Two years after digging in a foundation stone locals have watched this huge building slowly rise above the skyline until, one bright Bihar morning, its inauguration brought together staff and special guests from all over the word. They came to celebrate not only a milestone in healthcare education at The Duncan but also one that will have a positive influence over a huge region. Cathy Ratcliff, representing EMMS International, was also present to mark the success of this enormous project, which she and her team meticulously project managed.

Global Success Powering Local Change

The Clanton Nursing Academic Block stands as a testament to the power of global collaboration. It was made possible thanks to a mix of donations to the DHCT and funds made available by the success of the Internal Brace, the groundbreaking ligament treatment invented by Prof Mackay. Now revolutionising ligament repair worldwide, Internal Brace royalties provided a huge financial boost to this ambitious project.

Jackie Mackay reflected on the significance of the building, saying, “This isn’t just about bricks and mortar; it’s about building a brighter future for the girls, and boys who will become nursing students and the patients they’ll care for. It’s deeply moving to see it all come together.”

Prof Mackay added, “It’s wonderful to see how the success of the Internal Brace has rippled outward to create something so meaningful here in Bihar. This building represents hope and opportunity for so many.”

Named in Honor of Dr. Thomas Clanton

The building’s namesake, Thomas Clanton MD of the Steadman Clinic, played a vital role in supporting Professor Mackay’s early work on the Internal Brace. His legacy now lives on in this cutting-edge facility, which is poised to become a cornerstone of nursing education in one of the poorest regions in India.

A Beacon for Nursing Education

Eventually, it is hoped that 1,200 nursing students will study here annually – transforming the healthcare landscape in the region. It also addresses a critical social challenge: the education of girls. Training here offers young women an opportunity for education, empowerment, and economic independence.

The hospital’s director, Dr. Prabhu Joseph, gave thanks saying, ” A few of us know the hard work it took to reach this day – a lot of days we have hoped for this day, yet today we are here looking at this beautiful building and it is a testament to God’s goodness.”

At the helm will be experienced Principal, Ms. Dorcas Lepcha, who with a clear and heartfelt vision described the school’s mission, adding that she envisions it as a “beacon of excellence in nursing education, embracing the principles of integrity, empathy, and teamwork.”

Work Underway to Welcome Students

Now the building is complete the focus shifts to equipping it with state-of-the-art resources before it prepares to welcome the first trainees, including our DHCT-sponsored nurses.

Phase two – construction of a new Nursing Accommodation block begins next and will be a vital component, supporting the school’s expanding capacity.

A Day of Celebration

The inauguration day was a blend of prayers, reflection, and celebration before the ribbon was cut and guests and staff enjoyed a tour of the building. Many guests then stayed on to enjoy a vibrant, joyous evening of song and dance to commemorate The Founder’s Day Celebration.

Dr. Graham Watson said, “I often pinch myself when I visit the Duncan Hospital. It is a genuine privilege to be associated with some of the projects in which the hospital is involved. The staff and buildings truly represent a beacon of light and hope for people in this part of Bihar and southern Nepal. Our commitment to the hospital continues unabated.”

Sadly fellow trustee Karen Watson was unable to travel this time but summed up the bright future of the Nursing School by saying, “I was sorry to be unable to travel to the Duncan to celebrate in the opening ceremony of the school of nursing.

I’ve always been so impressed by the dedication and compassion of all staff members. The Clanton Nursing Academic Block is a very impressive building and I’m sure it will be a wonderful environment in which the student nurses will learn and flourish. I very much look forward to seeing it in the future.“

As the Clanton Nursing Academic Block begins its journey of shaping the future of nursing in Bihar, it stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when innovation, compassion, and collaboration come together. For The Duncan Hospital, the future has never looked brighter.

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The Giving Tree is a charity shop that is part of Dunblane Development Trust – it supports local and international charities, as well as promoting sustainability. They will be helping to raise funds in particular for our DHCT Nurses in Training Sponsorship Programme.

DHCT trustees Professor Gordon and Jackie Mackay, Dr Graham and Karen Watson were delighted to attend the official opening and give a taste of work The Duncan Hospital in Bihar India carries out. Local Antiques Roadshow expert Gordon Foster kindly cut the opening ribbon.

To donate to the DHCT Sponsored Nurses Programme click the link below.

https://www.justgiving.com/…/duncanhospitalsponsorednurses

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