Iyienu College Of Nursing Sciences Matriculates 264 Student Nurses, Midwives

• Tasks Matriculants with Commitment to Christian Values and Compassion

By Uzo Ugwunze…

Anglican Bishop on the Niger, Rt. Rev. Dr. Owen Nwokolo has charged student nurses and midwives to be steadfast, dedicated, and committed to Christian values.

The charge was given during the 45th Matriculation and Capping Ceremony of the 2024/2025 student nurses and midwives at the College of Nursing Sciences Iyienu, Anambra State.

Speaking through a representative, Ven. Samuel Ezewudo, Subdean of All Saints Cathedral, Onitsha, the Bishop reminded the students of the Diocese of the Niger’s motto: “Show the Light.”

He charged them to “show the light” in their academics and morals, reflecting God’s light in their environment and the world at large. He noted that many alumni of the college have become beacons of light.

“Be steadfast and dedicated to your studies, and remain committed to Christian values, as this college is a Christian community. I urge you to be resilient during these challenging times.

“Our country needs people of good character. I encourage you to embrace good qualities so that when you leave here, you will be better representatives not only of the school but also of the Diocese of the Niger and the body of Christ at large,” he said.

In her welcome address, the Provost of the College of Nursing Sciences, Iyienu, Mrs. Ngozi J. Nduka, implored the newly admitted students to take their relationship with God seriously.

“University on the Niger Teaching Hospital, Iyienu, is a faith-based institution, and we are interested in nurturing your spiritual well-being. To this end, chapel attendance is compulsory.

“You are expected to participate in every spiritual activity organized by the chaplaincy; all of this will contribute to making you a well-rounded individual.”

“The College has zero tolerance for sexual immorality, drug use and abuse, examination malpractice, and other social vices,” she said.

Mrs. Nduka outlined the needs of the College of Nursing Sciences Iyienu, including: (i) a new coaster bus for excursions and inter-college/campus studies, and (ii) stocking the college’s library with modern medical books.

Presenting her speech, themed “Nursing Education Reform in Nigeria: The Place of ND Nursing,” the Guest of Honor, Dr. Florence Sibeudu, stated that the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) has led the transformation of the nursing profession in Nigeria towards academic progression and global recognition, ensuring that nursing education aligns with modern standards and global best practices.

“Globally, nursing education has evolved into university and polytechnic systems, preparing nurses to be not only caregivers but also innovators, researchers, and policy advocates. This includes offering the National Diploma (ND) in Nursing, the Higher National Diploma (HND) in Nursing, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.Sc. Nursing), the Post Graduate Diploma in Nursing (PGDN), the M.Sc., and the Ph.D. Nursing.  Graduates of HND or B.Sc. nursing science will be enrolled by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).”

“As new students, you have chosen a profession that embodies empathy, dedication, and honesty. It is a journey into a vocation—a commitment to service, compassion, and humility,” said Dr. Sibeudu.

Furthermore, the Director of Administration at University of the Niger Teaching Hospital, Iyienu, Rev. Nonso Stanley Anene, stated: “Iyienu is synonymous with excellence.

Iyienu was the first school of Nursing and Midwifery in Nigeria, graduating its first class in 1931 and producing Miss Kemmer Fatepigi (now Mrs. Koripamo) as the first Nigerian midwife.”              “All over the world, the name ‘Iyienu Hospital’ is recognized. We are glad that God has allowed us to produce healthcare professionals who are thriving worldwide. With over 200 new intakes who will eventually practice in the Nigerian healthcare sector, which is facing a workforce shortage due to ‘Japa’ (brain drain), we are playing a significant role.”

“The students should remember where they are. In Iyienu, we don’t just train nurses; we train disciplined nurses. As a mission hospital and school, we instill discipline. The students should remember the ‘Iyienu Excellent’ brand and endeavor not to disappoint us,” said Rev. Anene.

One of the matriculants, Victory Chisom Ikenna, expressed her elation at being admitted to the prestigious faith-based institution known for excellence and for producing astute nurses and midwives, thanking God for making her dream a reality. Chisom Ikenna pledged to do her best to make her parents, Dr. Henry Obidimma and Sis. Uche Henry, proud of graduating with honors, stated that she was passionate about using her nursing profession to serve God and humanity.

Sis. Uche Henry said that the major reasons behind their choice of Iyienu College of Nursing Sciences for their daughter included the quality of learning and the emphasis on the fear of God practiced in the school.

Another ND 1 student, Ugwuoke Felicia Onyinye, prayed for God’s continued blessings upon her parents and guardians, who sacrifice much to sponsor them in their chosen career despite the harsh economic realities in the country. She also vowed to obey all the rules and regulations of the school.

Highlights of the matriculation included the matriculation vow/oath-taking, capping ceremony, cutting of the cake, the arrival of Florence Nightingale, the presentation of gifts to outstanding students, and a cultural dance performance.