MAHE Marks International Nurses’ Day 2026 with Focus on Empowering Nurses
Manipal, May 19 2026: Manipal College of Nursing (MCON) a constituent unit of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, and Manipal School of Nursing (MSON), Manipal, celebrated International Nurses’ Day 2026 by organising a series of academic, professional, and cultural activities centred on the International Council of Nurses (ICN) theme for the year, “Our Nurses, Our Future: Empowered Nurses Save Lives.”
International Nurses’ Day is observed annually to commemorate the birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, and to recognise the dedication, compassion, and invaluable contributions of nurses to society worldwide. The formal celebration was held on May 13, 2026, in Manipal.
Mrs Janet Prameela D’Souza, Convener of International Nurses’ Day 2026, presented a detailed report of the Nurses’ Week celebrations conducted as part of the observance. The week featured a seminar on the ICN theme, a workshop on trauma management, a television interview focusing on the significance of the theme, and several student competitions, including elocution, collage-making, reel-making, and poster presentations.
The chief guest, Dr Shyamala Kumar, Nursing Director, Royal Care Super Speciality Hospital, Coimbatore, delivered an inspiring keynote address on the theme, “Our Nurses, Our Future: Empowered Nurses Save Lives.” Emphasising the transformative role of nurses in modern healthcare systems, she remarked that “the presence of a nurse is the ultimate medicine.” She reflected on the emotional, professional, and ethical responsibilities shouldered by nurses and highlighted the importance of resilience, lifelong learning, positive practice environments, and shared governance in healthcare.
Dr Shyamala Kumar further stressed that nursing is not merely a profession, but a “beautiful burden” rooted in compassion, leadership, and patient-centred care. She also underscored the significance of nurse wellbeing, climate-resilient healthcare systems, shared governance, and continuous professional development in shaping the future of global healthcare delivery.
As part of the celebration, two distinguished nursing professionals were honoured for their exemplary service and contribution to patient care, community health, and student mentorship. Mrs Sujatha B, Ward Sister, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, and Mrs Lakshmi B, Senior Health Assistant, Primary Health Centre, Hiriadka, received special recognition during the programme. Dr Leena Sequira, Principal, Manipal School of Nursing, highlighted the achievements and dedicated service of the awardees.
The Award for Excellence in Clinical Practice, instituted by Dr Kasturi R. Adiga, former Principal of Manipal School of Nursing, was presented to Mr Shiva Prasada, Staff Nurse, Department of Emergency Medicine. Student awards were presented to Mr Abhishek Kumar, second-year PBBSc Nursing student (2024-25 batch), and Ms Saniya Das, third-year GNM student (2024-25 batch), in recognition of their academic and clinical excellence.
The initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development (SDGs) Goal 4, Quality Education, which emphasises inclusive and equitable quality education and the promotion of lifelong learning opportunities for all.
