Applications for a scholarship aimed at supporting nursing students will close next week.

The 2026 Dr Barbara Ball Public Health Scholarship, named after the trailblazing Bermudian doctor, is open to Bermudian students with financial need enrolled in or accepted to an accredited programme in a public health-related discipline.

Criteria for the scholarship was updated this year to focus on nursing as part of an effort to bolster the island’s nursing workforce for the years ahead.

A government spokeswoman said: “Training in this field can involve substantial educational costs, often requiring multiple funding sources, and the committee aims to help address this need by directing support to those pursuing nursing.”

Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, added that the scholarship reflects Dr Ball’s legacy of service and belief in empowering Bermudians to lead in health.

She said: “If you’re looking for purpose, pride and the chance to make a real difference, nursing is where it begins.

“The Dr Barbara Ball Public Health Scholarship can help you take that step.

“Please do not wait until the last minute, submit your application today and take the next step towards becoming one of Bermuda’s future nurses.”

Anyone interested in applying for the scholarship was urged to do so before the April 30 deadline. Full details are available online at bermudascholarships.com.

Further information can be found at gov.bm/dr-barbara-ball-public-health-scholarship.