Sally Axiak, currently a lecturer within the Institute of Applied Sciences, Mcast, was awarded a PhD from the University of Sheffield, UK.

Having obtained a BSc (First Class) in mental health nursing and an MSc in health services management with the University of Malta, Dr Axiak embarked on a part-time PhD collaborative programme between the University of Sheffield and St Catherine’s School, Malta.

Dr Axiak’s PhD, entitled ‘The impact of a continuing professional education degree programme in mental health nursing: A phenomenological study’, found that the influences exerted by a strong bureaucratic organisational culture within a healthcare organisation should not be underestimated for their potential to obstruct change.

These findings led to recommendations for action by both the academic body responsible for nurse education and the organisation’s management. Future research was suggested to widen understanding of the complex array of interrelated factors affecting the working practices of psychiatric nurses who have undertaken a Diploma to Degree in Mental Health Nursing.

Dr Axiak’s PhD was partly funded by the Malta Government Scholarship Scheme (MGSS).