Students commit to rural work

North Shore’s AUT University has awarded $2000 to $10,000 to students to work in a rural area for up to a year.

The Waikato Primary Health Rural Scholarships went to physiotherapy students Kirsty Mouritis and Amanda Foster, paramedic students Alan Mills, Trish Nooroa and Duncan Williamson, and occupational therapy student Debbie Ford.

Ms Ford, who commutes weekly from just outside of Hamilton, says: "Rural communities in the Waikato often consist of large numbers of elderly and Maori, who have a significant call on health resources."

She believes occupational therapy can make a big difference including helping mental and physical rehabilitation, community support and health promotion.

After her bachelor of health science degree Ms Ford will be on a 12-month employment bond in the Te Awamutu area.

- © Fairfax NZ News