Health
TCICC’s First Batch of Registered Nursing Students Embark on Clinical Rotation in Jamaica
#TurksandCaicos, June 12, 2023 – The TCI Community College (TCICC) has achieved a significant milestone as the first batch of registered nursing cohorts departs for their clinical rotation at the University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) in Kingston, Jamaica. This clinical rotation is made possible through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between TCICC and UHWI, solidifying their partnership in advancing nursing education and training.
A small delegation, including esteemed guests and officials, gathered at the Howard Hamilton International Airport to bid farewell to the nursing students as they embarked on this transformative journey. The delegation included the Minister of Education, Hon. Rachel Taylor; TCICC President, Dr. Candice Williams; Dean of Academics at TCICC, Suzette Creary; Chief Executive Officer of InterHealth Canada – Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital, Dr. Denise Braithwaite; Chief Nursing Officer, Mrs. Jackurlyn Sutton; Attorney General, Rhondalee Braithwaite-Knowles; and Education Manager, Vernessa Forbes.
This momentous occasion holds great significance for TCICC and, by extension, the Turks and Caicos Islands as it marks the first group of home-grown nurses. The implications of this achievement are far-reaching and hold the potential to enhance the healthcare system in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
In a statement, the Hon. Rachel Taylor expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership between TCICC and UHWI, while congratulating the nursing students. She emphasized the importance of gaining the necessary experience and exposure in dealing with critical situations abroad. The minister also commended the lecturers at TCICC for their instrumental role in the students’ success and affirmed that this experience would strengthen the capacity of nursing cohorts at InterHealth Canada. Furthermore, the minister added that the Government is committed to developing its Human Capital through education and training. Finally, Hon Taylor hinted at TCICC’s plans to offer the nursing program at a bachelor’s level in the near future, encouraging interested individuals in the Turks and Caicos Islands to enroll at TCICC.
Dr. Candice Williams, the President/CEO of TCICC, echoed the sentiments of Hon. Taylor, expressing her elation at the opportunity for the students to complete their final rotations through the tripartite MOU. Dr. Williams remarked that this day would be etched in the history books of the Turks and Caicos Islands, emphasizing the dedication and support of Dr. Braithwaite, Chief Nurse Sutton, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Education for providing students with world-class education and training as they completed the majority of their clinical rotations at the Cheshire Hall and Cockburn Town Medical centres, as well as the Wellness Centre in Grand Turk. Students were provided world-class education and training in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Dr. Denise Braithwaite, CEO of InterHealth Canada, conveyed her best wishes to the nursing students on their clinical rotation. Recognizing the high demand for nurses globally, she expressed pride in the collaborative efforts of the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, TCICC’s leadership, and the steering committee in facilitating this
Ms. Suzette Creary, Dean of Academics at TCICC, also expressed joy at the students’ completion of their clinical rotations. She encouraged individuals to apply to TCICC’s nursing program, highlighting the robust curriculum and knowledgeable lecturers that provide world-class training.
The clinical rotation will run from now until December, offering the students a substantial duration to immerse themselves in a genuine healthcare environment and acquire indispensable hands-on experience. Under the guidance of their mentors and instructors, they will navigate diverse medical scenarios, refining their skills and augmenting their clinical expertise. As the rotation nears its conclusion, these dedicated students will approach their final regional examinations, showcasing the proficiency and knowledge they have gained during their intensive training. This significant milestone represents the culmination of their journey, opening doors for them to enter the healthcare realm as capable and compassionate professionals.
TCI Community College remains committed to advancing various education and training initiatives that foster growth and development. Looking ahead, TCICC envisions becoming the first choice for education and training in the Turks and Caicos Islands and beyond, with a focus on the future of nursing in the TCI.
Photo Caption:
President of TCICC, Dr. Candice Williams, Chief Executive Officer of InterHealth Canada – Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital, Dr. Denise Braithwaite, Education Manager, Vernessa Forbes, and Chief Nursing Officer, Mrs. Jackurlyn Sutton, Dean of Academics at TCICC, Suzette Creary, pose for a photo with nursing students as they embark on their clinical rotations at the University Hospital of the West Indies in Jamaica.