In a historic event, the Adventist College of Nursing Sciences Jengre (ACONS -J) celebrated the inaugural capping and jacketing of its 81 pioneer Basic Nursing students on Friday, September 20, 2024, marking their transition from studenthood to professionals in the field of nursing.

The ceremony, held at the auditorium of the Seventh-day Adventist Jengre Hospital Church, Jengre, Plateau State, Nigeria, highlighted the significance of integrating faith and learning as essential tools for caregiving.

The capping and jacketing ceremony is a time-honored tradition in the nursing profession, symbolizing the transition from theoretical learning to practical, hands-on patient care, remarked the guest speaker, Dr. Aridi Elkana Simon, Deputy director of Nursing Services, at the Plateau State Hospital Management Board.

The ceremony, according to him: “symbolizes a crucial rite of passage for nursing students, signifying their formal entry into clinical practice and their commitment to uphold the core values of nursing -- compassion, ethics, and professionalism."

The cap, he said: “Represents service and dedication, while the jacket stands as a symbol of responsibility and readiness to embrace the challenges of the nursing profession.”

Speaking on the theme "Faith and Learning: Effective Tools for Caregiving”, Dr. Simon noted that the combination of faith and learning equips nurses to provide holistic care, addressing the physical needs of patients and their emotional and spiritual well-being.

"Nursing is not just about technical expertise; it is about caring for the whole person – body, mind, and soul. Faith and ethics are integral to providing that care," he stated.

The Acting Chairman, West Africa Post Graduate College of Nursing & Midwifery, Plateau State Chapter, encouraged the students to embrace healthy learning as it would; improve patients’ satisfaction, enhance morale, stimulate better health outcome as well as increase efficiency and reduce errors.

Earlier, Dr. Istifanus Ishaya, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church Northern Nigeria Union Conference, had in a sermonette, challenged the students not to neglect the values of compassion, empathy, excellence, integrity, and resilience in caregiving.

“Today marks a significant milestone in your journey as future healthcare professionals. As you receive your caps and jackets today, it is not just a symbol of your academic achievements but a reminder of the profound responsibility that lies ahead."

He added, “Embrace your calling, knowing that nursing is more than a profession. You are entrusted to the care of others during their most vulnerable moments. Embrace this privilege with compassion, dedication, and integrity."

“As I congratulate you today, I challenge you to also commit to live-long learning, cultivate resilience and do not hesitate to share your experiences with your peers; together you can foster a supporting environment. You are the future of healthcare in Nigeria and beyond. Let your journey as nurses be marked by excellence and empathy”, Dr. Ishaya charged.

Jonathan Precious, a student who was awarded the best-performing student nurse, described the ceremony as “evidence of not relenting”. “It has been an incredible journey. With the award given to me, I feel challenged to sustain the momentum”, he gratefully said.

For Bali Divine Peter, who expressed her gratitude to God for the spiritual and academic support she has so far received from the institution, revealed that her dream is to become a reputable nurse wherever she finds herself.

Godswill Chichetam, a student, said: “The capping and jacketing ceremony is one of the best times I have had in ACONS-J and I hope to have many more in the future”.

Another student, Irene Agu said it has been an amazing experience coming from Lagos State to the northern part of Nigeria to study.

“I have come to stay in ACONS-J, I will never be a drop out and this will be my last bus stop and I will make my parents and those that depend on me proud. Above all, I shall succeed through Christ that strengthens me”, she prayed.

Musa Yusuf Madaki is the course Rep of ACONS-J pioneer Basic Nursing students. According to him, it has been quite a journey.

He states, “God has been faithful. It is indeed an honor to be part of the first set of ACONS-J. This ceremony is a beautiful experience that signifies the beginning of a great responsibility. We are now stepping into a role that demands not just medical expertise but also kindness, patience, and empathy. I pray that God will continue to build us to become something great that will help the nation at large”.

It event resonated with thoughtful goodwill messages from some of the dignitaries, appreciating the college management for keeping up the standard as evidenced in the students’ overall performances. They also applauded the students for their resilience, encouraging them to remain committed and courageous in their academic journeys.

One of the messages came from the immediate past NNUC President Yohanna Harry.

Harry admonished the students to trust the system and strive to become their very best.

He said, “We are not competing with anybody. Focus on your studies and become what you want to become. As far as nursing profession is concerned, the sky is the beginning of your success”.

The event was attended by church leaders and members, nursing professionals from Plateau State Hospital Management Board and Adventist Jengre Hospital, as well as the parents and guardians of the students.

The Adventist College of Nursing Sciences, Jengre was established to develop healthcare professionals who are both competent in their field and deeply rooted in Christian ethics. As the institution continues to grow, it remains committed to producing nurses who will not only excel in clinical expertise but also serve as beacons of compassion and integrity in the healthcare sector.

The original article was provided by the West Central Africa Division.