Nursing students and others — Conayt Nursing agreement

Thompson Rivers University School of Nursing signed a partnership with Conayt Friendship Society, Merrit. This innovative partnership will provide culturally relevant education to nursing students and address some of the health care needs of the members of Conayt.

A signing launch that took place at Conayt Friendship Centre, Merritt, was attended by many dignitaries. Dr. Barbara Paterson, TRU Dean of Nursing, said, “The partnership is the first of its kind in BC”. She further added, “We anticipate that it will greatly enhance the learning of nursing students about Aboriginal people’s health, as well as contribute to the health of Aboriginal people within the Nicola Valley.”

The nursing students who are involved may be attracted to work with Aboriginal people upon graduation, thus addressing a critical shortage of nurses in Aboriginal communities.

Through this partnership, TRU nursing students and faculty, and Conayt Staff will develop and implement health-related projects, as well as generate proposals for research to determine the health care needs and interventions needed for Aboriginal people in the Nicola Valley.

Elders and Conayt Staff will share their knowledge and experience with nursing students, particularly in relation to the history, traditions, health issues, and political context of Aboriginal people in the Nicola Valley.

Interesting, The Conayt Friendship Society is named from the Ntlakyapamuk nation word for “helping others”, and is devoted to improve holistically the quality of life, cultural distinctivenss, and strengthening friendship and cooperation between the Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal members in Nicola Valley. They also offer numerous programs to address this aim, including programs in addiction, pre-natal health, youth support, and elder care.

Nicola Valley area Elder Elizabeth Garcia blesses the food during a ceremony on Sept. 8, 2011