The decision to enter a career in nursing is a noble and compassionate endeavor. For 62 recent alumni from RRC Polytech's Nurse Re-Entry Program (NREP), that decision was something they've committed to twice.
On September 16, a celebration was held at Manitou a bi Bii daziigae to recognize the individuals who have completed the program since 2024, qualifying them to write their National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses through the College of Registered Nurses of Manitoba (CRNM) and return to the profession as practicing nurses.
"These alumni are a reflection of the commitment RRC Polytech shares with the Province of Manitoba to strengthening the province's health-care system and supporting nurses in returning to active practice," says Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech.
"Through targeted gap training and hands-on learning, RRC Polytech is proud to help nurses meet the CRNM's entry-level competencies and rejoin the workforce with confidence. This program is not just about education - it's about empowering skilled individuals to make a meaningful impact in our communities."
NREP is composed of a series of courses that support nurses previously registered and trained in Manitoba, across Canada or internationally to gain the skills and competencies needed to return to active practice. Students review current nursing theories, skills and practices while integrating new knowledge and innovations.
The program has three cohorts per academic year and accepts up to 30 students per intake.
"It is always inspiring to meet students who have a passion for helping others and who choose to dedicate their lives to a career in health care," says Dr. Tamara Chambers-Richards, Dean, School of Health Sciences and Community Services, RRC Polytech.
"The nurses we are celebrating have overcome great obstacles and shown pure determination and perseverance to get where they are today. I am confident they will be successful leaders in nursing roles across the province and will join a great team of RRC Polytech nursing alumni who make a difference in Manitoba, each and every day."
Delivery of NREP is strengthened through collaboration with industry and government to meet Manitoba's health-care needs. In 2023, RRC Polytech partnered with Shared Health and the CRNM to support 50 internationally educated nurses (IENs) through the Philippines Recruitment Initiative.
In 2024, the Manitoba government also launched a full-time pilot for IENs already in the province, offering up to 12 courses over 12 months.
At today's event, students celebrated along with their friends, families, instructors and representatives from the Province of Manitoba, including Hon. Uzoma Asagwara, Minister of Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care; Hon. Renée Cable, Minister of Advanced Education and Training; and Hon. Malaya Marcelino, Minister of Labour and Immigration.
They also heard a heartfelt message from one of their peers, Melissa Reyes, who shared her experience re-committing to nursing after immigrating from the Philippines.
"After being away from the nursing profession for several years, I was slowly losing my confidence as a nurse," says Reyes.
"I decided to take the full (NREP) program, which I would say is not a walk in the park, but it gave me back my confidence to work as a nurse and taught me the value of lifelong learning. The overall experience was truly transformative, refreshing my nursing knowledge and instilling in me a deeper appreciation for the profession."
Learn more about the NREP at RRC Polytech.
