Applications invited for subsidised nursing studies

THE Eastern Cape Department of Health is recruiting matriculants and current Grade 12 pupils for fully subsidised nursing training, including a R3 300 monthly stipend, accommodation, books and training.

Health spokesman Sizwe Kupelo said R20-million had been set aside to recruit matriculants in the province to become nurses in an effort to address the severe shortage of staff in the Eastern Cape. The department was offering a four-year diploma in nursing and midwifery.

Each student would receive R57 000 a year for tuition, accommodation and books.

This annual payment also included a R3 300 monthly stipend.

Kupelo said they were looking for candidates who had a matric but pupils now doing matric could also apply, using their December Grade 11 and first-term Grade 12 reports.

“Other applicants must submit valid matric certificates,” Kupelo said.

He said candidates must bring certified copies of their identity documents and proof of payment of a non-refundable R50 application fee.

“This programme is aimed at ensuring continuous production of nurses as front-runners of the province’s quality healthcare provision.”

Kupelo said successful candidates had to be available to commence their training in February.

The application fee must be paid as follows:

Account Name: Lilitha College of Nursing Bank: First National Bank Branch: Bhisho Account Number: 62407182229 Branch Code: 210619 Reference: APP – Name and Surname

Applications must be hand-delivered to the closest campus.

The Lilitha Campus in Port Elizabeth is at 58 Park Drive, Central, or at Dora Nginza Hospital.