Surinamese Nursing Educators Embark on Transformative Exchange in Belgium

Paramaribo. 25 February 2026 – In a landmark step for Suriname’s healthcare sector, a delegation of four nursing educators has journeyed to Belgium on Sunday 22 February to participate in a dynamic professional exchange, marking a new chapter in international collaboration and capacity building. This initiative, part of the Skills Mobility Partnership (SMP) between Suriname and Belgium, is facilitated by the International Organization for Migration (IOM), in close partnership with the Ministry of Health of Suriname.

Educators from Quality College Suriname (QCS) and Stichting UMA Trainings - en opleidingsinstituut (UTOS) are engaging with Belgian institutions Centrum voor Volwassenenonderwijs MIRAS (CVO MIRAS) and Hoger Instituut voor Verpleegkunde Sint-Elisabeth Turnhout (HIVSET), immersing themselves in a programme designed to strengthen nursing education and healthcare training back home. The Surinamese educators are accompanied by an officer from IOM Suriname and are being facilitated in Belgium by staff of the Belgium & Luxembourg office. Before their departure, IOM and the Ministry of Health hosted a brief meeting in with the participants, to clarify expectations and help prepare them for the enriching experience ahead, a milestone in Suriname’s commitment to advancing healthcare.

During their visit, the educators will collaborate with Belgian peers to exchange expertise in curriculum development, clinical training methods, simulation techniques, and student supervision. The knowledge and skills gained will directly enhance the quality of nursing education in Suriname, empowering future healthcare professionals to deliver better care and meet evolving challenges.

This activity, more than a mere training opportunity, demonstrates a shared vision for sustainable healthcare development. By investing in educators, the programme lays the foundation for long-term improvements in Suriname’s healthcare system, ensuring that the benefits ripple out to patients, families, and communities across the country.

“This exchange is a testament to Suriname’s commitment to managing migration and advancing healthcare through international collaboration“, remarked IOM’s Head of Office (a.i.) Eraina Yaw. “By investing in our educators, expanding their experiences and knowledge, we are jointly laying the groundwork for lasting improvements in nursing education and patient care. The skills and inspiration gained in Belgium will empower our educators to shape a brighter future for Suriname’s health sector. IOM is proud to support this journey, fostering partnerships that strengthen institutions and transform lives.”

The programme is generously supported by Belgian Immigration Office and the European Union. Their involvement underscores the strength of the partnership and the commitment to fostering professional growth and knowledge sharing between Surinamese and Belgian institutions.

IOM remains dedicated to facilitating ethical, sustainable partnerships that strengthen institutions and create lasting impact in Suriname’s healthcare sector. As the educators return, they will bring with them not only new skills but renewed inspiration to shape the future of healthcare in Suriname.

For more information on this programme and other activities of IOM Suriname, please contact Astrano JABINI at ajabini@iom.int