Coursera nursing assistant programme is a big boost in Guyana’s health care

Dear Editor,
It is most awesome and quite timely that the “Health Ministry (is) seeking to revolutionise nursing assistant programme.” The details show that it is launching a ‘“hybrid programme on (the) Coursera platform’”. As we know and appreciate, there is a big move “… towards revolutionising nursing education in the country… (and this is) by partnering with the renowned Coursera online platform to introduce the Hybrid Nursing Assistant training programme.” As stated, “The collaboration aims to make quality healthcare training accessible to all individuals, ensuring that aspiring nurses have the opportunity to enhance their skills and knowledge.”
On this note of the nursing assistant programme and personnel, I have a few important remarks.
First, we all need to understand that the role is quite vital and necessary. There is nothing menial nor trivial about nursing assistants, sometimes deemed as ‘care aides’. They are versatile and may work in hospital wards and in a growing range of private and public long-term care facilities. These include group homes, hospices, and facilities focused on acute care, multi-level/complex care, dementia care, assisted living, mental health, and pre- and post-surgery care. Hence, there is the need to pay them well, after making sure that they are well-trained and certified. So, I do commend the People’s Progressive Party/Civic for its work in this area.
Secondly, I feel the need to elaborate on why there is the plan to incorporate these nursing assistants into the Coursera Platform.
In terms of the duties and responsibilities, expert preparation is needed. Worldwide, in places where healthcare is given its rightful place, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) represent an essential part of the patient-care team. In assisting the medical staff, CNAs not only provide physical care for patients but also emotional and spiritual support, truly making a difference in the lives of patients and families.
As Certified Nursing Assistants, these loving souls help patients with their basic needs. Generally, this means helping them bathe, dress and feed themselves. These patients might include stroke victims, the elderly residents of nursing homes, or individuals recovering from an accident, injuries or surgeries in a hospital. This is ‘no mean’ task, and not any ‘Tom, Dick or Harry’ can do it.
I inform readers that the ‘profession’ demands a special kind of people who are willing to be ‘educated’ in a certain way. This is why Coursera is so valuable and the PPP/C Government is investing in it. I remind all that a Coursera certificate is worth it. At the very least it shows initiative on the part of candidates, and it will surely enhance the resumes, as the certificate will show that participants are willing to work hard to get ahead. It may also put those who went through the training in a better position when competing for job, or when applying to college, just about anywhere in the world.
My word is ‘please, grab it’.
Editor, my joy is reflected in “Coursera Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jeff Matthew (who), shared his excitement and vision for the future of this initiative during the launch, emphasising the importance of not only meeting individuals’ basic needs, but also offering them access to over 50 professional certificates and seeing them receive personalised Coursera coaching while studying online”. He rightly pointed out that “… this comprehensive support system was designed to empower participants and pave the way for a successful career in nursing,” (even though all may not continue to the level of being a registered/certified nurse).
I can go on further, but will end on the note that the input from Government is proving to be wise and effective. Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony reemphasised my point that “… Government was unwavering in its commitment to improving the country’s healthcare infrastructure and raising the standard of service across all levels.” What was his great joy?
“The overwhelming response to the programme, with about 1000 nurses already enrolled and undergoing training … (and) the Ministry’s plans to establish simulation centres nationwide within the next month to provide hands-on learning experiences for participants.” It is getting better, and the figures will soar past the “… 800 individuals” already taking advantage of the online courses.

Yours truly,
HB Singh