As the curtains fell on the week-long International Nurses Week celebrations at Kaimosi Friends University, a spirit of reflection, gratitude and celebration filled the air as students, staff and university leaders gathered to mark the climax of the event.

The occasion not only celebrated the nursing profession but also highlighted the transformative role nurses continue to play in society and the health sector at large.

Members of staff led by DVC ASAR Prof Fred Amimo join Nursing students for a group photo before sporting activities to mark the International week of nurses

Addressing nursing students and members of staff from the School of Health Sciences, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic, Students’ Affairs and Research, Prof. Fred Amimo, led the celebrations by reaffirming the university’s pride in its nursing programme, describing it as the institution’s niche area of excellence.

“Nursing is more than a profession; it is a calling that demands dignity, compassion and commitment even in the most demanding circumstances,” said Prof. Amimo who represented the Vice Chancellor.

DVC ASAR Prof. Fred Amimo addressing students and staff from the School of Health Sciences during the last day of the International nurse’s week celebrations

Prof. Amimo further applauded the courage and determination consistently demonstrated by nursing students at the university and acknowledged the week-long outreach activities undertaken by the department, including a visit by students to a Cerebral Palsy Centre in Vihiga County. He further called for joint efforts among stakeholders in addressing the challenges facing healthcare services and supporting vulnerable members of the society.

From L to R: Dr. Cyprian Mabonga (Dean School of Health Sciences), Prof. Fred Amimo (DVC-ASAR), Dr. Damaris Ochanda and Dr. Sarah Makong’o cut a cake to mark the nurse’s week final celebrations

The Dean of the School of Health Sciences, Dr. Cyprian Mabonga, paid tribute to the pioneers of the nursing profession, noting that their sacrifices continue to shape modern healthcare systems.

“Nurses are the heart of the medical profession because they possess the preventive power that keeps communities healthy,” remarked Dr. Mabonga.

He reiterated that nursing remains a flagship programme at Kaimosi Friends University, highlighting the university’s commitment to producing highly skilled and socially responsible healthcare professionals.

The Chair of the Department of Nursing, Dr Anne Asiko, challenged students to view nursing as a transformative profession capable of changing lives and strengthening communities economically and socially.

“The nursing profession is a tool of transformation to society and a meaningful contributor to the economy,” she stated.

Students give a round of applause after listening to remarks by the DVC ASAR Prof. Fred Amimo at the Governor’s hall.

Dr. Asiko also raised concern over the increasing cases of cerebral palsy in the country, emphasizing the need for nurses to strengthen preventive healthcare while addressing the inequalities and neglect often experienced by persons living with disabilities. She called for greater disability awareness and the development of more inclusive healthcare systems.

She also expressed gratitude to members of staff for their dedication in mentoring and nurturing a responsible nursing workforce.

The celebrations later transitioned into a lively atmosphere as students and university staff participated in various sporting activities aimed at promoting physical wellness and strengthening social bonds within the university community.

The participants enthusiastically engaged in games such as tug of war, bottle race, egg relay and the three-legged race, activities that organizers described as important in encouraging teamwork, fitness and healthy living.

KAFU Nursing students taking part in egg relay during the climax of international nurse’s week

The climax of the Nurses Week celebrations not only honored the dedication of nurses but also reaffirmed Kaimosi Friends University’s continued commitment to excellence in health sciences training and community service.