Meenakshi College of Nursing solemnly conducted the Lamp Lighting Ceremony on 12th December 2025, a time-honoured tradition in nursing education that commemorates the legacy of Florence Nightingale and formally inducts novice students into the noble nursing profession. The ceremony symbolized the transition of students from learners to future caregivers committed to service, compassion, and ethical practice.
The programme commenced with the rendition of Tamil Thai Vazhthu by the B.Sc. Nursing students, setting a reverent tone for the occasion. Dr. Jayabharathi B, Vice Principal, Meenakshi College of Nursing, delivered the welcome address and warmly greeted the gathering. The event was graced by the presence of the Chief Guest, Mrs. Marie Henseli M, Nursing Superintendent, MGM Cancer Care Institute, Chennai. The dignitaries ceremonially lit the lamp, signifying the illumination of knowledge, empathy, and dedication that defines the nursing profession.
Dr. Fabiola M. Dhanaraj, Principal, Meenakshi College of Nursing, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the historical and professional significance of the Lamp Lighting Ceremony and its relevance in shaping responsible and compassionate nurses. The dignitaries paid homage to Florence Nightingale, the “Lady with the Lamp,” by garlanding her portrait, acknowledging her enduring contribution to modern nursing. Lamps were then lit for 37 novice nursing students, following which the Nursing Oath was administered by the Principal, during which the students pledged to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct, service, and integrity.
The solemnity of the ceremony was further enhanced by a devotional song, “Brighten the Corner,” which resonated with the spirit of service and selflessness. In her address, the Chief Guest congratulated the students on choosing nursing as a profession and emphasized the importance of commitment, discipline, and a positive professional attitude in their journey ahead.
The Principal congratulated the newly inducted students and encouraged them to strive for academic excellence, develop strong clinical competencies, and nurture a compassionate outlook in patient care. As part of the ceremony, academic excellence awards were presented to students in recognition of their outstanding performance in end-semester examinations, exemplary discipline, and high attendance.
The programme concluded on a gracious note with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr. Kavitha M, Professor, Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, marking a meaningful and inspiring beginning to the professional journey of the new nursing cohort.
