Blessings Chidakwa-Herald Reporter
MORE than 200 nurses graduated at Parirenyatwa Nursing School in Harare yesterday, with Health Ambassador, First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, hailing nurses as the lifeblood of Zimbabwe’s healthcare system and the embodiment of compassion, courage, and service.
A total of 247 dedicated individuals completed their training in various nursing specialties, including registered general nursing, midwifery, ophthalmic nursing, community nursing, anaesthetic nursing, and oncology.
Among the graduates were nationals from neighbouring Botswana and Eswatini.
The ceremony began with the Health and Child Care Ambassador leading an orderly procession, followed by the traditional lamp lighting a symbol of guidance, hope, knowledge, compassion, and the enduring spirit of service in nursing.
Dr Mnangagwa also presented certificates and trophies to nurses who distinguished themselves in their respective fields.
Health and Child Care Ambassador, First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, hands over a certificate to Botswana graduate Ikaneng Thato, who attained a Nurse Anaesthetist Diploma during the graduation ceremony for Parirenyatwa School of Nursing yesterday. — Pictures: Edward Zvemisha.
In her address, the First Lady said nursing is not just a job but a calling and a covenant with humanity. Dr Mnangagwa said the occasion marked not only an academic achievement but also a national celebration of dedication and humanity.
“Today, we are not just celebrating certificates; we are celebrating commitment, courage, and compassion,” she said. “You are stepping into one of the most selfless professions in the world.”
The First Lady praised nurses as the backbone of hospitals and clinics, noting that they are often the first to welcome patients and the last to say goodbye.
“Nurses are the lifeblood of our healthcare system. Their hands heal, their voices comfort, and their hearts restore hope,” she said.
“Every safe delivery, every recovered patient, every life saved these are your silent victories.”
Dr Mnangagwa said Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals holds a special place in her heart, having witnessed first-hand the compassion and professionalism of its staff.
The First Lady described the institution as the heartbeat of the nation’s medical services and a symbol of excellence for both Zimbabwe and the region.
“Parirenyatwa is truly a national treasure and a regional centre of excellence,” she said.
“Its reputation extends beyond Zimbabwe’s borders, attracting students from countries such as Botswana and Eswatini.”
The Health and Child Care Ambassador urged graduates to carry forward the spirit of service and compassion that defines the nursing profession.
“Through your hands, healing flows. Through your voices, comfort is found. And through your hearts, humanity feels loved and valued,” she said.
“Nursing is not just a job it is a covenant with humanity.”
Dr Mnangagwa also called on nurses to remain the bridge between science and compassion.
“Be the hand that heals. Be the voice that calms. Be the heart that listens,” she said.
Family and friends congratulate Thelma Theodolah Mpinda, who was awarded the Gold Medal for first position in the August 2024 Midwifery State Final Examination during the graduation ceremony at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals in Harare.
“You are not just caregivers, you are the lifeblood of a nation that depends on your strength, your compassion, and your courage.”
Dr Mnangagwa commended the school’s tutors, clinical instructors, and leadership for shaping generations of health professionals whose work continues to strengthen the nation’s hospitals.
“To our tutors and mentors, you have not only taught skills but instilled the values that sustain this noble profession. Honai nhasi maruva enyu,” she said.
Through her Angel of Hope Foundation, the First Lady said she has worked closely with Parirenyatwa to support health programmes, including providing accommodation in Avondale for cancer patients receiving treatment at the hospital.
The Foundation has also mobilised food, hospital beds, blankets, and postnatal starter packs for mothers and newborns.
“These are not acts of charity but acts of love,” she said.
“When Parirenyatwa thrives, Zimbabwe’s entire healthcare system grows stronger.”
Dr Mnangagwa acknowledged partnerships with international and regional organisations such as the Merck Foundation, UNICEF, UNFPA, WHO, and Island Hospice, saying their collaboration is key to building a resilient health system.
“As Health Ambassador, I have travelled across the country and met nurses who work long hours in difficult conditions but still greet patients with kindness and dignity,” she said.
“They are the quiet heroes who give life to our hospitals.”
Some of the student nurses, graduates, and families follow proceedings during the graduation ceremony for nurses and midwives at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals yesterday.
Health and Child Care Minister, Dr Douglas Mombeshora, said Government remains committed to investing in nursing education, training, and infrastructure to build a resilient, motivated, and well-staffed health workforce.
“As we celebrate today’s achievements, we are reminded that learning in nursing never truly ends. The health sector is dynamic with new technologies, new diseases, and new expectations require constant adaptation and innovation,” he said.
“To our graduates, I say: wear your uniforms with pride, serve with integrity, and carry the torch of hard work and healing wherever you go.”
Dr Mombeshora said the country now has 29 general nursing training schools, including 18 primary care schools and two midwifery schools, with two new institutions opened this year in Gokwe North for registered general nurses and Tshelanyemba for primary care nurses.
The Minister said they have embraced digital innovation through the Impilo e-learning platform, which allows students to access interactive, up-to-date learning materials from anywhere in the country, even in the most remote areas.
Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals Chief Medical Officer Dr Tsitsi Mildred Magure said the School of Nursing is actively embracing digital transformation in line with the Ministry’s goal of expanding capacity and modernising education.
“We envision a future where nursing education integrates digital platforms, breaking the barriers of traditional brick-and-mortar classrooms,” she said.
“This will allow for increased student participation through hybrid learning modules, access to specialised training for nurses in remote districts, and enhanced collaboration with partner institutions across Zimbabwe and the SADC region.”
Dr Magure said the introduction of specialised classrooms, simulation-based training, and digital learning tools will position Zimbabwe among the world’s best in nursing education.
She reaffirmed the school’s commitment to producing skilled, compassionate, and innovative nurses while supporting the ministry’s goal to double the health workforce by 2030.
Ministry of Health and Child Care Acting Permanent Secretary Dr Stephen Banda said the achievements celebrated reflect alignment with the National Health Strategy.
“The achievement celebrated today reflects not only institutional excellence but also alignment with our National Health Strategy 2021–2025, which prioritises human resources for health, digital transformation, and improved maternal and child health outcomes,” he said.
“We are especially honoured by the presence and heartfelt words of Her Excellency, the First Lady, whose unwavering commitment to health equity and the empowerment of frontline health workers continues to inspire our national health agenda.”
The graduating nurses also shared their joy and reflections.
The Parirenyatwa School of Nursing choir sings a song of praise for Health and Child Care Ambassador, First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, in recognition of her efforts during the graduation ceremony in Harare yesterday.
Five-time award recipient Thelma Mpinda expressed gratitude for the recognition of her hard work.
“I am overjoyed to have received five awards. It’s a true honour and a reminder that hard work pays off. Health education is the foundation of a strong nation, and I’m grateful to be part of a system that values learning and excellence,” she said.
Botswana national Thato Adrian Ikaneng said Zimbabwe’s progress in health training continues to inspire her.
“My inspiration comes from seeing how much Zimbabwe has achieved in the health sector. The training structures and mentorship here are exceptional. I am grateful for the support and proud to represent a profession that saves lives every day,” she said.
A graduating nurse, Donaldson Mawoyo urged fellow nurses to uphold the core values of their profession.
“As we celebrate today, let us remember the values that make nursing a calling for dedication, compassion, and empathy.
“I am thankful for the opportunity to serve and for the support that strengthens our healthcare system. Zimbabwe needs us now more than ever,” he said.
Another graduate Rejoice Mundezha highlighted professionalism and appreciation for national leadership support in the nursing field.
“We were taught to be professional nurses who uphold excellence in everything we do. We are deeply grateful to the President since his visit at Parirenyatwa, our working conditions have improved, motivating us to deliver quality care. The same goes for our First Lady, who remains a pillar of strength,” she said.
One of the graduates, Leon Nyamatamga reflected on the challenges and pride of achievement.
“I am filled with joy. The journey was not easy, many sleepless nights but today we stand tall. We will continue to serve with dedication and save lives with pride,” he said.
Another graduate, Ngaatendwe, commended the Government’s ongoing efforts to uplift the nursing profession.
“I’m truly happy with the progress in the health sector. The Government’s efforts to uplift our profession are visible, and I am thankful to be part of this new generation of nurses ready to serve with passion,” he said.
The commitment of these nurses marks a hopeful future for Zimbabwe’s health sector, where dedication, skill, and compassion drive every step towards better care for all.
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