Zimbabwe's health ministry has introduced a new quota requiring that a minimum of 75 percent of nursing trainees at any school originate from its local district or province. Deputy Minister of Health Sleiman Kwidini explained to Parliament that this policy aims to enhance local representation and eliminate corruption, following reports of applicants paying large sums to secure a placement. The directive builds on a previous decentralization of the recruitment process.
The change addresses concerns raised by legislators like Prosper Mutseyami, who noted that some regions saw entire intakes without any local candidates. Competition for nursing positions is exceptionally high, with over 100,000 applicants annually for only about 1,200 available spots. Specific institutions, including Sally Mugabe and Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, receive thousands of applications for a very limited number of seats.
Authorities expect the quota system to distribute training opportunities more fairly across communities. It is also intended to restore integrity to the admissions process and prevent corrupt intermediaries from exploiting aspiring nurses.
The change addresses concerns raised by legislators like Prosper Mutseyami, who noted that some regions saw entire intakes without any local candidates. Competition for nursing positions is exceptionally high, with over 100,000 applicants annually for only about 1,200 available spots. Specific institutions, including Sally Mugabe and Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals, receive thousands of applications for a very limited number of seats.
Authorities expect the quota system to distribute training opportunities more fairly across communities. It is also intended to restore integrity to the admissions process and prevent corrupt intermediaries from exploiting aspiring nurses.
