CPIT Nursing students test skills in Africa

CPIT Bachelor of Nursing students put their skills to the test in Africa

While recent nursing graduates will be exploring their employment options over the next few months, Katie Dewhirst and Kathryn Bell are heading in a different direction, literally.

The two CPIT Bachelor of Nursing students are travelling to Africa where they will put their nursing skills to the test by turning their passion for aid work into a reality.

Both Katie (21) and Kathryn (20) will finish their study in July this year and graduate in September, but before then, they will spend three weeks in Arusha, Tanzania volunteering at Camp Joshua Orphanage.

“My grandparents are founding members of the Camp Joshua Orphanage and they have given us the opportunity to go over there and help where we can, especially with the kids, teaching them about hygiene for example, and really making the most of the experience,” says Katie.

“I’ve always had a heart for aid work. I’ve been before, when I finished high school, so after realising that what you see on TV is actually real, I wanted to go again and this is the perfect opportunity.”

Kathryn, whose own travels include trips to India and Chile, is thrilled to be able to make a difference to those in need at Camp Joshua.

“I remember going over to India and expecting the poverty to be heart-breaking - and it really was. But, it was not until I came home that I realised just how fortunate we are. That experience really made me appreciate what I have,” she says.

“CPIT has really helped ground us in realising the importance of aid work – we are just so excited and blessed to be given the opportunity to help out at the Camp Joshua Orphanage.”

Both Katie and Kathryn are aware of the basic-need environment they will be working in, but are equally, if not more so, excited about spreading some cheer amongst the children at the orphanage, and helping out with essential health and medical needs.

“We know it’s going to be pretty basic over there. The kids are really lacking in joy. They have a concrete slab for a playground and there aren’t enough helpers to look after them,” says Katie.

“So, we’re looking forward to having some fun with the kids - we’re taking toys and games over and we’ve got big box of hand-knitted jerseys that has been donated to us specifically for the trip – which is awesome!

“If we could take basic medical supplies with us like dressings that would be great – they have so little over there. We will be taking our nursing books over so that we can help treat things like headlice for example, and other basic health problems. We both just want to make a difference,” she says.

Karen Edgecombe, CPIT’s Clinical Practice Unit Coordinator, says the experience is going to enrich the students’ nursing experience.

“The Bachelor of Nursing programme equips students with a variety of communication skills, health assessment and knowledge for all kinds of health situations. I am thrilled that Kathryn and Katie will be able to use their knowledge and skills in Tanzania prior to starting their jobs as new graduates,” says Karen.

“Both students have demonstrated that they are passionate and dedicated to caring for people and pushing their own boundaries in terms of comfort, cultures and exposure to a variety of health situations. I am sure that they will have an amazing experience in Tanzania - I wish them well and look forward to hearing their stories and experiences when they come home.”

Katie and Kathryn will leave for Tanzania in July, and are currently seeking donations and sponsorship towards the building of a new dormitory at Camp Joshua.

ENDS

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