The deadline for applications for the Dr Barbara Ball Public Health Scholarship has been extended to later this month.

Registration for the scholarship began on April 4 and students now have until April 21 to submit their application.

The scholarship will assist Bermudians with a proven financial need seeking careers or professional development in public health, explained a Ministry of Health and Seniors statement.

“The Dr Barbara Ball Public Health Scholarship is available to persons both entering and/or seeking to upgrade corresponding professional skills and may be offered for study in a range of healthcare professions,” added the statement. “This year, the ministry will prioritise applications for nursing, social work, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and speech language therapy.”

A staunch PLP supporter, Dr Ball was born in Bermuda in 1924 and spent most of her life here.

Following her graduation from Liverpool University Medical School in 1949 and a short working stint in the United Kingdom, she returned to the island in 1954 and devoted her life to the needs of the downtrodden.

“She was the first female physician to practice medicine in Bermuda, and a tireless champion for people’s rights,” added the statement. “The Government of Bermuda is pleased to recognise her by awarding scholarships to public health professionals in her honour.

More information about the scholarship can be found on the Government web site: https://www.gov.bm/barbara-ball-scholarship

Applications must submitted via the Bermuda Scholarships website at: http://bermudascholarships.com/SitePages/scholarship.aspx?sid=125

For further information regarding the scholarship write to the Administrator, Public Health Scholarship Ministry of Health and Seniors, PO Box HM 380, Hamilton HM BX, call 278-4906 or e-mail phscholarship@gov.bm