UTM Debuts BSc Nursing Top-Up, Welcoming 132 Healthcare Professionals

The University of Technology of Mauritius (UTM) celebrated International Nurses Day on Thursday 22nd May, honoring the vital role of nurses in the country’s healthcare system. As part of the event, the university’s School of Health Sciences (SHS) officially launched a new BSc (Hons) Nursing Top-Up program, aimed at strengthening nursing training in Mauritius.

The program is designed to boost the skills of nursing professionals through advanced university education.

UTM’s initiative reflects its commitment to developing higher-level training for nurses and supporting career growth in the healthcare sector.

The event was attended by notable figures, including Dr. Ismet D.I. Nawoor, Director of Health Services; Krist Dhurmah, President of the Nursing Council of Mauritius; Bagooaduth Kallooa, Nursing Supervisor at Subramania Bharati Eye Hospital; Dr. Dinesh Kumar Hurreeram, UTM Director General; Professor Kavi Kumar Khedo, UTM Deputy Director; and Nikita Peeroo, UTM Registrar.

Dr. Rajendranath Goordoyal, Head of the School of Health Sciences, emphasized the importance of ongoing professional development for nurses.

He explained that the new BSc (Hons) Nursing Top-Up was created in response to feedback from healthcare stakeholders.

The program aims to meet the growing demand for specialized nursing skills and help healthcare workers advance their careers.

He noted that the first batch already includes 132 students showing strong interest.

Dr. Hurreeram expressed his appreciation for nurses across Mauritius. He said the program goes beyond academic training, aligning with the evolving needs of the country’s health system.

“With rising health challenges such as non-communicable diseases and an aging population, Mauritius needs nurses with advanced skills, critical thinking, and leadership abilities,” he stated.

“This degree bridges the gap between basic training and postgraduate excellence, enabling nurses to innovate, lead, and improve care standards.”

The second part of the celebration focused on recognizing nurses’ dedication and resilience. Through heartfelt stories, inspiring talks, and acknowledgments, UTM honored nurses’ daily contributions to public health.

Speakers highlighted the central role of nurses in Mauritius’ healthcare system, especially when facing numerous challenges.

They called for better working environments, ongoing training, and full recognition of nursing’s value — not only for health but also for economic growth.

Dr. Nawoor reaffirmed the Ministry of Health’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with academic institutions like UTM to improve healthcare services and human resources.

Dhurmah emphasized the importance of the Nursing Council of Mauritius and the significance of Nurses Day.

This event underscored UTM’s broader goal of advancing the nursing profession and enhancing healthcare quality in Mauritius.

Source: Le Mauricien