Fifty-six nurses were honoured by the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) on Sunday in recognition of International Nurses Day 2025, observed this year under the theme, “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for nurses strengthens economies.”
The ceremony, which began slightly behind schedule at the hospital’s East Street compound, celebrated the resilience and dedication of nurses while underscoring the challenges they face in the profession. Attendees were reminded of the core values expected of nurses—proficiency, reliability, and compassion.
Director of Nursing Services Leslyn Holder spoke candidly about the physical and emotional demands of nursing, especially for women who dominate the field.
She referenced a recent blood drive at the hospital where some 30 nurses were found ineligible to donate blood, citing this as a wake-up call. In response, she announced her intention to push for mandatory health screenings for nurses, along with structured meal times and enforced rest breaks, particularly for those on 12-hour shifts.
Chief Executive Officer of the hospital, Robbie Rambarran, praised those nurses who remained at their posts during recent unrest, which had prevented some colleagues from reporting for duty on time.
Acknowledging that a few individuals might cast a shadow on the profession, Rambarran encouraged nurses to continue standing firm. He affirmed the hospital’s ongoing commitment to their growth, well-being, and professional advancement, noting the need for strengthened leadership and mentorship across the system.
Delivering the feature address, Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony acknowledged the critical global shortage of nurses, estimated at 10 million, and detailed government efforts to expand Guyana’s nursing workforce.
Previously, nursing schools in Georgetown, Linden, and New Amsterdam collectively graduated around 200 to 250 registered nurses annually. To address the shortfall, the Ministry introduced a hybrid training model that has since seen 904 students complete their second year.
Over 1,500 students are enrolled, and an additional 1,000 are expected to join this year, with the overall target set at training 6,000 nurses within the next two to three years. This expansion comes in preparation for opening six new hospitals across the country before the end of 2025.
Dr. Anthony also announced a new partnership agreement signed with Apollo Hospitals – one of India and Asia’s largest healthcare providers. This collaboration will provide access to Medvarsity, a digital training platform designed to upskill nurses, doctors, and technicians.
Local healthcare professionals can soon pursue specialised training courses via the platform through an arrangement with the GOAL scholarship programme.
In a moment of personal reflection, Dr. Anthony urged nurses to apply the same health principles they regularly share with patients – maintaining a proper diet, getting adequate rest, and engaging in regular physical activity. He also encouraged them to conduct routine check-ups and medical tests, as they often advise others to do.
The event concluded with special recognition awards. Savita Budhram was named Nurse of the Year, while Midwife of the Year went to Dawn Allen Stewart, both receiving warm applause from colleagues for their outstanding service.
