The University of Fort Hare (UFH) Faculty of Health Sciences recently hosted its annual Nursing Science Pinning Ceremony.
Steeped in tradition and pride, the occasion marks a symbolic transition for final-year nursing students from classroom learners to professional practitioners.
In her welcoming address, Dean of Health Sciences, Prof Liezel Cilliers, described the pin as more than just a badge. “The pin represents compassion, integrity, service, and resilience. It is a visible reminder of the pledge you make to care for the sick, comfort the suffering, and advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves,” she said.
Prof Cilliers reminded the graduates that they are joining a proud UFH legacy of nurses who are making an impact across South Africa and beyond. She acknowledged the long hours of study, the clinical challenges endured, and the sacrifices made by students and their families. “You are not just entering a profession, you are answering a calling,” she said. Adding that their work also embodies the spirit of Ubuntu: “I am because we are.”
Opportunities Await
The ceremony featured an inspiring keynote speech by Ms. Trischilla Pillay, Regional Education Manager at the East London Learning Centre. Ms. Pillay built her talk around the theme WOW – Words of Wisdom. She encouraged the final-year students to reflect on their transformative journey from acceptance into the nursing programme to the professionals they have become today.
Drawing on the International Nurses Day theme “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for Nurses, Strengthens Economies”, she highlighted the critical role nurses play in strengthening South Africa’s healthcare system and economy. “Wonderful Opportunities Wait. As professional nurses, you are leaders, protectors, and advocates in every field you enter. Set clear goals, lead with empathy, and embrace lifelong learning,” the keynote speaker urged.
Dr Ntombana Rala, Head of Department for Nursing & Public Health, officially handed over the cohort to Mr Mfengu and Mrs Jennings, Nursing Service Managers from Cecilia Makiwane Hospital and Frere Hospital. They accepted the students into the clinical areas.
The Future is Certain
For the students, the ceremony was deeply emotional. Speaking on behalf of the class of 2025, Ms. Tinotenda Gutuza said: “Four years ago, we entered the UFH Nursing Science building full of dreams, and anxious about what the future holds. Now the future is certain.”
Gutuza expressed gratitude to their lecturers, clinical facilitators, and also to each other for the support throughout their journey.
“As the class of 2025, we became family, bound not only by books and uniform but by the shared experiences that will remain with us forever. I leave you with the words of Florence Nightingale: ‘Nursing is an art; it requires exclusive devotion.’ May we continue to honour that art in every patient we touch, every life we encounter, and every community we serve.”
The 2025 cohort enters the health system at a crucial time, ready to contribute to tackling South Africa’s pressing health challenges. With the values of excellence, service, and Ubuntu guiding them, we have no doubt that they are positioned to make a lasting difference.