Moodubidire: Manipal College of Nursing Dean, Dr. Judith Angelitta Noronha called upon nursing students to uphold compassion, commitment and professional values while serving society during the International Nurses Day and Lamp Lighting Ceremony organized by Alva’s College of Nursing at Kuvempu Hall on Saturday.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Noronha said that every nursing student entering the profession carries the responsibility of care, compassion and service. Congratulating the students, she observed that the lamp-lighting ceremony symbolizes not merely the beginning of an academic journey but a lifelong commitment to humanity and healing.
Explaining the significance of the lamp-lighting tradition associated with Florence Nightingale, she said the lamp represents vision, knowledge and guidance. Recalling Nightingale’s service during the Crimean War, she noted that the lamp became a symbol of hope and care for suffering patients.
“Let this light never fade. Be a beacon of hope in your profession and strive continuously for excellence through learning, competence and compassion,” she told the students.
Stressing the importance of perseverance and dedication, Dr. Noronha said there is no shortcut to success and that hard work, commitment and determination are essential for professional growth. She described nurses as the backbone of the healthcare system whose touch, care and presence initiate healing.
Quoting Swami Vivekananda, she highlighted the power of concentration and disciplined thinking in achieving excellence. Referring to the teachings of A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, she urged students to have a clear aim in life, continuously acquire knowledge, work hard and persevere through challenges.
She also emphasized the three pillars of knowledge advocated by Dr. Kalam creativity, righteousness and courage and encouraged students to nurture honesty, integrity, compassion and commitment in their professional journey.
Quoting Rumi, Dr. Noronha told the students that education and nursing profession give them “wings of knowledge, skill and service” to rise and serve humanity.
Presiding over the program, AEF Trustee Vivek Alva, said it was a matter of pride that the lamp-lighting ceremony for newly admitted students has been conducted ever since the establishment of the nursing college. The lamp-lighting ceremony was not merely a tradition, but a symbol of spreading the light of knowledge, service and humanity to society.
Alva observed that one need not wait for the “right time” to begin a good initiative in life. “Time waits for none. One must move forward courageously when opportunities arise. What is required to begin any work is self-confidence and determination,” he said. Describing nursing as a noble profession founded on service, compassion and human values, he urged students to cultivate values alongside knowledge and professional skills.
Principal Dr Yathikumar Swamygowda, Shaila Mendees, Vice Principal Renuka Bhandary was present on the occasion.