An international placement was an unforgettable experience for BSc Physiotherapy student Nassia, who took the skills and experiences she’d developed in the UK to an international setting.
A placement in Uganda
During her degree, Nassia made the most of the opportunity to take her studies overseas by completing a clinical placement at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital in Western Uganda. “Over four weeks, I had the opportunity to cover neurosurgery HDU, paediatric oncology and surgery wards with one of my peers. I am so grateful to the team for helping me to navigate language barriers and cross-cultural care - challenges that physiotherapists in all sectors around the world are facing.
“Apart from my time in the hospital, I was able to attend physiotherapy lectures at Mbarara University of Science & Technology. Our time here culminated in a group presentation exploring the importance of critical appraisal and evidence-based practice. This has stood me in good stead now that I’ve returned to Southampton, where I’m conducting a research project exploring frugal innovations in low-resource healthcare settings and their relevance to the NHS today.
“It was a joy to explore such a beautiful country and work alongside such dedicated staff and students. I am very grateful to all who made this possible! Our journey went beyond the wards in Mbarara’s hospital. With the help of the BethanyKids team, we were able to join a weekly, free, neuro paediatric clinic and even able to participate in a community outreach event at Tukore Primary School, a learning centre for children with disabilities. This sparked a love for paediatric physiotherapy, which I am continuing to explore in the UK – I am now completing a neuro paediatric placement as part of my course, which I requested on my return to the UK.”
Unforgettable experience
“Uganda has left an indelible mark on me as an individual and aspiring healthcare professional. Working with those who possess so little has strengthened my passion for equality in healthcare and highlighted the need to be a voice for those who are most vulnerable.”