PRESS RELEASE

9th Mile, Khanapara, Ri-Bhoi - Friday, November 21, 2025: The Regional Institute of Nursing Education (RINE) under the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) hosted its inaugural Florence Nightingale Lamp Lighting and Oath-Taking Ceremony for the first batch of GNM and B.Sc. Nursing students - an occasion steeped in symbolism, tradition, and reverence for the nursing profession.

Held at the Prof. N.K. Chaudhury Auditorium (Block C, USTM), the ceremony marked a defining moment for young nursing aspirants as they stepped into a vocation rooted in compassion and service.

The event commenced with a solemn minute of silence in memory of Assam’s cultural icon, Dr. Zubeen Garg, followed by a divinely serene Vandana rendered by Hricheeta Saikia of BCA (1st Semester).

In a poignant tribute to the founder of modern nursing, the traditional lamp-lighting took place before the portrait of Florence Nightingale. Dr. Kalpana Hazarika, Founder and Principal of RINE, then administered the revered Nightingale Pledge, reaffirming the students’ commitment to the highest standards of ethics and care.

The ceremony was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including: Prof. Amutha V.K., Principal, Army Institute of Nursing - Chief Guest; Prof. G.D. Sharma, Vice Chancellor, USTM; Dr. Jogesh Sarma, Director, PIMC; Prof. R.K. Sharma, Advisor, USTM; faculty members; staff of USTM, and students of RINE all in attendance to witness this historic moment.

Addressing the gathering, Vice Chancellor Prof. G.D. Sharma highlighted the visionary contributions of Florence Nightingale, whose systematic approach revolutionised the practice of nursing across the globe.

Chief Guest Prof. Amutha V.K. reflected on the profound nature of the profession, remarking, “Nursing is not merely a career- it is a calling.” She reminded students that while doctors visit patients periodically, nurses remain by their side around the clock, forming the backbone of the healthcare system.

The ceremony was followed by vibrant cultural performances by the nursing students and a hosted luncheon, adding warmth and camaraderie to the day.

This landmark event reaffirms USTM’s dedication to advancing healthcare education and nurturing compassionate, skilled, and ethically grounded nursing professionals committed to serving society with dignity and devotion.

The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya holds a distinguished position in higher education, ranking as one of the top 200 universities in India as per NIRF 2024 and the only private University from Northeast India to be accredited with an ‘A’ Grade by NAAC at its first inspection, that grew from six to over six thousand students within a short span of fourteen plus years.