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Dr Reg and Dr Catherine came to Ethiopia
in 1959 with the intention of starting a Midwifery School. In the
event, there were no funds available to enable them to turn this into
reality and whilst working in the state Maternity Hospital, they
were overwhelmed by the plight of so many women with childbirth injuries, known as
fistulas. It was to be nearly 50 years before their original purpose
of setting up a Midwifery School could be brought to fruition.
The College has received accreditation
from the Ministry of Health and will graduate its first fully-trained
midwives in 2010, who will emerge with a BSc. Studies include labour and
delivery, ante-natal and post-natal care, family planning, HIV/AIDS
counselling and community visiting. The students undertake clinical
placements each year. The aim of the Midwifery College is to
train community midwives who are willing to return "home" and help their neighbours, their sisters and their friends to have safe deliveries.
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At the beginning of February 2010,
Jacqueline Bernhard took over as Dean of the College. Jacqueline has
significant experience both in clinical and academic work in Europe and
Africa. She will be a great asset to the College. Annette Bennett,
previously acting Dean, will continue as Vice Dean with responsibilities in
the area of clinical work and the deployment of our midwives into the
countryside. |
As with all ventures
carrying the Hamlin name, the standards are extremely high and other African
countries are following the progress and asking to send their own
candidates. Lighting a candle for Africa is truly happening.
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The College is pleased to have Dr Barbara Kwast from the Netherlands
periodically to work with the students and
staff. Dr Kwast has accompanied the students on placements and has
been pleased with their performances.
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Barbara Kwast (far left) with guests and staff |
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In 2009,
one of the UK Trustees, Beverley Stewart, who is
a Supervisor of Midwives at Birmingham Women's
Hospital, spent 6 months assisting in a teaching capacity at the Midwifery
College. She was able to introduce the most up-to-date methods of
teaching and working to the staff and students and her contribution was much
appreciated. She has been asked to return periodically.
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Midwifery students with candles lit for Africa (Bev Stewart
at far right) |
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Everyone is looking forward with pride to the
graduation of the first students later in 2010. |
