A STUDENT nurse from Oswaldtwistle is hoping to help improve the health of people in Malawi.

Ruth Jeffrey asked her university lecturers if she could undertake the trip to the African country, where infectious diseases kill thousands, and the HIV and Aids rate is one of the highest in the world.

The 20-year-old will experience nursing on the wards at the Ekwendeni Hospital, in North Malawi, along with fellow East Anglia University nursing student Denise Cato.

The pair will also give health education talks in nearby villages.

The former Hippings Methodist and St Wilfrid’s pupil, is also hoping fundraisers will enable her to buy supplies and text books for her trip in July.

The third year students hope they can make a difference to hygiene, and sexual health practices.

Ruth said: “Denise and I had heard that former students had travelled abroad on schemes, so we were hoping the university would fund our travel.

“We were delighted when they agreed. I have always wanted to work in Africa, either after I qualify, or for placements.

“At first we will learn about their practices in the hospital, and what problems they face. We hope to offer an insight into Western medicine practices too.

“In the villages, we will be giving educational talks about many different health issues, such as hygiene.

“Sexual health is also a big problem. Many of the men in Malawi don’t see the need to concern themselves with it. They see it as a women’s problem, so we hope to break down that barrier.

“I’ve always wanted to do something like this as my mum has done a lot of missionary work in Africa.”

Ruth’s mum, Gill, is helping her daughter prepare for the trip with a fundraiser in Oswaldtwistle while Ruth is away studying.

Gill is holding a coffee morning, lunch, and car wash, at Union Road Community Church, which the Jeffreys attend as a family.

The event, which will feature quizzes, stalls, and challenges, plus information about Malawi, is at the church on Saturday, May 12 from 11am to 2.30pm.