The University of Gibraltar has officially opened the new School of Health Sciences, including the “Kusuma Trust Training and Simulation Ward” on International Nurses Day 2025. Our grant of over £200,000 funded the relocation and expansion of the existing School of Health Sciences.
The Kusuma Trust Training and Simulation Ward include a 6-bed ward with dummy patients, simulated oxygen and suction, nurse call buttons, emergency buzzers, name boards and bed lights, and all the clinical equipment necessary to replicate the local hospital wards. The new facilities also include classrooms, offices, and rooms to simulate home visits, triage spaces, and to practice delivering bad news to relatives. By offering a realistic, immersive learning environment, the suite will help build students’ confidence, knowledge and understanding, and ensure better care for patients once the students graduate.
Minister for the University, Pat Orfila MP said: “This practical experience is vital to any nurse. None of this would be possible without the support of Kusuma Trust. Their generous contribution has transformed this space, enhancing our healthcare program, which will directly benefit all of our students taking the nursing profession. Their generosity will be a game changer for them and, for this, we are truly grateful. We cannot thank the Kusuma Trust enough for the continued commitment to education and health care in Gibraltar.”
Professor Catherine Bachleda, Vice Chancellor and CEO, University of Gibraltar said: “The Kusuma Trust’s generous donation has enabled us to create a state-of-the-art healthcare training facility on the second floor of our North Wing, featuring a six-bedded simulation suite, treatment rooms, and dedicated classrooms. This space provides students with a safe, immersive environment where they can develop essential clinical skills before stepping into real-world healthcare settings. Their support has strengthened healthcare education in Gibraltar and will have a lasting impact on the industries and communities we serve.” The Vice Chancellor, presented Kusuma with a “Corporate Special Recognition Award” as a mark of gratitude for Kusuma’s support.