KINGSTON, Jamaica -The Ministry of Health and Wellness will host its inaugural career expo and employment fair at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona Campus in St Andrew on Wednesday, January 22 and Thursday, January 23.

The event, being staged in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, takes place at the Confucius Institute from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm each day.

Prime Minister Andrew Holness will deliver the keynote address during the opening ceremony on January 22, beginning 10:00 am.

Special guest at the event will be Secretary of Health for the Philippines, Dr Teodoro Herbosa.

Director of Public Relations and Communications at the Ministry of Health, Stephen Davidson, said the event aims to expose high school and university students and the general public to diverse career opportunities within the health sector, beyond the traditional roles of doctors and nurses.

“Working in health is so much more than just being a doctor or a nurse. We have positions for drivers, technicians, biomedical technologists and so many other roles. This event is about piquing the interest of young people, exposing them to various facets of public health and guiding them towards fulfilling career paths,” he told JIS News.

The employment fair will showcase over 600 positions available in various health departments, hospitals, health centres and agencies islandwide. Attendees are encouraged to bring printed copies of their résumés for on-the-spot interviews.

“The interviews will take place from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm both days,” Davidson indicated. He added that candidates will be informed immediately afterwards, whether they have been successful in securing the position for which they were interviewed.

Attendees can also explore interactive booths and participate in live demonstrations, such as ambulance tours and equipment showcases. The booths will provide hands-on experiences, insights into various health-related careers and health screenings.

“They’ll have the chance to meet experienced professionals, ask questions and learn about the tools and technologies [used] in the field,” Davidson added.

Career coaches and counsellors from several tertiary institutions, including the University of Technology Northern Caribbean University, University College of the Caribbean and The UWI will be present to guide attendees.

“The counsellors will help students identify their strengths and passions, guiding them on the qualifications and experiences needed to achieve their career goals,” Davidson pointed out.

Agencies and departments, such as the National Health Fund, National Career Development Association,  Pesticides Control Authority, along with the Regional Health Authorities and Health Ministry will be represented.

Davidson, who indicated that both days will also feature giveaways and networking opportunities, said the event, “promises to be very interactive, engaging and entertaining”.

“We want everyone to come out and learn about the diverse careers in the health sector and how they function, and gain job opportunities,” he added. Persons and groups wishing to attend this event, which is free and open to the public, can email rsvpcareersexpo@moh.gov.jm.

– JIS

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