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Lamp Lighting & Oath Taking Ceremony of Athena Institute of Health Science, Mangalore- 2026

“Lamp Lighting & Oath Taking Ceremony” held as a tribute to Florence Nightingale, is an auspicious occasion in every nurse’s life. The budding nurse’s, adorned in their uniforms for the first time, formally marks the students entry into the nursing profession.

 “Lamp Lighting & Oath Taking Ceremony” for 23rd batch of GNM and 22nd batch of B.Sc nursing students of Athena Institute of Health Science was held on 10th January 2026 in Athena College Auditorium.

The programme began with a graceful procession, setting a dignified tone for the event. This followed by prayer song led by 2nd semester students, invoking divine blessings for the students as they embark on their professional journey.

The ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of Chief Guest Sr Nancy Priya Mathias, Chief Nursing Officer, Father Muller Medical College Hospital,

Dr Ashith Shettian, Managing Trustee, Dr,Nishitha Shettian Secretary, Prof Sr. Deepa Peter Principal, Athena College of Nursing, Dr. Nandini M, Principal of Athena Institute of Allied Health Sciences, Prof Sunitha Lobo Vice Principal, Mrs. Genevive Serrao, HOD of Nursing Foundation department and the coordinators of respective batch shared the dais.

Mrs. Lora Pais delivered the welcome address, followed by the dignitaries lighted the traditional lamp and inaugurated the programme. As a sign of honor and respect to the pioneer of nursing profession, the dignitaries paid a floral tribute to Ms. Florence Nightingale and  the founder of the institution late Mr. R S Shettian.

Prof Sunitha Lobo, Vice Principal elaborated on the significance of the day, emphasizing the ideals of service, discipline, compassion, and professional integrity that define the nursing vocation.

A poignant moment of the ceremony was the lighting of the lamps by the students, led by the dignitaries and faculty lit the lamps of 140 novice nursing students which symbolize wisdom, knowledge and compassion towards mankind, followed by recitation of oath, where students pledge themselves to uphold the duties of a professional nurse administered by Prof Sr. Deepa Peter Principal, marked a defining moment to uphold ethical standards, human dignity, and commitment to patient care. The atmosphere was further enriched by a song of dedication, reflecting the students’ readiness to serve humanity with devotion.

Addressing the gathering, Sr. Nancy Priya Mathias inspired the students by highlighting the vital role of nurses in the health care system and encouraged them to uphold professionalism, empathy, and lifelong learning. She also encouraged the students by explaining that the lamp lit during ceremony is not an ordinary fire, but a symbol of an inner glow that illuminates and guides nurses in their duty. She adds that this light comforts the suffering, strengthens helping hands during deep distress, and inspires students to uphold the noble values of the nursing profession.

The Presidential Address was delivered by Dr. Ashith Shettian , the Managing Trustee, highlighted on reiterating the institution’s vision of excellence in nursing education. He also adds on by encouraging the students, to serve humanity with commitment, integrity and empathy and the lighting the lamp symbolizing the victory of knowledge over ignorance, service over self and compassion over interface.

The Programme also featured a short film, showcasing the talents of the students and commitment to the nursing profession. The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Mrs Priya Carnelio The program was compered by faculty members  Ms. Jeniva and Ms. Aleena Binu.
The programme concluded with the college anthem followed by refreshments and PTA meeting.