Overview:
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been an unsafe place to live for many years and is subject to sporadic outbreaks of violence. Life expectancy is low, and trained health professionals are rare, particularly outside the capital city. Training general practitioner and nursing staff in one of the worst affected areas will bring about long-term benefits to this African nation. The project co-funds medical practitioner and nursing students in their second year onwards (once students have proven their commitment and reliability). Funding covers 80% of the cost of a year’s tuition, leaving students to also contribute to the cost of their education. This co-funding further ensures commitment and dedication. This is our 11th year of supporting this project!
What we like about it:
DRC needs more locally trained healthcare workers to rebuild the nation and serve its people. We like that students are only chosen after their first year, and that they continue to contribute to the cost of their education as it demonstrates their commitment (20%). We are excited to see results, as some of our earlier trained doctors and nurses are now working in DRC, making a difference in the lives of traumatised women in particular.
Budget:
$16,800 per year. $330 provides training for a nurse for one year and $1,000 will train a doctor for a year. It takes four years to train a nurse and seven years to train a doctor. The modest budget for this project will provide 80% of the training costs for 12 nurses and 12 doctors for one academic year.
The Need:
This is a nation fraught with political instability, riots and senseless violence. Rape and sexual abuse has been a tool of war, and there are many traumatised communities trying to rebuild their lives. The training hospital specialises in the treatment of traumatised women. DRC has 0.11 physician per 1,000 people (compared to Australia’s 0.25) and 0.5 nurses per 1,000 people (compared to Australia’s 10). The need is huge. The country still suffers political instability and all suffer as a consequence.
Life Change:
