The School of Nursing at Naga Hospital Authority Kohima celebrated its 75th anniversary on October 8, under the theme “Nurturing Nurses, Transforming Lives: Celebrating a Legacy,” at Molu Ki, Merhülietsa Kohima.
Chief Guest, Minister of Health and Family welfare P.Paiwang Konyak in his speech stated that the celebration is a day to honour the journey of the institution, which has shaped and nurtured generations of compassionate and skilled healthcare professionals. “Over the years, the healthcare landscape has changed significantly, but what remains constant is the role of the nurse as the heartbeat of care. Nurses are the ones who offer not just medical assistance but a hand to hold, a calming presence in times of fear and a voice of hope,” stated Konyak adding that theq School of Nursing, Naga Hospital Authority Kohima has played an integral role in cultivating those vital traits and skills in every nurse that walks through its doors.
He also highlighted that the Central Government has sanctioned two Nursing Colleges attached to Medical Colleges: one in Nagaland Institute of Medical Science & Research (NIMSR) Kohima and the other in the upcoming Mon Medical College. This will address the workforce shortage, improve accessibility to nursing education and enhance quality care.
The minister also reminded the nurses to be cautious of the ethical and legal considerations related to data security and patient confidentiality as understanding how to navigate these concerns ensures trust and adherence to legal standards. He also noted that today is a day to remember all the former and present dedicated faculties. Their commitment to innovation, patient-centered care and academic excellence sets a high standard for nursing education. “We also owe a gratitude to the two Spanish Catholic nuns: Sister Margaret and Sister Paula and other four Doctors: Dr. Bordoloi, Dr. Saikia, Dr. Dutta, Dr. T.Ao and Dr. Thakur who first served as main trainers and teachers respectively. They have imparted knowledge and wisdom and the values of this institution during the initial period of this institution in 1949,” mentioned the Health Minister.
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Konyak stated that the alumni of the school are its greatest testament where many have gone on to become leaders, mentors and change-makers in the field of nursing and inspire the next generation to follow in their footsteps. Stating that the students and graduates, remember that are the torchbearers of this legacy just as the theme also says “Celebrating a Legacy”. He also stated that the skills they acquire are not just about performing tasks; they are about touching lives bringing comfort to the sick, hope to the weary and strength to the weak.
With this significant milestone, Konyak hoped that they will be able to take the pride in their achievements and reaffirm their commitment to excellence, continue to foster a spirit of lifelong learning, collaboration and compassion, embrace the possibilities of the future while staying true to the values that have guided us for 75 remarkable years.
The guest of honor, Principal Director Dr. E. Motsuthung Patton, delivered a speech. Dr. Christy Simpson, former Principal of the College of Nursing CIHSR Chumoukedima, spoke on “Nursing Nurses: Transforming Lives and Celebrating a Legacy.” L. Abenla Jamir, retired Joint Director of Nursing DHFW, offered an exhortation. The program began with an invocation by KABA Senior Pastor Rev. Sentisashi Aier and concluded with a benediction by S. Anungla, Pastor of Chang Baptist Church.