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Hamlin College of Midwives graduation ceremony 2024

Hanan is proud to call herself a Hamlin midwife. She recently graduated from the Hamlin College of Midwives with a BSc degree in Midwifery. She is now looking forward to serving women in her home state of Benishangul-Gumuz in north-western Ethiopia.

We caught up with Hanan after her graduation ceremony in October. She told us about her time studying at the Hamlin College of Midwives and shared her favourite memory with us.

I’m really very happy that I’m a Hamlin midwife because it’s not easy [to become one]. Hamlin is the best [midwifery] college in our country.

A group of graduates wearing caps and gowns
Hanan with her graduating class at the Hamlin College of Midwives in October 2024

Hanan’s experience at the Hamlin College of Midwives

“My training was for the past four years. I was trained in so many things, like there’s practice at the end of every semester that I get so much knowledge and skills from, for example, family planning training. There are different kinds of training in our college.

My dream is to achieve Dr. Catherine Hamlin’s goal. As a family midwife, I will try to eradicate obstetric fistula from our country. I’m going to achieve her dream. That will make me so happy. I feel excited and happy to get this opportunity to serve our people.

My favourite memory was… when I came here for the first time, there is orientation for the first-year class, and when I get to the classroom, I’m fearful and I’m stressed because it’s the first time. Already, there is staff saying “Don’t fear. Be strong.” And I remember that.

My family is feeling happy and excited to share this special day with me. They are proud of me and the Hamlin College of Midwifery.”

Hanan is standing outside wearing a graduation cap and gown

Thank you to the international donors. Your donation is not for me only. Your donation is very important for our country.

Hanan

Access to midwifery care in rural areas saves lives

In Ethiopia, 267 mothers die for every 100,000 births. In the UK, it’s 13. And approximately 50% of births in Ethiopia take place without a midwife or doctor present. So there is a vital need to train and place more Hamlin midwives like Hanan in remote communities.

Each student at the world-renowned Hamlin College of Midwives undertakes a four-year BSc degree in Midwifery. She commits to working as a Hamlin midwife for a minimum of four years following her graduation. Students are placed in their local areas to work in Hamlin-supported midwifery clinics across the country.

Every student is on a full Hamlin scholarship, funded by generous donors.

Hanan told us how grateful she is to those who have given her the opportunity to serve the mothers in her community.

If you support one student at the Hamlin College, it seems like you support 100 mothers who live in remote areas that give birth with complicated labours. Because one Hamlin midwife can support so many women to save the life of many mothers and newborns.


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