On Thursday, October 31, 2013, Palau Community College (PCC) hosted an opening ceremony for the Fiji National University (FNU) – Bachelor of Public Health Nursing Program at the Assembly Hall.
The ceremony opened with a spiritual moment. Afterwards, a brief introduction to the program was presented by PCC Nursing Instructor Iloi Rabuka. Instructor Rabuka commended the newly formed program and pin-pointed the hurdles (such as distance and means of communication) that may come along as the program moves forward. However, she recognized the benefits such a program will have on the islands around the Pacific region.
She was followed by a special address given by PCC President Dr. Patrick U. Tellei. President Tellei emphasized the importance of the program, especially for Palau. While the difficulties may exist, he encouraged the participants to bridge the gaps through compromise and effort.
Dr. Gregory Dever gave the special remarks on behalf of the Pacific Island Health Officers’ Association (PIHOA). He shared how the program was enticing interest around the Pacific region prompting other islands to consider similar educational collaborations and paths.
A celebration cake was then presented to the participants and guests. Representatives from the program nurses and the Palau Retired Nurses were asked to cut the cake. Afterwards, a representative from the Palau Retired Nurses gave the closing remarks and vote of thanks.
The Bachelor of Public Health Nursing Program is made possible through the collaborated efforts of PCC, Palau’s Ministry of Health (MOH), and the Fiji National University (FNU). The nursing program allows registered nurses in Palau to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree of Public Health Nursing through Fiji National University. Interested nurses must have an Associate of Science (AS) Degree in Nursing in order to participate in the program.
The FNU – Public Health Nursing Program aims to improve and assist the medical workforce of Palau. By allowing registered nurses to hone their skills through continued learning experiences, Palau could rely on a medical force that is well-informed and up-to-date about information concerning health. The program will also allow young students interested in the medical field to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health Nursing without having to attend an institution off-island. This may assist the nursing force in Palau to grow.
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