WNB school of nursing enhances digital learning
The West New Britain School of Nursing [WNBSON] received a major financial boost of K250,000.00 from Governor Sasindran Muthuvel, for its Information Communication Technology [ICT] laboratory project.
Muthuvel made the presentation witnessed by WNBSON students, staff, and the senior management team of the Provincial Health Authority in Kimbe.
He was accompanied by Deputy Governor and Talasea Local Level Government [LLG] President John Rova, Hoskins LLG President Kevin Ragi, and Provincial Administration officers.
The funding, sourced directly from the WNB Trust Fund, will enable the institution to set up its ICT infrastructure to enhance student research and digital learning.
Muthuvel praised the school's growth despite starting from humble beginnings, which had successfully graduated eight batches of students since its establishment.
He said the provincial government was continuously seeking further assistance from the National Government and the Department of Health for infrastructure upgrades.
WNBSON acting Principal Florence Makele thanked Governor Muthuvel and the Provincial Government, stating that the funding was timely for the school's digital development.
Muthuvel also presented an additional K100,000.00 to the Curative Health Directorate for the procurement of essential medical supplies following a submission by the WNBPHA.
WNBPHA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Joseph Nale acknowledged the Provincial Government and Administration for their continued financial backing over the years.
Dr. Nale clarified that the K250,000 component was part of a K500,000 commitment facilitated through the provincial ICT directorate to improve nursing education in the province.
He acknowledged the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, the Provincial Administration, and the planning team for recognizing digital platforms as a priority.
Dr. Nale said WNBSON was moving towards a paperless policy environment where learning would be delivered entirely on a digital platform.
"When we see leadership recognizing that kind of technology and supporting us, that gives us the comfort and confidence," he said.
He also revealed that another K500,000.00 allocation from the Provincial Government for a provincial HIV/AIDS building was ready to be released to the WNBPHA.
The funding will go toward the construction of a one-stop-shop facility for patients requiring specialized services.