By Twink Jones Gadama
In a bid to enhance the quality of nursing education and strengthen the healthcare sector in Malawi, the Nurses and Midwives Council of Malawi (NMCM) has resolved to phase out the three-year Registered Nurse (RN) and two-year Upgrading Registered Nurse Midwife (RNM) university diploma programs.
The decision, made during the Council’s 121st session on September 17, 2024, is based on recommendations from the QUADRIAD (QUAD) Committee, which comprises representatives from regulatory bodies, professional associations and unions, training institutions, and policy and practice sectors within the nursing and midwifery profession.
According to the NMCM, the assessment revealed that despite differences in competence levels among NMT, RN, and RNM graduates, all cadres were recruited at the same grade in the job market, as all diploma qualifications were treated equally. However, from a professional standpoint, RNM and NMT graduates have distinct competence levels.
Following a thorough cost-benefit analysis with key stakeholders, the task force recommended retaining the NMT diploma program while phasing out the RN and RNM diploma programs. The Council adopted this recommendation, paving the way for a significant shift in nursing and midwifery education in Malawi.
Going forward, diploma-level training will be limited to the Nursing and Midwifery Technician (NMT) programs. Furthermore, the Council determined that future professional upgrades should transition directly to Bachelor of Science (BSc) programs rather than diploma programs. This means that NMTs, RNs, and RNMS seeking further qualifications should enroll in BSc Nursing and Midwifery programs.
The NMCM has assured all stakeholders that this change will not affect individuals currently enrolled in training or those already registered with the NMCM. The existing Diploma RN/RNM register will remain active. Training institutions offering the affected diploma programs are advised that the 2025 intake will be the final cohort, expected to graduate in 2028.
The phasing out of diploma programs in favor of Bachelor’s degrees is a significant development in Malawi’s healthcare sector. The move is expected to enhance the quality of nursing education and strengthen the healthcare system in the country.
Institutions such as Mzuzu University are already offering Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Midwifery programs, which aim to produce competent and multi-skilled graduates who can deliver both theoretical and clinical academic programs in nursing and midwifery.
The NMCM has acknowledged that this transition may raise questions and concerns. The Council remains committed to supporting all stakeholders through this change and is available to provide guidance and address any queries.
As Malawi’s healthcare sector continues to evolve, the phasing out of diploma programs in favor of Bachelor’s degrees is a significant step towards enhancing the quality of nursing education and strengthening the healthcare system in the country.
What This Means for Nursing and Midwifery Students
– The 2025 intake will be the final cohort for the affected diploma programs, expected to graduate in 2028.
– Individuals currently enrolled in training or those already registered with the NMCM will not be affected by this change.
– Future professional upgrades will transition directly to Bachelor of Science (BSc) programs rather than diploma programs.
– Institutions such as Mzuzu University are already offering Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Midwifery programs.
The Way Forward
The NMCM’s decision to phase out diploma programs in favor of Bachelor’s degrees is a significant development in Malawi’s healthcare sector. As the country continues to work towards enhancing the quality of nursing education and strengthening the healthcare system, it is essential that all stakeholders work together to ensure a smooth transition.
The NMCM’s commitment to supporting all stakeholders through this change is a positive step towards achieving this goal. As Malawi’s healthcare sector continues to evolve, it is essential that the country remains focused on producing high-quality nursing and midwifery professionals who can deliver exceptional care to patients.
