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Montfort Academy's Nursing Course
In a world where the demands for skilled healthcare professionals are ever-increasing, Montfort Academy has taken a significant step towards addressing this need by launching a Nursing Assistantship Course. This initiative, in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Panaji and Veejay Facility Management Pvt. Ltd., aims to equip young minds with the necessary skills to become proficient nursing assistants and home nurses. The program, which is set to commence in July 2024, is not just an educational venture but a social initiative designed to uplift the rural youth and provide them with meaningful employment opportunities.
A Vision Born from Necessity
Brother Prem, Director of Montfort Academy, shared the origin story of this initiative during an interview. The idea was conceived in 2019, pre-Covid, with the intention of helping rural children, particularly girls, who struggle to find good job opportunities. The pandemic caused a two-year delay, but the determination to create a course with a significant impact on rural youth never wavered. The collaboration with the Rotary Club of Panaji and Veejay Facility Management brought this vision closer to reality.
Smitha Vijay, Director at Veejay Facility Management Pvt. Ltd., and Rotarian Nester Sequeira, the immediate past president of the Rotary Club of Panaji, have been instrumental in shaping this program. Their combined efforts have ensured that the Nursing Assistantship Course is not just about education but also about instilling virtues and values in the students, making them effective caregivers in various settings.
Objectives and Goals of the Nursing Assistantship Course
The primary objective of the Nursing Assistantship Course is to provide employment opportunities to rural youth and address the healthcare needs of the elderly
population in Goa. Brother Prem emphasised that there is a significant demand for premium health services in Goa, particularly for elderly care. The course aims to bridge the gap in employment while ensuring that quality healthcare is accessible to those who need it the most.
Smitha Vijay added that the course is designed to ensure that students receive both theoretical and practical training. This holistic approach prepares them to work efficiently in hospitals, healthcare centres, and private homes. The practical training will be conducted at Montfort Academy, with opportunities for internships in hospitals to gain real-life experience.
Enrolment and Cost
The course is open to individuals who have completed their 10th standard and are at least 18 years old. The total cost for the one-year program is Rs. 35,000, with an additional Rs. 5,000 for uniforms and other essentials. Recognising the financial challenges that some students may face, the program offers scholarships based on merit and need. Deserving students can receive up to 100% scholarship, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their educational aspirations.
Brother Prem highlighted that the course is not limited to the coastal areas or cities but aims to reach remote villages in Goa. The goal is to provide opportunities to those who have been overlooked, offering them a chance to serve and grow within their communities.
Practical Training and Job Opportunities
The Nursing Assistantship Course offers a hands-on curriculum, with students gaining experience in real-time patient care services. The practical training is supported by a team of experienced instructors, including a retired nursing professional with 15-20 years of experience. The students will also benefit from guest lectures on various topics, including ethics, manners, and language skills, which are crucial for working in diverse environments.
Upon completion of the course, students will have guaranteed job opportunities both in India and abroad. The program prepares them for careers in hospitals, healthcare centres, and private homes, addressing a wide range of healthcare needs. The demand for nursing assistants is high in European countries, where the language barrier is minimal, providing students with global employment prospects.
Community Impact and Future Vision
The long-term vision for the Nursing Assistantship Course is to expand and eventually establish a full-time nursing institute offering multifaceted nursing programs. The aim is to create a sustainable system that not only provides employment but also addresses the healthcare needs of the society. By reaching out to the youth from remote villages and providing them with valuable skills, the program seeks to uplift communities and create a positive impact on Goa's healthcare landscape.
Rotarian Nester Sequeira emphasised the importance of this initiative, highlighting the need for qualified caregivers in Goa. The course aims to fill this gap by training students to provide high-quality care to the elderly and those in need. The collaboration between Montfort Academy, the Rotary Club of Panaji, and Veejay Facility Management is a testament to the power of community-driven efforts to bring about meaningful change.
Building the Foundation for Success
As Montfort Academy embarks on this ambitious journey, the foundation for success lies in its comprehensive approach to education and training.
The curriculum is designed to be rigious yet accessible, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Students will learn essential healthcare procedures such as monitoring blood pressure, checking sugar levels, administering medication, and providing mobility assistance.
Beyond the technical skills, the course places a strong emphasis on soft skills and personal development. Topics such as ethics, manners, and communication are integral parts of the curriculum. The ability to communicate effectively with patients and their families, demonstrate compassion, and maintain professional conduct are crucial traits for any healthcare provider. The inclusion of these elements ensures that graduates are not only competent but also compassionate caregivers.
A Day in the Life of a Nursing Assistant Trainee
To understand the impact of the Nursing Assistantship Course, it is essential to envision a day in the life of a trainee at Montfort Academy. The day begins with theoretical classes, where students delve into subjects such as anatomy, physiology, and healthcare ethics. These sessions are led by experienced instructors who provide a deep understanding of the concepts and practical applications.
Following the morning classes, students move to the practical labs, where they engage in hands-on training. Under the guidance of senior instructors, they practise various procedures, from taking vital signs to assisting patients with mobility. The labs are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, allowing students to gain confidence and proficiency in a controlled environment.
Afternoons are dedicated to guest lectures and workshops. Professionals from the healthcare industry are invited to share their expertise and experiences. These sessions cover a wide range of topics, including the latest advancements in healthcare, patient care techniques, and career development strategies. The exposure to industry experts helps students stay abreast of current trends and best practices. applications.
Following the morning classes, students move to the practical labs, where they engage in hands-on training. Under the guidance of senior instructors, they practise various procedures, from taking vital signs to assisting patients with mobility. The labs are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, allowing students to gain confidence and proficiency in a controlled environment.
Afternoons are dedicated to guest lectures and workshops. Professionals from the healthcare industry are invited to share their expertise and experiences. These sessions cover a wide range of topics, including the latest advancements in healthcare, patient care techniques, and career development strategies. The exposure to industry experts helps students stay abreast of current trends and best practices.
Addressing the Mental Health Aspect
One of the unique features of the Nursing Assistantship Course at Montfort Academy is its focus on mental health. Recognising that caregiving extends beyond physical care, the program includes training on addressing mental health concerns. Students learn how to identify signs of mental distress, provide emotional support, and engage in therapeutic communication.
This aspect of the training is particularly important in the context of elderly care. Many elderly individuals experience loneliness, anxiety, and depression, and a well-trained caregiver can make a significant difference in their well-being. By equipping students with the skills to address these issues, the course ensures that they can provide holistic care that encompasses both physical and mental health.
Overcoming Financial Barriers
A critical component of the Nursing Assistantship Course is its commitment to making education accessible to all. Understanding the financial barriers that many potential students face, Montfort Academy has implemented a robust scholarship program. Scholarships are awarded based on merit and financial need, ensuring that deserving candidates have the opportunity to pursue this noble career.
In addition to scholarships, the academy offers financial assistance in the form of loans. Students can repay these loans upon gaining
employment, creating a sustainable model where the repaid funds are used to support future students. This approach not only helps individual students but also strengthens the overall program by enabling continuous support for new entrants.
Testimonials from Industry Leaders
The launch of the Nursing Assistantship Course has garnered positive feedback from industry leaders and community members alike. Dr. Anita D'Souza, a prominent healthcare professional in Goa, praised the initiative, stating, "The Nursing Assistantship Course at Montfort Academy is a muchneeded program. It addresses a critical gap in our healthcare system by providing trained caregivers who can offer both physical and emotional support to patients."
Similarly, Mr. Rajesh Naik, a local business leader, emphasised the economic impact of the program. "This course not only provides employment opportunities for the youth but also contributes to the overall economic development of the region. The skills and knowledge gained by the students will have a ripple effect, improving the quality of healthcare and boosting the local economy."
The Road Ahead: Expanding Horizons
Looking ahead, Montfort Academy envisions expanding the Nursing Assistantship Course to accommodate more students and offer specialised training in various areas of
healthcare. The goal is to establish a fullfledged nursing institute that offers a range of programs, from basic nursing assistantship to advanced nursing degrees.
The academy also plans to strengthen its partnerships with healthcare institutions both within Goa and beyond. By creating a network of hospitals and healthcare centres for internships and job placements, Montfort Academy aims to ensure that graduates have ample opportunities for practical experience and employment.
Furthermore, the academy is exploring avenues for international collaborations. The demand for skilled nursing assistants is high in many countries, and partnerships with international institutions could open doors for students to gain global exposure and employment opportunities.
Joining Hands for a Noble Cause
The success of the Nursing Assistantship Course at Montfort Academy hinges on the support and collaboration of various stakeholders. From community members and industry leaders to government agencies and international partners, everyone has a role to play in making this initiative a success.
Individuals and organisations interested in supporting the program can contribute in various ways. Financial donations, sponsorships, and in-kind contributions are all welcome. By investing in this program, supporters can make a tangible difference in the lives of the students and the communities they will serve.
Conclusion
The Nursing Assistantship Course at Montfort Academy represents a beacon of hope for many rural youth in Goa. By providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to become professional caregivers, this initiative promises to make a significant impact on both the healthcare sector and the lives of the students.
The collaboration between Montfort Academy, the Rotary Club of Panaji, and Veejay Facility Management is a powerful example of how community efforts can drive positive change and create a brighter future for all.
In a time where the healthcare sector is facing unprecedented challenges, initiatives like the Nursing Assistantship Course at Montfort Academy are crucial. They not only address the immediate need for skilled caregivers but also pave the way for a more compassionate and well-equipped healthcare system. As the program grows and evolves, it holds the promise of transforming lives and strengthening communities, one trained caregiver at a time.
