Two hundred fifteen sophomore nursing students from the College of Community Health and Allied Medical Science (CCHAMS) celebrated their transition from students to practitioners at the annual pinning ceremony held at the Jose D. Aspiras Hall on March 1, 2023. The ceremony was a momentous occasion for the students and their families as they marked the beginning of their professional careers as health providers.

During the ceremony, the nursing students were donned with caps and given badges.  They also lit their lamps.

The event featured speeches, including one from the keynote speaker, a well-known healthcare professional in the community, Chief Nurse Norberto G. Prepose, Jr., and that of Dr. Fauslyn Gay U. Amongan’s (SLUC Head for Instruction). Dr. Amongan, who represented the University President the Campus Chancellor, underscored the increasing complexity of the roles of nurses as demanded by the needs of today’s healthcare context:

“There can be no doubt that the role of nurses in the country has evolved and changed greatly in recent times. Your duties now extend into many areas which were once the preserve of medical doctors, while the healthcare environments in which you work and make decisions have become an increasingly complex one.”

She encouraged them to continue learning and growing as professionals and to always uphold the values of the nursing profession.

Meanwhile, the students also had the opportunity to thank their family members and instructors for their support and guidance throughout their nursing education during the Tribute to Parents.

Other important parts of the program include their singing of Batch Song (This is my Now), and Candle Light Song (I See the Light).

In his closing remarks, CCHAMS Dean, Dr. Gabriel O. Bacungan expressed his gratitude to the guests as he highlighted the efforts and sacrifices of Prof. Rolando P. Roncal, Jr., the Program Chair for the Nursing Program, and all the CCHAMS Faculty Members and Staff for spearheading the Ceremonies and their efforts and sacrifices from the time of preparation for the ceremonies. He also thanked the PTCA officers, parents, guardians, and students.   

Capping and pinning ceremonies have historically been important rituals in the nursing profession, symbolizing the transition from student to practitioner and the dedication to the values of the nursing profession.

The tradition of capping and pinning ceremonies dates back to the 1800s when nursing was a highly respected profession. Nurses would wear caps and pins as part of their uniforms to symbolize their commitment to the nursing profession. Today, these ceremonies serve as a reminder of the history and traditions of the nursing profession. They also reinforce the professional values of nursing such as compassion, caring, ethics, and responsibility. Nurses are reminded of their commitment to providing quality care to their patients, and the ceremony helps to instill a sense of pride in the profession. Finally, as they are initiated into the profession, they are expected to behave and act as professional nurses, and to uphold the standards and ethics of the nursing profession. (by Ayu)