International Nurses Day 2026

Date: 12 May 2026
Time: 10:00 AM
Venue:Dr Sr Veronica Pitt’s Auditorium
Organised by: Student Nurses’ Association (SNA), St. Philomena’s College of Nursing
Theme: “Our Nurses. Our Future. Empowered Nurses Save Lives”

The Student Nurses’ Association of St. Philomena’s College of Nursing celebrated International Nurses Day 2026 on 12 May 2026 at Dr Sr Veronica Pitts Auditorium. The day honoured the dedication of nurses, the hands that heal, the minds that care and the hearts that serve, and brought the students, faculty and management together to celebrate the profession and the achievements of Nurses Week. The programme was compered by Ms. Nyima and Ms. Ancita. It began with an invocation song by Ms. Christina and group of III year GNM, offering the day and the work of nursing to the Almighty. Mr. Melkisadek, Vice President of the SNA, then delivered the welcome address, warmly welcoming the dignitaries, faculty, staff and students.

In tribute to the founder of modern nursing, the gathering honoured Florence Nightingale, the “Lady with the Lamp”, whose tireless service in the 1850s defined the profession. The Chief Guest, the Superiors of both convents, the Medical Director, the Principal, the Administrator and the Nursing Superintendent paid their respects, and the gathering reflected on the legacy of service that every nurse carries forward.

A graceful Indian solo dance was followed by the Nurses Week Report, presented by Ms. Jyothika, Secretary of the SNA, who described the sports, arts and literary competitions held during the week. A lively duet dance came next. The first round of prize distribution, for Events 1 to 15, was carried out by Ms. Sneha Theresa Sebastian, Nursing Tutor, Department of OBG Nursing, and Assistant SNA Adviser, who presented trophies and certificates to the winners.

After a melodious group song and an Indian group dance, the formal proceedings began. The Principal, Rev. Sr. Martha, introduced and welcomed the Chief Guest, Prof. Reena Menon, who then delivered the Nurses Day address, reminding the students of the purpose behind their learning and of the difference that every small act of care makes in a patient’s life.

The cultural programme continued with a variety entertainment that showcased the hidden talents of the students, and a fashion show in which the stage was turned into a runway full of creativity and confidence. The second round of prize distribution, for Events 16 to 30, was carried out by Dr. Blaze Rosario, Professor and HOD, Department of OBG Nursing, and SNA Adviser. A final energetic western group dance brought the cultural programme to a close.

Ms. Thelma, Additional Vice President of the SNA, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the management, faculty, support staff, performers and everyone whose planning and hard work made the celebration a success. The programme concluded with the College Anthem, with the gathering standing together as one Philomena family.