In a move that is expected to significantly boost the training of upcoming cohorts of health care professionals, The Maria Holder Memorial Trust handed over a critical piece of equipment to the Barbados Community College.

In a brief ceremony held in the Health Sciences Division at the Eyrie campus, Chairman of the College’s Board of Management, Dr. Allyson Leacock accepted a SynDaver Anatomical Model, the purchase of which was funded by the Trust.

A SynDaver Anatomical Model is a full-sized, synthetic representation of the human body, designed for medical education and training. It is crafted with realistic materials that mimic the feel and appearance of human tissue, including bones, joints, muscles, organs, tendons, and major vascular and nervous systems. These models are used as an alternative to human cadavers, offering a durable, safe, and cost-effective way to learn about human anatomy.

In thanking the Trust, Dr. Leacock said the organization’s continued support elevates educational opportunities at the College, while at the same time advancing health care and innovation through strategic partnerships.

She described the Model as a “remarkable resource” that bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, while providing the students with realistic, hands-on experience without the ethical and logistical challenges associated with cadaver use.

The Model was primarily sourced for use by students in the four (4) year old Nursing Auxiliary programme which The Maria Holder Memorial Trust supports, but it will also be made available to other students in the Health and Natural Sciences Divisions at the College.

In her remarks, BCC Principal, Annette Alleyne stressed that the importance of nursing cannot be overstated. She reiterated that nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system, noting the worrying statistics from the World Health Organization that project a global shortage of over 5.9 million nurses and midwives. That gap, she said is projected to widen unless substantial investments are made in healthcare education and workforce development.

Trustee, Mary Brewster, explained that support is underpinned by the connection the The Maria Holder Memorial Trust sees between “strong health care systems and strong education”.

She explained that the donation is a reflection of The Maria Holder Memorial Trust’s deep commitment into investing in the future of healthcare, and to ensuring that all nursing students are well equipped with the practical knowledge and confidence they need to thrive in their profession.