On May 22nd, 2024, I had the privilege of conducting a UPG mini-training for a dedicated group of students at St. Luke’s Anglican Hospital College of Nursing Sciences in Wusasa Zaria. This session aimed to empower these future nurses with the knowledge and tools to become positive citizen leaders within the healthcare sector.
The training unfolded by introducing the UPG Four Pillars – awareness, belief, collaboration, and community– as a foundational framework for positive action. We then delved into the wider context of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), highlighting their critical role in driving global progress.
The focus then narrowed to a deeper exploration of SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and SDG 4 (Quality Education). Through interactive discussions, we explored how these future nurses can directly contribute to achieving these crucial goals. By understanding the importance of preventive healthcare education and actively promoting healthy practices within their communities, student nurses can become powerful agents of change.
This UPG mini-training served as a springboard for student engagement. By equipping them with the knowledge of the UPG principles and their alignment with the SDGs, particularly in the context of healthcare, the session empowered them to integrate these values into their future careers. Ultimately, the training aimed to cultivate a generation of nurses who are not only skilled medical professionals but also responsible and active citizens, shaping a healthier and more equitable future.
