Media Release
Mangaluru, May 12: The Fundamentals of Nursing Department of Athena College of Nursing organized the International Nurses Day 2026 celebration on May 12 at the Athena Auditorium with great enthusiasm and reverence towards the nursing profession.
The programme was presided over by Dr Ashith Shettian, managing trustee of Athena Institute of Health Sciences. The chief guest for the occasion was Dr Diana Lobo, principal of Milagres College of Nursing.
The dignitaries present on the dais included Sr Deepa Peter, principal, ACON, Sunita Cloudia Lobo, vice principal, Dr Nandini, principal, Athena Institute of Health Sciences and Genevive Serrao, HOD, Fundamentals of Nursing Department.
The programme commenced with a warm welcome note delivered by Lora Sofia Pais. The formal inauguration included the garlanding of the portrait of Florence Nightingale by the chief guest and other dignitaries, symbolizing respect and gratitude towards the founder of modern nursing.
Addressing the gathering, chief guest Dr Diana Lobo encouraged the future nurses, especially the final-year students, to uphold the dignity and values of the nursing profession. She praised the invaluable contributions of nurses not only in healthcare settings but also during times of emergencies and humanitarian crises. She highlighted various examples of the bravery, sacrifices, and dedicated services rendered by nurses throughout history. She also extended her heartfelt wishes to all nurses on the occasion of International Nurses Day.
The celebration also featured a variety of cultural programs. Students performed vibrant dances and presented a meaningful skit depicting the journey of Florence Nightingale and the evolution of nurses as healers. The skit beautifully showcased the different uniforms worn by nurses across various eras, emphasizing the growth and transformation of the nursing profession over time.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Anna Wilson, expressing gratitude to the management, dignitaries, faculty members, students, and all those who contributed to the successful celebration of International Nurses Day 2026.
The event was gracefully compered by Diya Shogi and Saloni Veigus, conducted the programme smoothly and enthusiastically.