The Ministry of Health advises that applications for the Dr. Barbara Ball Public Health Scholarship are now open for students pursuing nursing, with submissions accepted until 30 April, 2026. Students may apply online here.

“The Dr. Barbara Ball Public Health Scholarship continues to play a vital role in strengthening Bermuda’s healthcare workforce,” explained Kim Wilson, Minister of Health. “It eases some of the financial burden for young people pursuing nursing degrees, helping them enter a demanding yet deeply rewarding profession. By supporting those who choose a career of service to our community, we are investing in the long‑term resilience and quality of Bermuda’s public health system.”

This year, the scholarship criteria have been updated by the scholarship committee to focus solely on nursing. The decision reflects the need to bolster Bermuda’s nursing workforce in the years ahead and recognises the importance of investing in prevention and community health. 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.

The Dr. Barbara Ball Public Health Scholarship is awarded annually to Bermudians with demonstrated financial need who are pursuing careers or professional development in public health. Eligible applicants must be residents of Bermuda, hold Bermudian status or possess PRC status with permission to reside and seek employment, be accepted into an approved nursing programme at an accredited institution, and hold a minimum GPA of 3.0 (UK 2:2, IB 30).

Dr. Barbara Bertha Ball was the first‑Bermudian-born woman to practise medicine in Bermuda. She graduated from Liverpool University Medical School in 1949 and worked in the United Kingdom before returning home in 1954. She devoted her life to providing care and advocating for fairness and dignity for all. The Government of Bermuda is proud to continue this legacy by supporting future healthcare professionals. Students and interested persons may also visit https://www.gov.bm/dr-barbara-ball-public-health-scholarship for further information.