In a vibrant dual celebration held at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) this month, nurses were recognised as vital agents of change in both healthcare and economic development. The event marked International Nurses Day 2025 and the formal inauguration of five new members into the university’s newly established Alpha Beta Beta Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honour Society of Nursing (Sigma).
Under the theme “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies”, the occasion united students, lecturers, and healthcare professionals in honouring the legacy, resilience, and future leadership of the nursing profession. “This isn’t just a celebration,” said Ntsoaki Tshabalala, Lecturer for the Postgraduate Diploma in Health Services Management (PGDip HSM). “It’s a call to action. It affirms that our nursing students are not only caregivers, but future leaders, researchers, and advocates.”
Organised entirely by PGDip HSM students, the event blended commemoration with empowerment. Highlights included a lamp-lighting ceremony, the Nursing Pledge, and the inauguration of Sigma members, underscoring a strong commitment to ethical practice, global collaboration, and academic excellence. “International Nurses Day honours the legacy of nursing—its compassion, resilience, and enduring values,” Tshabalala added. “The simultaneous inauguration of Sigma Alpha Beta Beta Chapter introduces a forward-looking vision: global networking, research collaboration, and leadership development.”
The keynote address by Dr Kobe Marais, a prominent advocate for nurse leadership, delivered a powerful reminder of the broader socio-economic impact of nursing. “Nurses are not just healthcare workers—they’re economic drivers,” Dr Marais stated. “By caring for nurses, we build stronger health systems and healthier communities. Are you the nurse you would want to care for your grandparents? If not, what must change?”
The inauguration of Sigma members stood out as a historic moment. Dr Andile Mokoena-de Beer, a seasoned mental health nursing lecturer, said: “Being inaugurated into the Alpha Beta Beta Chapter of Sigma on International Nurses Day creates a profound sense of connection to the global nursing community. It highlights our responsibility to uphold Florence Nightingale’s legacy of compassionate, evidence-based care.”
Her sentiments were echoed by fellow inductees Dr Nkensani Florence Mabunda, who emphasised health equity, and Dr Sophy Mogatlogedi Moloko, who underscored mentorship and research-driven healthcare access. “Through Sigma, I hope to learn from other nurses globally and bring those insights into improving community healthcare,” added Tumisho Mokwele, Clinical Facilitator.
Prof Deliwe Phetlhu, who presented certificates to the new Sigma members, praised the transformative power of international recognition: “Being a Sigma member isn’t just a badge—it’s a passport to global citizenship in nursing. It connects our lecturers and students to grants, research, and leadership training that drives excellence.”
Students also shared their reflections. Thobile Skhosana, a PGDip HSM student, described nursing as “a caring profession,” explaining: “Nurses not only address physical needs, but also emotional, psychological, social, and spiritual well-being.” Matodzi Mudau, another student, referred to nursing as “a calling,” stating: “It gives me fulfilment to know that my skills and compassion can bring comfort and hope. Nursing is more than just a profession—it is my life mission.”
The event also featured strong support from sponsors, including SureX Insurance, DENOSA, and Mbuso Medical Supplies. The celebration concluded with a strong sense of unity, pride, and purpose. Tshabalala summed it up poignantly: “The future of nursing lies in their hands—and with support structures like Sigma, they are well-equipped to lead that future.”
At its core, the event was not just ceremonial—it was visionary. It reaffirmed nurses’ indispensable role in global healthcare, celebrating them not only as healers but as leaders shaping the future of health systems and society.
By Tumelo Moila
