.Regina Caeli College of Nursing Sciences, Awka, has officially commenced full academic activities with the matriculation of 115 pioneer students who will undergo training leading to the award of National Diploma certificates.
Declaring the institution open during a Holy Mass held as part of the matriculation ceremony, the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev Paulinus Ezeokafor, said considerable efforts were made to secure accreditation for the college. He expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to making the institution a reality.
The Coordinating Provost of the college, Mrs. Mary-Michael Ezenwuba, urged the newly admitted students to make the most of the opportunity provided by their parents, guardians and sponsors. She appealed for additional infrastructure, including a new hostel block, an electronic mannequin for practical training, more library books and about 300 standard classroom seats to support the institution’s continued growth.
Mrs. Ezenwuba also commended Bishop Ezeokafor, the proprietor of the college, and other stakeholders for their commitment to expanding access to quality nursing education through the establishment of the institution.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of Anaocha Local Government Area, Hon. Rome Ibekwe, praised the Awka Catholic Diocese for establishing the college, noting that it would complement government efforts to strengthen the healthcare sector.
Representing the APGA Anambra Central Senatorial candidate, Chief Dozie Nwankwo, he encouraged the students to embrace the “think-home” philosophy by contributing to the development of their communities.
Chairman of the occasion, Barrister Anthony Agbasiere, advised the students to remain focused on their studies and, where possible, contribute their skills to society, while encouraging them to seek environments where their contributions would be appreciated.
Speaking on behalf of the matriculating students, Odinaka Nnazoba and Mmesoma Ugochukwu thanked God for the opportunity to study nursing at the institution and pledged to uphold excellence in both character and learning.
Highlights of the ceremony included the presentation of awards to students who distinguished themselves in academics and character, the administration of the oath of allegiance to the matriculating students, the launch of the college hostel project, and a paper presentation titled “Building Future Nurses with Compassion and Integrity” delivered by Associate Professor Henrietta Okedo of the Nursing Department, Peter University, Achina/Onneh.
