International students learn strategies to support clients from diverse backgrounds

Health and Wellbeing News

New Zealand’s elderly population is becoming larger and more diverse, with the country’s Asian, Māori and Pacific elderly populations expected to grow by more than double in the next 15 years.

To support the healthcare sector’s changing needs, New Zealand Tertiary College offers NZQA approved Health and Wellbeing programs to students across the country.

During their studies, international students explore the concepts of cultural diversity and cultural competence and learn associated strategies to support these.

Students are encouraged to reflect on the ways in which their own cultural background may impact their perspective on health and wellbeing, and consider how this may influence their practice.

Level 4 student and community support worker Dhavalbhai Patel arrived in New Zealand from India six years ago, and says his knowledge of Māori and Pasifika cultures was limited before he began his studies.

“When I began working as a healthcare assistant in New Zealand it was my first time encountering Māori people. Studying is helping me to learn about the different cultures and values of my clients and provide a more holistic approach.”

Christchurch-based Level 4 student Preethi Abraham left her engineering career behind to pursue her passion for caring in 2017. Three years on, she says the satisfaction she feels at the end of each shift continues to grow as she learns new ways to enhance the quality of her care.

“Studying enables me to truly understand the difference I can make in my work. I believe it is very important for all healthcare assistants to gain qualifications, so we can give quality support to our residents.”