Belinda Kulatau
Kavango East governor Hamunyera Hambyuka has urged newly qualified nurses to honour their professional oath by delivering healthcare services with integrity and compassion.
Hambyuka made the remarks while delivering the keynote address at Alba Chipamba University’s fourth graduation ceremony, held at the Rundu Trade Fair Centre recently.
A total of 374 students from the university’s three campuses — Rundu, Oshikango, and Walvis Bay — graduated with certificates as enrolled nurses.
The governor encouraged the graduates to uphold the ethical code of nursing as they enter the workforce. “You chose nursing because you are passionate about caring for others, and because you believe every person deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and kindness. Please remember that when you start working in clinics and hospitals,” said Hambyuka.
He added that Namibia is working towards universal health coverage, where comprehensive care is accessible at all levels of the healthcare system. In this regard, nursing programmes such as the one offered at Alba Chipamba University play a vital role in ensuring the country’s healthcare system is adequate.
Hambyuka further emphasised that nurses and midwives are essential to improving health outcomes and contribute significantly to the country’s broader economic development. “Therefore, investing in them is imperative to achieve an efficient, effective, resilient, and sustainable healthcare system,” he said.
Graduate Sendrakke Tjikuwa said while he is among the unemployed youth, he remains eager to serve his community when the opportunity arises. “I have learnt a lot, especially through practical training, so I’m happy to be graduating. I look forward to serving my community and continuing to make my parents proud,” he said.
Another graduate, Bernhard Kandyendye, added: “I look forward to positively contributing to the enhancement of our country’s healthcare system. Being a nurse is a calling — I have answered my calling and I’m ready to serve my people.”
*Belinda Kulatau is an Information Officer at the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, Kavango East region.