New nursing trainees hold their lamps during the CIHSR lamp-lighting ceremony in Chümoukedima on November 14. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Chümoukedima | November 14
The lamp-lighting ceremony of the College of Nursing, CIHSR, was held this evening at LG Hall, CIHSR. The symbolic event marked the induction of the 15th batch of General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM) students and the 12th batch of BSc Nursing students.
Addressing the newly inducted students as the chief guest, Prof Mercy John, former Principal of CON, CHB, Odisha, fondly recalled her own lamp-lighting ceremony years ago. She remembered the traditional attire they had to wear and remarked that she could not recall any of the speeches from that day.
Prof Mercy spoke of the beauty and preciousness of the nursing profession. Drawing from the nurses’ pledge, she emphasised ethical practice, dedication, and compassion as foundational values. She encouraged students to uphold these qualities throughout their training and future careers.
Focusing on the word ‘purity,’ she referenced scholar Mary Elizabeth O’Brien’s work on spirituality in nursing. Prof Mercy explained that purity in nursing is reflected through ‘compassionate presence,’ an attitude of sincerity, empathy, and intentional care. Beyond clinical skills, she said that nurses must cultivate genuine compassion, as this shapes the trust patients place in them.
She noted that patients often rely on the nurse’s uniform as a symbol of responsibility and trust. A nurse’s compassionate presence, she added, can open doors for patients to share their stories and struggles more freely.
Quoting John 15:16, the professor reminded the students that they are ‘chosen’ and encouraged them not to worry about their future, assuring them that ‘God has a plan.’ She shared her own journey of initially resisting nursing before realising how meaningful the profession became in her life. She said that it took her many years to understand this.
Calling nursing a ‘holy profession,’ she urged students to practice humility and be mindful of their words and actions when caring for patients.
Drawing parallels between the work of nurses and the ministry of Jesus, she said that while healing ultimately comes from God, nurses play a vital role in aiding that process. “We are in the profession of our Creator,” she remarked. “It is profound to think we are in the profession of Jesus himself.”
The chief guest also reminded students that the lamp-lighting tradition represents the legacy of Florence Nightingale and the responsibilities handed down to every new generation of nurses.
Altogether, 100 students—50 from GNM and 50 from BSc Nursing, took part in the ceremony and pledged their commitment to the profession.
Earlier in the programme, CIHSR Director Dr Sedevi Angami exhorted the students while Dr T Lipoksanen Jamir, Senior Consultant, Ophthalmology, offered a prayer of dedication. The ceremony was led by Imliyangla, Assistant Professor, CON, CIHSR.
