In the past, only students pursuing science qualify for a diploma in nursing. However, from this academic session, all the class XII Arts and Commerce students are eligible to apply for the profession. This was as per the order from the Cabinet to the Bhutan Medical and Health Council.
To get through the new eligibility criteria, students should have a minimum of 40 per cent in their respective streams including English. Prior to the change, only science students with a minimum of 40 per cent in the science stream including English were qualified.
The decision was in line with the increasing demand and to explore possible avenues for the nursing profession in and outside the country.
“With this change in the criteria for admission into a diploma, now I feel that it allows another category to take up this profession. The criteria are only for admission, so once they join the nursing institute, I think they have the regular test and screening things in place. Once they graduate, they will also be assessed before getting employed,” said Dr Pandup Tshering, the Health Secretary.
According to a private nursing institute, rather than just academics, being a good nurse also depends on having good skills and aptitude.
“The academic qualification doesn’t measure the person to be a good nurse. One needs to have a genuine willingness and passion for the profession you’re taking up,” said Tshering Delma, an IT and Communication officer of Apollo Bhutan Institute of Nursing.
Those students with Arts and Commerce backgrounds are thrilled about the news and it has given hope for those who couldn’t take up science during their high school.
“Being an Arts student, this news has given me immense happiness as it has helped increased the opportunity and the courses we initially had. So, I feel that this is a great opportunity for those people who could not take up science course. I hope this new approach will open up a new career path for Arts and Commerce students as they are both equally passionate and capable,” said Sonam Tshomo, a student.
Every year, the government recruits around 100 applicants with a diploma in nursing.
Kelzang Choden
