Strengthening Neonatal Care through Specialised Training

A two-day workshop, held under the theme ‘Mastering Clinical Skills in Neonatal and Perinatal Care’, opened today at Victoria Hospital in Candos, marking the culmination of a two-week training programme conducted by Australian neonatal specialists across Mauritius’ five regional hospitals.

The initiative has benefited more than 170 nurses, midwives and doctors, with the aim of strengthening their clinical skills in caring for newborns, particularly premature and vulnerable babies.

Among those present at the opening ceremony were the Minister of Health and Wellness, Mr Anil Kumar Bachoo; the High Commissioner of Australia to Mauritius, Ms Kate Chamley; Australia-based Consultant Neonatologist, Dr Kaushik Mangroo; as well as other personalities.

In his address, Minister Bachoo underscored the importance of strengthening neonatal care, noting that while mortality associated with diabetes has declined, the neonatal mortality rate has risen slightly. He stressed that this increase highlights the need for specialised training to enhance the skills of healthcare professionals and improve neonatal care services.

Mr Bachoo also indicated that 25 neonatal ventilators, an echocardiography machine and a therapeutic cooling machine have been donated by Dr Mangroo’ organisation to support local neonatal care. He emphasised the importance of complementing these medical resources with specialised training to ensure better care for premature and vulnerable newborns.

For her part, Ms Chamley welcomed the participation of Australian neonatal specialists in the training initiative, outlining the importance of continuous professional development for healthcare personnel. She further noted that Curtin Mauritius offers students the opportunity to obtain Australian nursing qualifications and expressed pride in Mauritian professionals who have pursued such studies and are contributing to the country’s healthcare services.

15 October 2026

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Topics: Health