NML-ISSUE 7 VOL 2 DEC 2024

TRANSFORMING NURSING AND MIDWIFERY REGULATION THROUGH DIGITAL INNOVATION AND CONTINUOUS LEARNING

Dear Colleagues,

Ms. Christine Nimwesiga is the Registrar, Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council

Dear Colleagues,

As we close another impactful year, I am filled with pride and gratitude for the strideswe have made together as the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council (UNMC). Our collective efforts to elevate the nursing and midwifery professions continue to bear fruit, creating a brighter future for healthcare in Uganda. The Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council was established by the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Act, 1996, as the regulatory body mandated to oversee the training, registration, and practice of nurses and midwives in Uganda. We are dedicated to promoting the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct to safeguard public health and elevate the professions of nursing and midwifery.

Our core responsibilities include:

• Registration and Licensure: Certifying qualified professionalsto practice nursing and midwifery.

• Regulation of Training together with MOES departments: Ensuring training institutions meet set standards for producing competent practitioners.

• Promotion of Ethical Practice: Enforcing the professional code of conduct to uphold the dignity and integrity of the professions.

• Advocacy and Research: Partnering with stakeholders to inform policy and promote evidencebased practice.

Online Registration and Licensure

One of our most significant achievements this year has been the successful implementation and adoption of the Online Registration and Licensure System (ORLS). This transformative platform has redefined service delivery at the Council by making registration and licensure more accessible, efficient, and transparent.

Key highlights include:

• Improved Access: More than 70% of nurses and midwives are now registered or licensed through the ORLS, eliminating geographical barriers.

• Enhanced Data Integrity: Accurate and up-to-date information now supports workforce planning and strategic decision-making.

• Empowered Practitioners: Real-time updates and notifications on the platform promote transparency and accountability.

These achievements align with our commitment to strengthening nursing and midwifery regulation to meet national health goals and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Focus for the Next Financial Year: Research and Continuous Professional Development (CPD)

As we look ahead, the Council is committed to advancing the professions through Research and Continuous Professional Development (CPD).

1. Promoting Evidence-Based Practice Through Research:

• Research Agenda: Establishing a national research agenda for nursing and midwifery to address critical healthcare challenges.

• Collaboration: Partnering with academic institutions, health facilities, and international organizations to foster research and innovation.

• Capacity Building: Providing training on research methodologies and creating opportunities for nurses and midwives to publish in peer-reviewed journals.

2. Enhancing Competencies Through CPD:

• Digital CPD Integration: Developing an integrated CPD tracking system within the ORLS, allowing practitioners to document learning milestones.

• Innovative Learning Models: Launching blended learning programs that combine online modules with hands-on training.

• Specialized CPD Areas: Introducing courses in leadership, technology in healthcare, and specialized care to meet emerging health needs.

• Regional Outreach: Expanding access to CPD opportunities at the district level, ensuring inclusivity for all practitioners.

• Recognition of Excellence: Establishing an award system to honor outstanding CPD achievements and inspire lifelong learning.

Our Vision for 2025 and Beyond

By prioritizing research and CPD, we aim to build a resilient, empowered nursing and midwifery workforce capable of delivering high-quality care. These initiatives will support Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and ensure that Uganda remains at the forefront of healthcare innovation.

I call upon all nurses and midwives to actively engage in these programs, share their experiences, and contribute to shaping the future of our professions. Together, let us continue to build a legacy of excellence and impact for generations to come.

Warm regards, Nimwesiga Christine Registrar, Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council