The nursing profession is not about money; it is a calling for those entrusted to go the extra mile in caring for the sick. ‘There is great need to restore the dignity of the work started by our icon, Florence Nightingale.’ This was the message delivered by the Principal of KwaZulu Natal College of Nursing, Dr Sinothile Mthembu.

She was addressing student nurses who converged at the University of Zululand’s chapel, last week, where they received their graduation badges, pledging to serve and take care of the patients. She reminded students to adhere to the principles of nursing despite the enormous challenges that come with the job. ‘We are required to be calm all the time when we execute our duties as nurses, as the lives of our patients depend on us. We dare not fail them. ‘We need to reclaim our professionalism to a level where many people would prefer using government hospitals rather than private hospitals, which are costly. ‘This however will only materialise if we correct our mindset and refocus our attitudes towards serving our people better. ‘We are motivated by the theme Year 2020, which will celebrate the 200 years since our profession was founded,’ she said. Dr Kerr Acting HO D in the campus and Dr Mondli Miya with some of the student nurses lighting candles as a sign of respect to the profession