The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) College of Nursing Sciences in the Gwagwalada area council has matriculated 338 new students for the 2023/2024 academic session.
The students enrolled in various faculties within the institution as part of efforts to build capacity and enhance the nursing profession.
The mandate secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), Dr Dedolapo Fasawe, during its 3rd matriculation ceremony in Abuja yesterday, stressed the FCT administration’s unwavering commitment to delivering President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Mandate’ under the leadership of FCT minister, Nyesom Wike.
Fasawe said that this commitment is reflected in the significant progress seen across various sectors in the FCT and that actions speak louder than words, as evidenced by the increased number of students admitted into the college.
“Last year, the school matriculated 100 students, but this year, 338 students have been admitted and successfully matriculated today, showcasing growth in capacity and infrastructure with more achievements on the horizon,” she said.
She also said that the support from the FCT administration has facilitated improvements in the college’s structure and accommodation, creating a more conducive learning environment. These enhancements are key factors behind the higher admission numbers this year compared to previous years.
The mandate secretary assured that the FCT administration would continue to set the pace for others to follow, urging the students to make the most of the opportunity, not only by learning the skills of healthcare but also by cultivating a mindset of compassion, understanding, and providing hope to patients, that these qualities are what make the nursing profession special.
Earlier, the acting director of Nursing Services, FCT-HSES, Mrs Florence Doghudje, explained that the 338 students include 112 in Basic Nursing (Set 48), 128 Pioneer National Diploma students, and 98 in Basic Midwifery (Set 2024).
“These students successfully passed both the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and the Post-UTME (Computer-Based Test) organised by the college,” she said.
Doghudje said the college boasts proficient and dedicated lecturers committed to excellence in teaching, research, and service to humanity. The institution has zero tolerance for unethical behaviour.
She urged them that as ambassadors of the college, they should embody humility and perseverance, qualities that will help them overcome academic and professional challenges.
Also, the principal/head of the Department of Nursing of the College, Dr Deborah Yusuf, reiterated the institution’s commitment to providing students with the best teaching resources, practical exposure, and training methods that align with global standards.
She encouraged students to be diligent, dedicated, and committed to their studies to achieve their goals.
The chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, FCT chapter, Mr Jama Medan, while delivering his goodwill message, assured the students that their welfare and conducive learning environment would always be prioritised.
He also appreciated the FCT administration’s positive changes in the FCT health sector and pledged the association’s support to improve the system further.
