Modern RSU study centre opened at Rīga East Clinical University Hospital

On 19 May, Rector of Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) Prof. Jānis Gardovskis, Chair of the Board of Rīga East Clinical University Hospital (RAKUS) Egita Pole, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine Prof. Guntis Bahs and Chair of RSU Student Council Natālija Šilova participated in the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for opening the most sophisticated and spacious RSU study centre at the largest multi-profile healthcare institution in Latvia.

In his address RSU rector, Prof. Jānis Gardovskis noted that, “As the leading institution of higher education in healthcare, RSU has departments in all university clinical hospitals, likewise also in other hospitals of the relevant specialisation areas. For example, last autumn RSU opened a study and research clinical centre at Daugavpils Regional Hospital, nevertheless the newly opened study centre will be the largest and most sophisticated study centre hosted by any of Latvia’s hospitals. The study centre is the result of synergy of healthcare and academic activities.”

By investing 943 000 EUR, RSU has adjusted the training premises of the former Block 13 of the hospital covering the total area of 1042 sq. m to fit the requirements and specifics of a modern study centre. The new study centre can admit up to 304 students at a time, ensuring acquisition of theoretical and also clinical study courses alongside with work in real life conditions. Chair of RSU Student Centre Natālija Šilova was impressed with the opportunities offered by the centre, “Both in terms of logistics and convenience the newly opened study centre is an excellent opportunity for prospective medical practitioners whose study process is therewith made more effective.”

The new study centre offers seven classrooms and a recreation and individual study area covering 140 sq. m and 32 individual study places. In order to provide comprehensive training possibilities for prospective students, the study centre is equipped with training manikins and medical simulators.

RAKUS Chair of the Board Egita Pole sees a double benefit in opening the centre, “First of all we strengthen the position of the largest university hospital engaged in the training of doctors and nurses and secondly – the hospital acquires repaired and furnished premises that may be used for organizing various activities and events of our own.”