The Provost of Peaceland College of Nursing Sciences, Enugu, Dr Helen Onyia, has urged new students to resist temptation from worldly desires and focus on their studies.
She advised them to work hard, stay focused, seek help when needed, and uphold the values that led them to pursue nursing.
Onyia gave this advice during the college’s first Matriculation and Capping held on Friday at the institution’s premises in Enugu.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 101 students were matriculated, marking the first cohort of the institution.
She warned that the more students desire what lies beyond their reach, the more they risk being distracted from their goals.
She reminded the students that their commitment was not only to education but to a future in nursing, a noble and disciplined profession.
“I don’t intend to discourage curious students or parents, but to emphasise that life is sacred and requires responsibility,” Onyia said.
She added that nursing has grown more flexible and rewarding due to the increasing complexity of healthcare delivery.
“Nurses now serve in expanded roles – as clinical specialists, practitioners, consultants and even independent prescribers,” she noted.
She said the college’s goal is to train competent nurses who can deliver quality care and lead in advancing healthcare.
Onyia stressed that with the global shortage of nurses, numerous opportunities exist for those ready to work diligently.
The provost stated that the college offers a two-year National Diploma and a two-year Higher National Diploma in Nursing.
She noted that the programme aligns with national reforms in nursing education currently underway in Nigeria.
The school also follows the approved curricula of the National Board for Technical Education and the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.
“Becoming a professional nurse symbolises what is possible when core principles and ethics are truly applied,” Onyia added.
She described the college’s establishment as timely and urged students to build on love, dedication, and self-confidence.
HND student, Constance Okonkwo, thanked God and the college for the opportunity to matriculate.
“I’m truly happy. Nursing is tough, but with our dedicated lecturers, I believe we’ll succeed,” she said.
She praised the institution’s progress and promised to give her best over the four-year programme to become a registered nurse.