Media Release
Mangaluru, Mar 11: Lamp lighting and oath-taking ceremony for the 18th batch of GNM and 17th batch of BSc Nursing students of Athena Institute of Health Sciences was held on March 10 at the college auditorium.
The programme was presided over by R S Shettian, the chairman of Athena Institute of Health Sciences and Professor Bridget D'Silva the principal of Thejaswini College of Nursing was the chief guest. Asha Shettian, secretary of Athena Institute of Health Sciences, Dr Ashith Shettian, trustee, Winny Crasta nursing superintendent, Sr Deepa Peter principal of Athena College of Nursing and Dr Sr Alphonsa Ancheril vice-principal of Athena College of Nursing shared the dais.
Genevive Serrao head of Fundamentals of the Nursing department welcomed the gathering.
The dignitaries on the dais lit the Indian lamp and officially inaugurated the programme.
The chief guest lit the lamp of Florence Nightingale and garlanded the portrait and all the dignitaries paid their homage to Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing by offering flower petals.
The significance of the day was highlighted by Dr Sr Alphonsa Ancheril, vice-principal and PG coordinator.
A total of 109 students were introduced to the nursing profession by lighting the lamps and taking the oath administered by the principal Sr Deepa Peter.
The chief guest stressed the value of nursing and emphasized igniting the nursing profession with lit lamps all through life. To keep a lamp lit all the time is not easy. "We will come across many difficulties but this should not blow off our light. Overcome the difficulties and a bright future waits you ahead."
R S Shettian chairman of Athena Institute of Health Sciences in his presidential address reminded the nurses of their role in restoring patients to health. He stressed that nurses are the backbone of the health profession and as such, they should be well equipped with knowledge and skill.
Lora Pais assistant lecturer of the Fundamental Nursing Department proposed the vote of thanks.
The programme was compered by Lerissa Montero and Lavita Dsouza.