Sri Vijaya Puram, July 10: A new chapter in healthcare education in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands began today with the inauguration of The Institute of Paramedical Science, established in collaboration with Apollo Clinic, at Bhatu Basti, Sri Vijaya Puram. The institute aims to equip local youth with professional paramedical skills and address the growing demand for trained healthcare personnel in the Islands.
The inaugural function was attended by Deputy Director (Health), Directorate of Health Services, Dr. Avijit Roy, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Roy described the establishment of the institute as a significant milestone for the Islands’ healthcare sector. He said that with the expansion of hospitals, the opening of a medical college and the increasing number of healthcare facilities in the Islands, the need for trained local paramedical professionals has become more important than ever.
He pointed out that the future demand for healthcare manpower cannot be met solely by professionals coming from the mainland, as hospitals across the country are also facing an increasing demand for skilled personnel. According to him, creating a local pool of trained paramedics is the need of the hour.
Recalling the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Roy said the shortage of trained paramedical staff had highlighted the importance of skill development in the healthcare sector. He noted that both the Government and private institutions have been encouraging healthcare skill-based education under various initiatives, and the new institute would play an important role in reducing the shortage of skilled manpower.
Dr. Roy also highlighted India’s changing demographic pattern, stating that with declining fertility rates and a steadily increasing elderly population, the demand for trained caregivers and paramedical professionals will continue to grow in the coming years. He appreciated the institute for introducing courses that would prepare students to meet these emerging healthcare needs.
Speaking about the institute, a staff member informed that the Institute offers a wide range of certificate, diploma and degree programmes in paramedical sciences. The certificate courses are being conducted in collaboration with Skill India, while the diploma and degree programmes are offered through collaboration with Manipur University, she said.
The institute has opened admissions for candidates who have passed Class 10 and Class 12. Adults above 18 years of age, including working individuals and homemakers, are also eligible to enrol. The staff member said students from Science, Arts and Commerce streams are eligible to apply and can choose courses based on their interests.
She further stated that experienced faculty members will conduct classroom teaching at the institute, while practical training and hands-on exposure will be provided through Apollo Clinic, enabling students to gain practical experience under the guidance of experienced healthcare professionals.
The institute also offers flexible fee payment options, including instalment facilities, to make healthcare education more affordable and accessible to aspiring students across the Islands.
