June 03, 2005
As part of the release of the five-year
progress report on Manitoba’s Nursing Strategy, Health Minister Tim Sale today acknowledged
the success of the French Language Nursing Diploma Program at the Collège
Universitaire de Saint-Boniface (CUSB).
“Since this program was established in 2001,
there have been 13 students who have graduated,” said Sale. “Many of these nurses have now gone on to
provide valuable professional services in bilingual health institutions or in
francophone communities throughout
Manitoba.”
“We have recognized the need for French-speaking nurses in our health
institutions and are confident the graduates of this program will help meet the
needs of francophone Manitobans throughout the province,” said Advanced
Education and Training Minister Diane McGifford.
Of the thirteen graduates, eight have pursued
studies at the baccalaureate level and will be receiving the bachelor of
science in nursing degree from the University of Ottawa at a ceremony which
will take place in Saint Boniface on June 21.
The majority of graduates have found employment in a variety of Manitoba
settings
“The nurses graduating from the French-language
program at CUSB are helping to improve the bilingual nature of many health
institutions across the province,” said Greg Selinger, minister responsible for
French-language services. “We are pleased
that the program has been successful and that nurses in Manitoba can get their
education in both official languages.”
“The availability of a French language nursing program that allows students to train and work in Manitoba will further enhance the quality and relevance of health services offered in our province,” said Charlotte Walkty, directrice, École technique et professionnelle, Collège universitaire de Saint-Boniface. “The École technique et professionnelle of the Collège universitaire de Saint-Boniface is proud of the success of its first diploma nursing graduates of June 2004 and we are pleased to report that these first graduates have obtained very satisfactory results on the national examination.”
Research conducted by CUSB shortly before the
diploma program was created showed students from French and immersion schools
would register for a French nursing program if one was made available.
The diploma program, offered at Ècole
technique et professionnelle at CUSB, is delivered over three academic years
and assists students to develop the required skills for various health-care
settings. According to the Council on
Post-Secondary Education (COPSE), the program has a total of 76 students
enrolled for the current academic year.
“The biggest challenge provincial governments
have in delivering health care is addressing the need for skilled health
workers,” said Sale. “Through Manitoba
Nursing Strategy initiatives, the government will continue to be aggressive in
providing education and training opportunities for students looking for a
career in the health sector.”
Funding for the French Language Nursing
Diploma Program originated from the Department of Advanced Education’s College
Expansion Initiative.
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