22 September 2024

KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC Ms Nomagugu Simelane has welcomed the increased interest shown by men in the nursing profession, saying this will lead to more men becoming health-conscious and seeking help early when they’re sick, instead of "persevering" until it's too late, as many tend to do.

Speaking during the Department's nurses' graduation ceremony earlier this week, MEC Simelane thanked all the young men who were keen to join the profession.

"Nursing is a predominantly female profession, so we welcome the fact that, out of a total of 195 people who are graduating, 79 are male. I want all male nurse graduands and those who are already in the profession to know that we see, value, and appreciate them as well," MEC Simalene said.

She thanked all male nurses "for playing an increasingly crucial role, not just within the healthcare setting, but in breaking down long-standing barriers that men face when it comes to seeking medical help."

"As we all know, many men tend to be hesitant when it comes to visiting healthcare facilities. This is often due to fear, pride, or cultural pressures. As a result, they wait until diseases reach an advanced stage, which is a problem, because by then, their ailments are more difficult to treat or manage. And they may lose their lives unnecessarily. But your presence in this field is what will help change these mindsets.

"We believe that, by being on the frontline, our male nurses have the opportunity to create a space where men in general can feel more encouraged to seek medical care, knowing they'll be better understood and cared for," said the MEC.

She said the time had come for all men to realise that it's not only okay but vital to take care of their health; to ask for help; and to be vulnerable when necessary.

"It is certainly not a sign of weakness."

MEC Simelane also acknowledged all the young men who had heeded the call she made last year, that more men should enter the nursing profession.

We have certainly seen an increase in the number of applications. However, for now, many of them do not meet the requirements, including doing mathematics, life science or physical science, and life orientation, among others, at high school level. We urge those who have an interest in the nursing profession to align themselves accordingly.

Issued by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health