Students from the School of Nursing and Midwifery travelled to Uganda this summer, as part of their Global Health Engagement elective module

There, they undertook placements facilitated by Nurture Africa, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) that runs a summer volunteer placement programme for health sciences students. The placements took place in outreach clinics that delivered HIV healthcare, paediatric primary healthcare, and maternal and child healthcare.

Esther Walsh, Junior Sophister (3rd year) midwifery student, said:

“…was genuinely one of the most eye-opening experiences I’ve had during my studies. I spent time in the maternity unit in a health clinic supported by the charity Nurture Africa and also got involved in a wide range of community outreach work. Everything from first aid workshops and sanitary pad-making sessions to home visits and outreach clinics in more rural areas. The experience really opened my eyes to how healthcare can be delivered in a holistic, community-focused way. I was especially struck by the approach to maternity care; it was so respectful, compassionate, and centred around the woman and her needs. Even with limited resources, the care felt deeply personal and dignified.

I was encouraged to ask questions, get involved, and learn as much as possible. I never felt like just an observer; it really felt like I were part of something meaningful. Of course, there were challenging moments too, both emotionally and ethically, but those moments sparked some of the most important reflections and conversations... It’s a unique experience that has really shaped how I think about my future practice. Uganda will always have a piece of my heart."

The Global Health Engagement elective module is open to all second and third year nursing and midwifery students.