The Ministry of Health & Wellness joins the global community today to celebrate International Nurses Day under the theme, “Nurses: A voice to lead: A vision for future healthcare.”
The day is celebrated on May 12th annually to commemorate the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. This year, May 6th to 12th was set aside to honor all nurses countrywide.
The theme highlights the multiple roles that nurses play and their contributions to the healthcare system. Nurses are at the center of care, functioning in various aspects including surveillance, care and treatment, prevention and promotion of health, and at the policy level. The contributions of nursing to this health system are countless.
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed livelihoods, employment and interactions with families and friends. It has affected lives immeasurably. Although faced with all these challenges, nurses continue to work persistently to safeguard Belizeans. Nurses have demonstrated their courage, compassion, and strength and they have been a shining light leading through the pandemic.
The Ministry of Health & Wellness is cognizant of the chronic shortage of nurses and is committed to addressing this through investments in the field. The ministry will invest in awarding 50 scholarships for the Practical Nursing Program at the University of Belize in August 2021. The ministry also pledges to continue over the next few years to increase the scholarships for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and will continue to make opportunities available for specialization in nursing.
This year’s Nurses Week activities include candlelight vigils, a series of webinars for continued nursing education, appreciation events, and rest and relaxation activities. These activities were planned by nurses with support from the Ministry of Health & Wellness, health facilities and the wider community.
The Ministry of Health & Wellness takes this opportunity to express appreciation to all nurses for their continued service to Belize.
Best wishes for a memorable and happy Nurses Week 2021!
