Bangladesh: Divine Mercy Hospital and Nursing Institute Celebrate International Nurses Day

International Nurses Day was celebrated with enthusiasm at Divine Mercy Hospital Ltd., and Nursing Institute, located in Gazipur District on the outskirts of Dhaka in central Bangladesh, on May 12, honoring the compassion, sacrifice, and humanitarian service of nurses.

This year’s global theme, “Our Nurses, Our Future,” resonated strongly with participants, underscoring the importance of investing in and supporting the nursing profession.

Among the distinguished guests were Cardinal Patrick D’Rozario, Archbishop Emeritus of Dhaka; Michael John Gomes, president of Dhaka Credit and chairman of the hospital; Secretary Monju Maria Palma; Fr. Subrata Boniface Tolentino; members of the Dhaka Credit Board and committees; Dhaka Credit CEO Jonas Gomes; and the hospital’s CEO, Dr. Ahmed Shafiqul Haider, along with doctors, nurses, and staff members.

The celebration began with a solemn candlelight ceremony during which nurses renewed their professional oath, symbolizing their commitment to care and service. The program also featured a colorful rally, a floral tribute to Florence Nightingale, discussions on the significance of Nurses Day and the evolving role of nursing, and a vibrant cultural performance by students.

Addressing the gathering, Michael John Gomes described nursing as “a sacred and noble profession,” saying nurses embody compassion and selflessness through their dedication to serving others.

In his remarks, Cardinal D’Rozario reflected on the historical roots of nursing, noting that while the profession was once closely associated with Christian communities, it has evolved into a universal vocation that transcends social, cultural, and religious boundaries.

Speakers also highlighted the changing perception of nursing in Bangladeshi society. They observed that although the profession once faced social stigma, it is now widely respected and valued. Bangladesh, they noted, has progressed from depending on foreign nurses to contributing skilled nursing professionals to the global workforce.

Sharing her personal experience, one nurse expressed pride in her vocation, describing nursing as fundamentally a profession of service. She emphasized that through compassion, care, and dedication, nurses play a vital role in healing patients and bringing hope to families.

The event concluded with a message of encouragement from the guests, who urged students and nurses of the Divine Mercy Nursing Institute to pursue excellence and become role models both nationally and internationally.