The Lamp Lighting Ceremony for the 37th batch of BSc Nursing students of Manipal College of Nursing (MCON), MAHE, was held on October 22, 2025, with pride and solemnity. The event, signifying the formal entry of the students into the noble nursing profession, was celebrated with deep reverence in the presence of dignitaries, faculty, students, parents, and well-wishers. The ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the profession’s values of compassion, service, and devotion to humanity.

The dignitaries who graced the occasion included the Chief Guest, Dr. Seema Rajesh Rao, Director and Consultant, Manipal Hospice and Respite Centre (MHRC), MAHE, Manipal, Dr. Judith A. Noronha, Dean, MCON, and Dr. Savitha Prabhu, Class Coordinator. The program began with a soulful invocation song rendered by Ms. Sharal and her group, seeking divine blessings for the ceremony and the students stepping into professional life.

Following the invocation, Dr. Savitha Prabhu extended a warm welcome to all dignitaries and guests, faculty and students, setting the tone for an inspiring event. The dignitaries, along with Ms. Khushi, Class President, then lit the ceremonial lamp, symbolizing the light of knowledge, compassion, and service. A floral tribute to Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, was offered as a mark of respect and gratitude.

The Chief guest, Dr. Seema Rajesh Rao, in her thought-provoking address, emphasized the pivotal role of nurses in maintaining the quality of healthcare systems. She remarked that the quality of a hospital reflects the quality and dedication of its nurses. Dr. Rao encouraged the students to uphold values of respect, dignity, compassion, and empathy, urging them to treat all patients with kindness and professionalism. She congratulated the new batch for stepping into a profession that demands both skill and heart.

The highlight of the ceremony was the lamp lighting, which was guided by Dr. Judith A. Noronha, Dean of MCON, Dr Tessy Tressa Jose, Associate Dean, MCON, Mrs Shakunthala Shanbhog, and Mrs Vinaya Sukumari, Deputy Nursing Superintendent. The oath-taking session was led by Dr. Judith A. Noronha, Dean of MCON. The students solemnly pledged to uphold the principles of integrity, empathy, and ethical practice in their nursing careers.

Dr. Noronha underscored the day’s significance and emphasized the values and qualities essential for novice nurses as they start their professional journey.

The formal program concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the guests, organizers, faculty, and parents for their presence and support. Ms. Bindu, Lecturer at Manipal College of Nursing, efficiently compered the event. The meaningful celebration, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education.