FCT College Of Nursing Sciences Matriculates 338 Students

By: Badaru Yakasai & Doris Jonah

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) College of Nursing Sciences, Gwagwalada, has matriculated 338 students during its 3rd Matriculation Ceremony for the 2023/2024 academic session.

These students were enrolled in various faculties within the institution, as part of efforts to build capacity and enhance the Nursing profession.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, assured the FCT Administration’s unwavering commitment to delivering President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Mandate’ under the able leadership of FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike.

According to her, this commitment is reflected in the significant progress seen across various sectors in the FCT.

Fasawe remarked that actions are speaking louder than words, as evidenced by the increased number of students admitted into the college.

Her words: “Last year, the school matriculated 100 students, but this year (2024), 338 students have been admitted and successfully matriculated today, showcasing growth in capacity and infrastructure with more achievements on the horizon.”

Fasawe reiterated that the support from the FCT Administration has facilitated improvements in the college’s structure and accommodation; creating a more conducive learning environment.

“These enhancements are key factors behind the higher admission numbers this year, compared to previous years, she added.

The Mandate Secretary further assured that the FCT Administration will continue to set the pace for others states of the federation to follow.

Fasawe urged the students to make the most of this opportunity, not only by learning the skills of healthcare but also by cultivating a mindset of compassion, understanding, and providing hope to patients.

She emphasized that these qualities are what make the nursing profession special.

In a similar vein, the Acting Director of Nursing Services, FCT-HSES, Mrs. Florence Doghudje, noted that the 338 students include 112 in Basic Nursing (Set 48), 128 Pioneer National Diploma students, and 98 in Basic Midwifery (Set 2024).

“These students successfully passed both the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and the Post-UTME (Computer-Based Test) organized by the college,” the Director stressed.

Doghudje stated that the college can boast of proficient and dedicated lecturers committed to excellence in teaching, research, and service to humanity.

She emphasized the institution’s zero tolerance for unethical behavior; noting that the college produces professionals for a noble vocation.

As ambassadors of the college, Doghudje enjoined the students to embody humility and perseverance, qualities that will help them overcome academic and professional challenges.

Earlier in her opening remarks, the Principal / Head of Department Nursing of the College, Dr. Deborah Yusuf, expressed the institution’s commitment to providing students with the best teaching resources, practical exposure, and training methods that align with global standards. She encouraged students to be diligent, dedicated, and committed to their studies to achieve their goals.