New batch of 80 ushered into Nursing training at SMCN

by REBYNA RANA
GANGTOK, 09 May: The lamp-lighting ceremony of the ninth batch [2012] of B.Sc Nursing first year students of Sikkim Manipal College of Nursing [SMCN] was held here at the SMIMS auditorium today.
Addressing the function, Sikkim Manipal University Vice Chancellor, Brig. Dr. Somnath Mishra, congratulated the students on having chosen such a noble profession as nursing. “We must salute them for their decision,” he shared.
Principal, Sikkim Manipal College of Nursing [SMCN], Prof. Mridula Das, informed that there are 304 students at SMCN, 80 of whom make up the first year batch. With the ceremony today, the 80 were introduced into the training after taking a pledge to maintain professional loyalty. The lamp lighting signifies the firm decision of these young students to be trained to care for the sick and ailing. The lighting of the lamp symbolizes transfer of knowledge, skills and spirit of nursing.
The VC invited the new batch to take even deeper inspiration from the life and sacrifices of Florence Nightingale, the Lady with the Lamp, who used to make rounds of the patient wards with an oil lamp, moving along the lines of the cots with friendly words, smiles and comfort for the patients assisting their recovery. 
“The lamp will always shine bright as a symbol of care and devotion the nurses administer to the sick and the injured,” he said, stressing that the ritual provides opportunity, guiding the students and making them aware of the responsibility they carry as nurses.
Likewise, the SMIMS Dean, Air Marshal Dr. GS Jonega, in his address, congratulated the new batch on their decision to become nurses and held up their role in healthcare as indispensible.
“Smile and always be compassionate,” he offered by way of advise.
Meanwhile, the SMCN Principal, Prof. Das presented the annual report of the college and informed that college has been achieving 100% job placement.
The function was also attended by the Vice-Chancellor for ICFAI University, SG Tashi, faculty members, HoDs of SMU and SMIMS and students.