The Government of Vanuatu has reaffirmed health and education as national priorities, announcing full government scholarships for all students enrolled in the new Bachelor of Nursing Conversion Program, delivered in partnership with Pacific Adventist University (PAU), including those enrolled in the BA Bachelor of Arts in Nursing Conversion and all nursing diploma students currently studying in the country.

Speaking at the official launch on Tuesday, Acting Prime Minister Hon. Johnny Koanapo Rasou said the partnership between the Vanuatu Government, PAU, and the Seventh-day Adventist Mission reflects long-standing regional cooperation, shared values, and a commitment to quality, value-based education.

Hon. Rasou said the introduction of the Bachelor of Nursing Conversion Program marks a major milestone in strengthening Vanuatu’s health workforce, particularly for long-serving nurses who have supported communities for decades without the opportunity to upgrade their qualifications.

“This is not simply about upgrading certificates. It is about raising standards, improving service delivery, and strengthening patient care in our hospitals, health centres, and communities,” he said.

Under the program, 54 diploma nurses—many of whom have served communities for more than 25 years—will complete a regionally recognised bachelor’s degree in nursing within one year. The qualification is accredited by PAU and recognised across the Pacific region.

He said the government’s investment in nurses is an investment in national resilience, as a strong health system is essential to national development and social wellbeing.

Hon. Rasou also stressed the importance of equity in health care, saying leaders should not seek medical treatment overseas while ordinary citizens rely on local services.

He said the government is determined to improve health services for everyone, ensuring that all people—regardless of status—receive quality care within Vanuatu, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the national health system.

Nurse in Charge at the Surgical Ward at Vila Central Hospital and one of the program’s students, Darren Vire, welcomed the initiative, saying continued education is critical to improving health services nationwide.

“When nurses upgrade their knowledge, the health service of the country moves forward. Health is a priority, and I encourage those already working, and students planning their careers, to choose health and continue to upskill,” he said.

The Bachelor of Nursing Conversion Program combines online learning with face-to-face sessions, scheduled between January and February. This flexible approach allows nurses to remain in their communities while studying, while still accessing PAU lecturers, online learning materials, and digital libraries. The first graduation of locally trained PAU Bachelor of Nursing students is expected in September next year.

The launch also included the Postgraduate Diploma in Education (Secondary) Program, delivered through the same partnership. A total of 33 participants, including teachers, deputy principals, principals, and registrars from Adventist institutions, are enrolled. Participants come from early childhood, primary, and secondary education levels.

Both programs are supported through a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education and Training, and Pacific Adventist University, highlighting the government’s commitment to strengthening the health and education sectors through strategic partnerships and long-term workforce development.