The University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus launched its Preceptorship Programme to guide final-year nursing students. The programme prepares students for the transition from university training to professional nursing practice.

Mentorship Strengthens Nursing Workforce

Minister of Health, Sir Molwyn Joseph, spoke at the launch. He emphasized that mentorship is essential to building a skilled and compassionate nursing workforce.

“Nursing is not just a profession—it is a calling,” he said. “Programmes like this help young nurses develop discipline, compassion, and resilience before entering the healthcare system. As a result, the quality of care improves across the nation.”

Previously, mentorship was delivered mainly online. However, the new programme allows students to engage face-to-face, strengthening real connections and reinforcing professional standards.

Programme Structure and Benefits

The Pre-Mentorship Programme provides:

• Academic guidance
• Professional coaching
• Leadership development
• Exposure to clinical and workplace expectations

Additionally, it ensures students enter the workforce confident, ethically grounded, and prepared for modern nursing challenges.

Commitment to Student Success

Campus officials highlighted that the programme reflects UWI Five Islands’ dedication to excellence in healthcare education. A campus representative said, “This initiative supports students at a critical point in their journey. They leave not only qualified but confident and career-ready.”

Launch Brings Key Stakeholders Together

The event brought together government officials, university administrators, faculty, nursing students, and healthcare stakeholders. Together, they reinforced a shared commitment to building a strong nursing workforce for Antigua and Barbuda and the wider Caribbean.

Overall, the programme strengthens healthcare in the region while giving students the tools to succeed. Furthermore, it ensures mentorship becomes a key part of professional development for future nurses.

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