Media Release
Mangaluru, Feb 11: The lamp lighting and oath-taking ceremony for the first batch of BSc Nursing students at Milagres College of Nursing was held on February 11 at Milagres Auditorium, marking a significant milestone in their academic and professional journey. The ceremony symbolized their formal entry into the esteemed nursing profession.
The event began with a soulful prayer song, followed by a welcome dance. Dr Diana Lobo, principal of Milagres College of Nursing, welcomed the gathering.
The proceedings commenced with the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, a significant ritual steeped in symbolism. As a mark of honor and respect, the principal and the chief guest garlanded the portrait of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. Prof Victoria, vice principal, spoke on the significance of the ceremony.
In a touching moment, 35 students marched forward and lit candles, symbolizing the passing on of the flame of knowledge and compassion. This was followed by the administration of the Florence Nightingale Oath by Dr Diana Lobo, instilling a deep sense of responsibility in the students. The students then sang the Florence Nightingale Anthem and a dedicated song.
Addressing the gathering, chief guest Dr Veena Gretta Tauro encouraged the students to embody the values of the oath in their nursing care and become a beacon of hope for their patients.
The Student Nurses' Association unit of Milagres College of Nursing was inaugurated digitally by Fr Bonaventure Nazareth and Dr Michel Santhumayor. The association aims to provide a platform for student nurses to engage in curricular and co-curricular programs, address relevant nursing issues, and promote legislative involvement. The newly elected office-bearers were conferred with sashes by Fr Bonaventure Nazareth and Dr Michel Santhumayor and pledged to uphold the institution’s honor.
Guest of honor Dr Vaishali Sreejith, vice principal of Dr MV Shetty College of Physiotherapy and senate member of RGUHS Bengaluru, wished the students success in their professional journey. She urged them to be sincere, hardworking, skillful, and vigilant to grow into proficient nurses.
Fr Bonaventure Nazareth, the correspondent, presided over the function. In his presidential address, he congratulated the novice nurses and assured them of the management's support for their growth and welfare.
Prof Victoria D'Almeida delivered the vote of thanks. The ceremony concluded with lunch.
Dignitaries present included Fr Uday Fernandes, principal of Milagres Central School, and Melvin Vas, principal of Milagres PUC.
The event was attended by parents of the novice nurses, members of the Milagres Parish Council and Housing Society, sisters, students, and faculty of the College of Nursing. Prof Irene Dias compered the program.