Mangalore Diocese News

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 11th February 2025 at the Milagres Auditorium. This event marked a significant milestone in the students' academic and professional journey, symbolizing their formal entry into the esteemed nursing profession.

The program commenced with a soulful prayer song, setting the tone for the spiritual and reflective atmosphere of the ceremony, followed by a welcome dance. Dr. Diana Lobo, Principal of Milagres College of Nursing, welcomed the gathering.

The proceedings began with a 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 foundress of nursing.

Prof. Victoria, Vice Principal, enlightened the gathering on the significance of this ceremony.

The 35 students, in a touching ceremony, 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.

Dr. Veena Gretta Tauro, the Chief Guest, addressed the gathering and encouraged the students to embody the values of the oath in their nursing care, becoming a beacon of hope to every patient.

The Student Nurses' Association unit of Milagres College of Nursing was inaugurated digitally by Rev. Fr. Bonaventure Nazareth and Rev. Dr. Michel Santhumayor. The association provides an excellent platform for student nurses to engage in curricular and co-curricular programs, communicate issues and concerns relevant to nursing, and promote legislative involvement. The newly elected office-bearers were conferred with sashes by Rev. Fr. Bonaventure Nazareth and Rev. Dr. Michel Santhumayor, and they pledged to work diligently and uphold the honor and glory of the institution.

The Guest of Honor, Dr. Vaishali Sreejith, Vice Principal of Dr. MV Shetty College of Physiotherapy and Senate Member of RGUHS, Bengaluru, wished the students all the best as they embarked on their careers in professional nursing. She encouraged the novice nurses to be sincere, hardworking, skillful, and vigilant in their profession to grow into proficient nurses.

Rev. 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 upliftment and welfare.

Prof. Victoria D'Almeida delivered the vote of thanks. The ceremony concluded with a delicious lunch. The dignitaries present included Rev. Fr. Uday Fernandes, Principal of Milagres Central School, and Mr. Melvin Vas, Principal of Milagres PUC.

The program was attended by the parents of the novice nurses, Milagres Parish Council and Housing Society members, Rev. Sisters, students, and faculty of the College of Nursing. Prof. Irene Dias compered the event.