VICTORIA, Seychelles (CHATNEWSTV) — President Wavel Ramkalawan on Sunday paid glowing tribute to Seychelles’ nurses, calling them the “bedrock” of the island nation’s health system and urging continued investment in their training and advancement.
In a statement marking International Nurses Day, the president lauded the dedication and compassion shown by hundreds of Seychellois and foreign nurses—active and retired—across the country’s public and private sectors.
“You continue to be the bedrock of our healthcare system,” Ramkalawan said. “Ensuring that every Seychellois receives care marked by skill, empathy, and unwavering commitment.”
The president extended special recognition to midwives and male nurses, commending their often dual roles and impact on families. “Your dual commitment exemplifies the heart of nursing and midwifery,” he said, while adding that male nurses “challenge stereotypes and enrich the nursing profession.”
Ramkalawan noted the “tireless efforts” of nurses working in hospitals, health centres, research offices, and care homes, often under demanding conditions. “Working long hours and navigating significant challenges, you consistently place your patients’ needs at the forefront,” he said.
He also acknowledged the role of nurses in the private sector, noting that their care “stems from a genuine desire to improve the health and happiness of individuals and families,” not just financial incentives.
Calling for greater collaboration across the healthcare system, the president urged all stakeholders—including doctors, support staff, and administrators—to “place patients at the centre of our efforts” and build a culture of teamwork and mutual respect.
Looking ahead, Ramkalawan appealed to the National Institute of Health and Social Studies and the University of Seychelles to partner in developing “innovative training programmes” to better equip nurses for future challenges. He said the upcoming construction of the new Seychelles Hospital would offer “exciting prospects” and opportunities for professional growth.
“My government is committed to supporting the growth and advancement of the nursing profession,” Ramkalawan said. “We are dedicated to creating pathways for further training and career progression, including opportunities for nurses to become practitioners of advanced nursing.”
Invoking the legacy of Florence Nightingale and pioneering Seychellois nurses, Ramkalawan concluded: “Let their legacy of care and commitment serve as your guiding light.”
International Nurses Day is celebrated globally each year on May 12, the birthday of Nightingale, regarded as the founder of modern nursing.
Editor: Gabriel Ani
