International Nurses and Midwives Day is celebrated annually on 12 May, and this year the North-West University (NWU) paid tribute to all nurses for the key role they play in society, and especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Student Life shows appreciation

The Student Life department on the Mahikeng Campus celebrated the day by reaching out to the nurses at the Health Centre to show appreciation for the work they are doing.

Lerato Wana, acting director for student life, said the nurses at the Health Centre play an important role in the wellness of students and employees alike.

“Right now, nurses are at the frontline of the battle against the Covid-19 pandemic, and they are not given the recognition they deserve. Therefore, we wanted to pay them the respect they deserve on this special day,” she added.

She also thanked them for the sterling job they are doing.

Stephanie van der Walt, who has been a professional nurse for 14 years, said she was humbled by the department’s gesture.

“Being a nurse is such a wonderful career, especially because I get to connect with my patients on a level not many other individuals have the opportunity to do.

“The Covid-19 pandemic is a challenge to all healthcare workers, but we try to stay positive and focused,” said Stephanie.

 “This year the International Day of Nurses comes at a time where the world is facing a cruel pandemic that is rapidly causing devastation in all aspect of life,” said Tshepo Theletsane, manager of the Health Centre and nurse by profession.

“The nursing profession has over the years faced many challenges, pandemics included. However, it has survived for decades and will continue to do so,” she said.

“On this day we commemorate all the nurses who have passed on due to Covid-19 related complications, and we also extend this commemoration to their families.

“To the nurses who continue to care for the sick and the aged, we applaud you and wish you good health and strong mental focus. May all the nurses of the world experience a joyful International Nurses day,” concluded Tshepo.

A silent vigil for their sacrifices

On the Potchefstroom Campus lecturers from the School of Nursing held a silent vigil in Lover's Lane.

Observing Covid-19 regulations and standing two meters apart, lecturers stood with bowed heads, holding posters and pledge lamps in honour of those colleagues who have lost their lives, as well as those who continue to fight the virus every day.

“Our lecturers, students and colleagues are acutely aware of the sacrifices that nurses and their loved ones make on a daily basis to attend to patients diagnosed with Covid-19,” said Dr Elsabè Bornman, deputy director of the school.

About International Nurses and Midwives Day

This day is celebrated annually on 12 May, the birthday of the founder of modern-day nursing, Florence Nightingale.

Lecturers from the School of Nursing on the Potchefstroom Campus hold a silent vigil on International Nurses Day.