US-trained Nursing Professor Boosts Njala University Nursing Skills Laboratory
Credit: Public Relations Assistant, Njala University ( Ayuba Koroma)
Njala University, Bo Campus, 21st January 2025- Dr. Nimatu Kamara, a distinguished Nursing Professor at Reading Area Community College in Pennsylvania, USA, made a significant donation of laboratory equipment to the Njala University Nursing Department on Monday, January 20, 2025. The donation included essential tools such as a first aid kit, three adult mannequins (two males and one female), a pediatric mannequin, an adolescent mannequin, and a gluteal mannequin, among other items.
During her visit, Dr. Kamara engaged with staff and students, offering words of encouragement and inspiration. She emphasized the importance of supporting male nursing students, noting that nursing has historically been perceived as a female-dominated profession. “There is no career that is exclusively for one gender. Anyone can achieve their dreams with dedication and hard work,” she remarked. Dr. Kamara also asked students about their motivations for studying nursing, and they shared personal stories that highlighted their commitment to making a difference in healthcare.
One student, Kaday Fofanah, a third-year B.Sc in Nursing student, expressed gratitude for the donation. "Thank you, Dr. Kamara, for these items. They will enhance our practical skills. We promise to make the best use of them," she said. Other nursing students also appealed for additional support, including a mini-bus for lecturers who travel long distances and rehabilitate the skills laboratory.
The Dean of the School of Community Health Sciences, Professor Rashid Ansumana, commended Dr. Kamara for her generosity and dedication to the University. “This is the type of Sierra Leonean we admire—someone who gives back positively rather than merely criticizing. We assure you that the equipment will be used responsibly,” he said. He also announced plans to elevate the School of Community Health Sciences to a College of Medicine and disclosed the intention to appoint Dr. Kamara as an adjunct professor in recognition of her contributions.
Dr. Angella Magdalene George, Head of the Department of Nursing, also expressed her appreciation. "Dr. Kamara's support is invaluable. These resources will significantly enhance our students’ learning experience," she stated.
In her remarks, Dr. Nimatu Kamara shared her educational journey, which began in Sierra Leone at Njala University College and took her to the United States, where she transitioned from nutrition to nursing. She described her passion for giving back to her homeland, recalling how she started sending books and materials to Njala University as far back as 2019. “I remember struggling to access books as a student, and it breaks my heart to see resources go unused abroad when they could be life-changing here,” she said.
The US based Nursing Professor stressed the importance of practical training for nursing students, highlighting how the donated mannequins and other equipment would enable them to practice skills in a controlled environment before working with real patients. She also urged students to prioritize empathy and care in their nursing practice. "Patients need more than treatment; they need care and compassion. Be the nurses who make a difference," she encouraged.
Dr. Kamara’s visit concluded with a promise to continue supporting the department and a heartfelt commitment to the request by the students and staff, emphasizing her deep connection to give back to her alma mater.
© Public Relations Unit, Njala University
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