A team of local doctors, nurses, and lab scientists from the National Referral Hospital (NRH) departed for Guizhou Province, China, on Wednesday for a three-month specialist medical training program.
The group of nine medical professionals, led by NRH urologist Dr. Augustine Melly, will participate in an intensive clinical placement at Guizhou Medical University. The program, part of a partnership between the Ministry of Health and the Chinese Government, aims to build local capacity and introduce advanced medical techniques to Solomon Islands’ healthcare system.
Among the team are Dr. Florence Fiuramo, surgical registrar; Dr. Anisha Elisha and Dr. Elisson Manegehe, both medical registrars; nurses Brymley Sade, Salome Taugata, and Densy Saohu; and lab technicians Miranda Huanimaha and Esther Marau.
Minister of Health and Medical Services, Dr. Paul Bosawai, personally bid farewell to the team at the airport, sharing words of encouragement.
“As a medical clinician myself, improving patient outcomes, reducing medical errors, and enhancing the overall quality of healthcare are critical,” Dr. Bosawai said. “You must count yourself privileged to be given this opportunity. I am counting on you to return with new knowledge and skills that will benefit not just the hospital, but the country as a whole.”
The training is designed to offer hands-on experience in modern clinical environments, with exposure to high-tech equipment and specialized procedures rarely encountered in Solomon Islands.
Dr. Anisha Elisha, who will be focusing on nephrology, expressed her enthusiasm: “This is a rare opportunity for us to grow professionally. We are excited to learn, collaborate, and bring back valuable insights to improve healthcare delivery at home.”
Participants will rotate through various hospital departments, engage in simulation labs, and attend expert-led seminars, all aimed at deepening their practical skills and medical knowledge.
“This program is more than just training,” said lab technician Esther Marau. “It’s a chance to build international friendships, learn best practices, and represent our country on a global platform.”
The initiative reflects a growing collaboration between Solomon Islands and China in medical education. Two Chinese medical experts are accompanying the group and will help facilitate the training in Guizhou.
Upon their return at the end of September, the team will resume duties at NRH’s Comprehensive Medical Center, where they are expected to implement their newly acquired expertise. While they are away, other NRH staff and the Chinese Medical Team will continue operations at the hospital.
Minister Bosawai stressed the long-term vision: “Your training is an investment in our healthcare future. What you learn today will help shape the services we deliver tomorrow.”
