The University of the West Indies (UWI) Five Islands Campus officially launched its Preceptorship Programme, a transformative initiative designed to guide and prepare final-year nursing students for the transition from university training into professional practice.
The launch featured remarks from several distinguished speakers, including Minister of Health, Sir Molwyn Joseph, who highlighted the vital role mentorship plays in shaping the next generation of nurses and strengthening the nation’s healthcare system.
“Nursing is not just a profession—it is a calling that requires discipline, compassion, and resilience,” Sir Molwyn said. “Programmes like this one help to mould young nurses before they ever fully enter the healthcare system. When we invest in mentorship at this critical stage, we are strengthening the quality of care across our nation.”
He also noted that while mentorship had previously been delivered largely through virtual platforms, the Five Islands Campus has now made it possible for students to benefit from face-to-face engagement.
The University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus has now provided the opportunity for this important work to be done in person—where real connections are built, professional standards are reinforced, and young nurses are truly prepared for the realities of the job,” Sir Molwyn added.
The Pre-Mentorship Programme offers structured support through academic guidance, professional coaching, leadership development, and exposure to clinical and workplace expectations. It is designed to ensure that students entering the healthcare workforce are confident, ethically grounded, and well prepared to meet the demands of modern nursing.
Campus officials emphasized that the initiative reflects UWI Five Islands’ commitment to excellence in healthcare education and student success.
“This programme allows us to provide targeted support at a critical point in our students’ journey, ensuring they leave our campus not only qualified, but confident and career-ready,” a campus representative said.
The launch brought together government officials, university administrators, faculty, nursing students, and healthcare stakeholders, highlighting a shared commitment to building a strong, compassionate, and highly skilled nursing workforce for Antigua and Barbuda and the wider Caribbean.