country as part of efforts to build a larger, skilled and resilient health workforce capable of boosting health service delivery and advancing the country’s journey towards Universal Health Coverage.
The drive is critical to ensuring that health institutions are adequately equipped with competent professionals to deliver quality care, improve health outcomes and ensure that no community is left behind.
In Bulawayo, this investment in human capital was reinforced on Friday at the United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH) where 142 healthcare professionals graduated after completing their respective training programmes and are set to join Zimbabwe’s health workforce.
Bulawayo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Judith Ncube, who was the guest of honour, said the graduation represented an important milestone not only for the graduands, but also for the country’s collective efforts to strengthen the healthcare system.
“This graduation marks a significant milestone not only for the graduating class but also for our nation. Today, we gather to celebrate the achievements of 142 successful graduands who have completed their respective training programmes,” she said in a speech read on her behalf by deputy director for administration Mr Julius Gwatiwa.
“As these graduands join Zimbabwe’s health workforce, they become part of the collective effort to strengthen our healthcare system and improve the well-being of our people.”
Minister Ncube said the graduation was aligned with President Mnangagwa’s vision, which places emphasis on strengthening the health workforce as the country works towards achieving Universal Health Coverage.
“This graduation aligns with His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe’s vision as articulated in the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), which emphasises strengthening the health workforce as we work collectively towards achieving Universal Health Coverage,” said the minister.
She said the continued training of healthcare professionals was tangible evidence of Government’s investment in human capital and commitment to developing a skilled, resilient and responsive health sector.
Every new healthcare professional, said Ncube, represents an important addition to efforts to expand access to quality services, prevent disease and improve health outcomes for Zimbabweans.
Minister Ncube commended UBH for its contribution to the development of competent, compassionate and highly skilled healthcare professionals, saying the institution continued to play a key role in shaping the future of healthcare in the country.
“I would like to commend the United Bulawayo Hospitals for the remarkable work they continue to do in training competent, compassionate and highly skilled healthcare professionals. Your unwavering commitment to excellence in education and clinical training is shaping the future of healthcare in our country,” she said.
She said the institution’s efforts had consistently produced professionals who uphold high standards of nursing practice and contribute to strengthening the national health delivery system.
Addressing the graduates, Minister Ncube said their entry into the health sector came with a responsibility to serve communities with integrity, compassion, humility and unwavering commitment.
“Nursing is the beating heart of our healthcare system, and your dedication is the lifeblood of our communities. Today, you are not merely receiving certificates; you are accepting a noble calling to care, to heal and to restore hope,” she said.
Minister Ncube further urged the new healthcare professionals to recognise the important role they will play as beacons of hope and pillars of strength for individuals, families and communities.
She said their knowledge, skills and professionalism would contribute significantly to the country’s efforts to promote good health, prevent disease and provide quality healthcare services to all citizens.
Meanwhile, Government has said it remains fully committed to strengthening the health sector through continued investment in healthcare infrastructure, expanding training opportunities and providing the resources necessary to improve service delivery across the country.
The expansion of health worker training, combined with ongoing investment in infrastructure and equipment, is expected to strengthen the country’s capacity to deliver quality healthcare and move closer towards Universal Health Coverage.
“I invite all of us to renew our shared commitment to achieving quality health services for every Zimbabwean. Let’s continue working together ensuring that no one and no place is left behind as we build a healthier and more prosperous Zimbabwe,” said the minister
The colourful graduation ceremony was attended by Government officials, hospital management and health professionals, family members, partners and sponsors.
