Last week, a significant step was taken for the future of education in Aruba when the HOH Academy of Horacio Oduber Hospital (HOH) and the University of Aruba signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The goal is to bring medical education to the higher professional education (HBO) level and guarantee high-quality teaching. HOH saw the opportunity to collaborate with the University of Aruba so that interested students can continue their specialized studies in medical care right here on the island.
Lenie Denteneer, Manager of HOH Academy, explained that many advanced-level programs are not available in Aruba. As a result, education often has to be followed abroad, meaning the HOH Academy depends on other educational institutions. In many cases, this education is offered online during evening hours because of the time difference with the Netherlands. Additionally, online learning through a laptop affects interaction and understanding.
With the new MoU, there is now a chance for local teachers to give classes. This will create a closer connection with students, and the course content can be better adapted to Aruba’s needs. If students do not fully understand something right away, a teacher can provide extra context in their own language. There is confidence that this will open up more opportunities for education and have a major positive effect on the quality of lessons and their practical application in Aruba.
“I am very happy with this MoU and proud to share that starting in September, two nursing specializations will launch at the University of Aruba, namely Intensive Care and Emergency,” Denteneer said.
Jacco Vroegop, Chairman of the Board of Directors, added, “This partnership between HOH Academy and the University of Aruba shows that both institutions have made great progress in recent years and want to keep building together on the future of health care in Aruba, creating more educational opportunities for Aruban students. This step is not just important for HOH, but also for other medical institutions such as ImSan and Respaldo.”
Continuing education is one of HOH’s core pillars, meaning there is a continued commitment to investing in the education of its employees so they have opportunities to grow in their professions.
Sue-Ann Lee, Rector of the University of Aruba, explained: “This fits perfectly with our vision of ‘lifelong learning.’ We are happy to expand our educational offerings and will ensure that students receive valuable, accredited education.”
“I am extremely proud of another important step forward for health care and for the future of Aruba,” Vroegop concluded.
