At least 71 students are set to sit for this year’s Rwanda National Nursing Council Examination at the Rwamagana Nursing and Midwifery School.

Speaking at the students’ farewell party, at the weekend, the school’s director, Sister Epiphanie Mukabaranga, expressed her gratitude to the finalists, who she said, had studied hard through their three-year course.

"The examination is the culmination of your hard work and its purpose is to prove the knowledge and skills you acquired before you go on to practicenursing,” she said to a standing ovation.

Naasson Tuyiringire, an assistant tutor in the department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, said the students were well prepared to pass the examinations.

He noted that the country awaits their help in efforts reduce maternal and infant mortality, as well as combating killer diseases such as malaria and HIV/AIDS.

"It’s easier than students think. All they need to do is review the material they haven’t read in a while,” he advised.

Chantal Uwamariya, 22, one of the students, told The New Times that she had acquired the requisite skills to carry out her professional duties once she passes, including attending to expectant mothers.

The student, however, expressed concern over inadequate medical equipment in some health centres.

The school that now offers Diploma in Nursing and Midwifery was started in 1962 by Bernardine Sisters.

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