Allexer Namundjembo
Nearly a month after graduating from the University of Namibia, many nursing graduates are still waiting for their evaluation results from the Health Professional Council of Namibia (HPCNA).
The delay is preventing them from registering and applying for jobs in the healthcare sector.
The evaluation test, held last month, is required for registration with the council. Without registration, graduates cannot apply for positions in either public or private healthcare facilities.
Several graduates, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the delay has left them frustrated and financially strained.
“Job opportunities are being released in both the public and private sectors, but we are unable to apply as we are not yet registered with the council. This is due to the delayed release of our exam results,” one graduate said.
Another graduate added that the lack of communication has made matters worse.
“It is also just depressing. Always waking up hoping that the results will be released but nothing. Even the communication from them is not good,” the source said.
Some suspect the delay could be due to the board still marking the tests.
“Maybe that is the main cause of the delay. But they need to communicate. We are almost approaching August, and we graduated in April. It is not easy for us, especially since we are not getting any financial assistance,” one graduate said.
Popular Democratic Movement (PDM) member of Parliament Winnie Moongo called the delay unacceptable.
She said nursing graduates face unnecessary administrative setbacks after completing their studies.
“Instead of contributing to the healthcare system and alleviating the current staffing shortages in our hospitals, these graduates are left at home with no clear guidance on when they will be allowed to take their exams or receive their results,” said Moongo.
She urged the HPCNA to act quickly.
“The HPCNA must address this issue urgently and take steps to ensure it does not happen again in the future,” she said.
Efforts to get a response from HPCNA CEO Cornelius Weyulu were unsuccessful.
Questions sent to his office on Monday remained unanswered.
The evaluation test was introduced to ensure that nursing graduates meet the required knowledge, skills, and competence for safe and effective practice.
It was implemented following concerns about unqualified lecturers, unapproved curricula, and increased student intakes affecting clinical training quality.
