The Annual Day and 69th batch of Diploma Nursing students' Lamp Lighting Ceremony of Manipal School of Nursing, MCON, MAHE, was held on March 6, 2026, at the Dr. TMA Pai Auditorium, MAHE, Manipal, with pride and solemnity. The event was celebrated with deep reverence in the presence of dignitaries, faculty, students, parents, and well-wishers.

The dignitaries who graced the occasion included the Chief Guest, Dr. Aldrin Vas; Professor and Principal, Tejasvini Nursing Institute, Mangalore; Dr. Judith A. Noronha, Dean, MCON; Dr. Leena Sequira, Principal, Manipal School of Nursing, MCON, MAHE, Manipal; Convenor Ms Bharathi, and First Year Class Coordinator Ms Shalet Alva. The program began with a soulful invocation song rendered by a student group, seeking divine blessings for the ceremony and the students stepping into professional life.

Following the invocation, Ms Bharathi extended a warm welcome to all dignitaries and guests, faculty, and students. The dignitaries lit the ceremonial lamp, symbolising the light of knowledge, compassion, and service. A floral tribute to Florence Nightingale was offered as a mark of respect and gratitude.

The highlight of the ceremony was the lamp lighting, which was guided by Dr. Aldrin Vas, Dr. Judith A. Noronha, Dr. Tessy Tressa Jose, Associate Dean, MCON, and Dr. Leena Sequira. The oath-taking session was led by Dr. Leena Sequeira. The students solemnly pledged to uphold the principles of integrity, empathy, and ethical practice in their nursing careers.

The Chief guest, Dr. Aldrin Vas, in his thought-provoking address, emphasised the importance of honesty and inculcating the values in life. Sir also advised the students to participate in extracurricular activities, such as NSS, to develop leadership skills.  He congratulated the new batch of students for stepping into a profession.

Dr Judith A. Noronha, Dean, MCON, MAHE, Manipal, in her presidential address, advised students on the importance of lighting the lamp and taking the oath. It signifies passing the knowledge, spirit of service, and compassion that every nurse should have. She also advised the students on the importance of nurses in the health care profession.

Ms. Shalet Snehalatha Alva proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all the dignitaries, faculty members, students, and attendees for their support in making the event a success. The formal function was followed by a cultural program by students and faculty. The program ended with the National Anthem. The event contributed to Sustainable Development Goal 3- “Good health and wellbeing.”