The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine is reviewing the advertising and management of a health-care scholarship program with Northern Health.
The scholarship program was established in 2021 through a memorandum of understanding between Northern Health and the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine. It provides $30,000 annually to students and health-care professionals pursuing higher education in health-related programs.
There are 12 scholarships available, each worth $2,500. Six are aimed at graduating students entering post-secondary institutions to pursue health-related careers, while the remaining six target employees in the Northern Health region who want to upgrade their skills in the field.
Employees who receive funding must commit to working in the region for two years.
Directors were informed that while the employee scholarships are often fully used, in some years the high school scholarships have fewer applicants. Directors questioned if the program is being widely advertised to local students.
The board also expressed concerns about the oversight, noting the regional district is not involved in the selection process, even though it provides the funding.
A recent report from Northern Health indicate that the program has awarded $125,000 to 50 recipients since its inception, supporting studies in fields including nursing, social work, radiology, therapy and psychology.
The report said 30 of those recipients are now working in the Kitimat-Stikine region.
