As Kamuzu College of Nursing (KCN), a constituency college of University of Malawi (UNIMA) is clocking 50 years of its existence in providing quality health care training in the country and abroad has launched nursing and midwifery Journal.
The Journal which is the first of its kind in Malawi will be publishing research works, studies, position papers on best health care practices written by different people from Malawi and other countries in the world.
The Journal launch was an availed on Wednesday, June 10, 2015 at KCN campus in the capital Lilongwe which coincided with the holding of the symposium which attracted former lectures, principals, students who unpacked the journey the college has gone through with vast experience in nursing services provision.
Speaking in an interview after presiding over the two events, Sheila Bandazi, Director of Nursing and Midwifery Services in the Ministry Health told the Maravi Post that the college has done a recommendable work in improving the public’s health care through its highly trained personnel.
Bandazi said lack of resources to retain such trained personnel was a major challenge which is contributing to dwindling of high quality of health services in public health facilities as many of them prefer working in private hospitals, institutions and also migrating abroad for green pastures.
“The symposium was vital as it offers an opportunity the upcoming nurses of what the professional is it all about, learning from what former principals, lectures and students contributed to the welfare of Malawians and other nationals.
“With such rich in history by training highly health personnel, the country could have helped much but the challenge lies in retaining them into our public health facilities due to insufficient of resources which has prompted them to work in private institution even migrating to other countries for better working condition. This trend has to stop by proving them with better salaries, promotions and motivation”, explains Bandazi.
Later the Maravi Post caught up with Professor Address Malata, KCN’s Principal who highlighted much on the Journal saying the development was a sign of maturity the college has shown in provision of tertiary education for improved health care services which needed documentation.
Professor Malata said recognition of any college or university lies on research work, studies, and position papers once are published in one document for others to learn hence the launch of the Journal.
“KCN is one of the leading health institutions on nursing and midwifery in Africa. So, without research work, studies published then we are nothing but a poster. Our work should inspire and change others for better quality provision of health care.
“The Journal will attract any individual with research work which is to change the professional for the better. We are emphasizing on attitude, good morals and empathy among our trained personnel which are integral part of this noble course to serve others”, assures Professor Malata.
Kamuzu College of Nursing (KCN) has now 25
