At the ceremony, held at the University of Ulster in Coleraine, each student is presented with a University badge in recognition of the successful completion of his/her programme of study and achievement of registration as a nurse. There is also a presentation of sponsored awards to students who have demonstrated outstanding performance in specific fields of practice.
The Minister, Michael McGimpsey congratulated all the students for their efforts and thanked the staff at the University for guiding and supporting them through their study years.
The Minister said: “This is a team effort and I’m sure you would also want me to acknowledge the patients that you have had the privilege to care for during this period.
“As you know we learn not only from books but also from each other, and from the experience of caring for and treating patients. If we are to be successful in what we do, we have to nurture that ability to learn – you are at the start of your professional lives – and the science and art of nursing and medicine will continue to change.
“As nurses what you do affects every single person in Northern Ireland at some time in their lives. You help people to live healthier lives, support those with a disability or chronic disease, to achieve their full potential, and care for those who are terminally ill.”
Paying tribute to the nursing profession the Minister said: “You form the largest group of staff in Health and Social Care, whether it be in the public or independent sector and you are a crucial part of the system. Indeed I believe you are the 'backbone' of the system. You work in every sort of health setting from accident and emergency to working in patients’ homes, with people of all ages and backgrounds.
“The public hold you in high regard – as highly qualified, competent professionals with relevant expertise and experience.
“I have great respect and admiration for what you do and you can make a real difference to the patients who depend on you.”
Notes to editors:
- One hundred and eighty students received a badge at the ceremony which included 130 pre-registration students and 50 post-registration students
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