25/05/2025
Empowering the Frontlines: Region 3 Nurses Receive Specialized Training through RHO and NAPS Collaboration
West Demerara, Guyana – May 20–23, 2025
In a transformative step toward enhancing the quality of healthcare delivery in Region 3, a four-day training session was successfully held from May 20th to 23rd at the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH) boardroom. This training, designed to build capacity among nursing and clinical staff, was made possible through a strategic collaboration between the Office of the Regional Health Officer (RHO) and the National AIDS Programme Secretariat (NAPS).
Bringing together over 25 nurses, midwives, and allied health professionals from across the region, the initiative focused on professional development, patient-centered care, and strengthening the region’s response to communicable and non-communicable diseases. The sessions addressed critical areas such as HIV care integration, infection prevention and control, ethical medical practices, documentation, respectful maternity care, and interpersonal communication.
A Strategic Investment in People and Public Health
This partnership between the RHO and NAPS reflects a growing recognition that health sector reform begins with strengthening the frontline workforce. Nurses are not only caregivers,they are often the first point of contact for patients, and their role in treatment, education, and prevention is irreplaceable.
“This training represents our shared commitment to a stronger, more compassionate, and more effective health system,” said Dr. Erica Forte, Regional Health Officer of Region 3. “With the support of NAPS, we were able to tailor this programme to meet the real and urgent needs of our nurses,not just in theory, but in daily practice.”
By incorporating modules on HIV stigma reduction and confidentiality, the training also aligned with national public health goals to eliminate discrimination and improve access to care for vulnerable populations.
A Space for Learning, Sharing, and Growing
Beyond the classroom-style sessions, the training created a safe space for dialogue and peer learning. Participants engaged in scenario-based activities and team-building exercises that helped break down barriers and build trust among healthcare workers from different facilities.
“I feel more confident and more connected with my colleagues,” shared one nurse. “It was a space to grow, not just professionally but personally. I feel proud to be a part of this movement for better care.”
The atmosphere throughout the four days was one of reflection, rejuvenation, and recommitment to the core values of healthcare: empathy, integrity, and excellence.
Region 3 Leading by Example
This joint initiative is part of Region 3’s broader vision to strengthen all levels of healthcare,from community-based health posts to regional hospitals. By investing in both infrastructure and the people who make the system work, the region is setting a national example of what it means to deliver people-centered, equitable healthcare.
The training ended on a high note with words of encouragement from senior health officials, and renewed pledges to uphold the principles of quality care and professional responsibility.
As Region 3 continues to advance its public health agenda, partnerships like the one between the RHO and NAPS are a testament to what is possible when vision meets collaboration.
Together, we are not only training nurses, we are building a healthier, stronger Guyana.
