Uni conducts first midwifery training outside province

THE University of Goroka says 30 of its students have done their urban clinical training outside of Eastern Highlands for the first time since it commenced its midwifery programme.
The 30, comprising 13 second- year students and 17 first-year students, were attached at to Sir Joseph Nombri Hospital in Kundiawa, Chimbu.
This was home for the next three weeks in which the students befriended locals, hospital and guest house staff as well as gaining the experience of working with expatriate specialists.
Midwifery coordinator Clerah Goveh said that it was the first time for students to practise urban clinical placement. She said despite losing eight weeks of urban placement due to the first Covid-19 lockdown, three weeks was so hectic to complete clinical one and four assessments.
“Nearing the final week of clinical practical, the theory assessment was also captured to allow the students to successfully complete the clinical and theory components of their academic studies for both cohorts simultaneously,” Goveh said.
Goveh said four midwifery staff worked three shifts a day to supervise the clinical assessments.
Dr John Tonar from Kundiawa Hospital thanked the students on behalf of the hospital and the health authority.
He said the obstetrics and gynaecology department were happy to facilitate the students on their placement.