Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, Zimpapers Reporter
OFFICIALS from St Theresa Hospital, located in the Charandura area of Chirumhanzu District in the Midlands Province, have been commended for overcoming a major setback following a devastating fire in February last year and successfully training over 200 nurses.
The blaze, which broke out on 10 February 2024, destroyed part of the hospital’s administrative offices, causing extensive and irreparable damage. The fire affected infrastructure including offices, furniture, laptops and other essential learning resources.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of 203 nurses held at the institution last Friday, Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr Sleiman Kwidini, said the fire had severely disrupted operations at the hospital.
“However, St Theresa managed to maintain a 100 percent pass rate. My heartfelt gratitude goes to all who contributed — both in cash and kind — to ensure the smooth continuation of the school’s operations.
“As we gather today, to witness this graduation, let us take a moment to applaud the nurses, tutors, parents, guardians and everyone who made this day possible. It has not been an easy journey. You have come a long way, made new friends, learnt new skills and grown as individuals. You faced many challenges, which I am sure you overcame together. You have learnt to persevere, and that is why you are here today. Congratulations,” added the Deputy Minister.
Deputy Minister Kwidini said the graduation ceremony marked the culmination of years of hard work, sleepless nights, practical examinations, and unwavering dedication. He noted that the graduating class had walked a path that demanded not only knowledge and skill, but also compassion, resilience and heart.
“Nursing is not just a profession; it is a calling. It requires you to care when it’s difficult, to comfort when words fail, and to show strength when others cannot. You will often be the first face patients see when they are at their most vulnerable, and the last hand they hold when they need courage,” he said.
The Minister urged the graduates to hold onto the lessons and experiences they had gained, saying these would shape their approach to the healthcare profession.
“I encourage each and every one of you to remember the lessons you have learnt and the experiences you have had. These will undoubtedly shape who you are and how you will approach the health sector as a whole,” he said.
Deputy Minister Kwidini emphasised that graduation was not the end, but the beginning of a new chapter in nursing.
“The world you are entering as nurses is constantly evolving — new diseases, new technologies, new challenges. Stay curious, keep learning, and let every patient teach you something. Let every experience, even the difficult ones, shape you into the nurse you aspire to be,” he said.
He also praised the teaching staff at St Theresa for not only imparting knowledge but also instilling the values of professionalism, care and integrity in their students. The Deputy Minister reminded the new nurses that they now possess a unique perspective and a deeper understanding of the value of life.
“Use this perspective as both a gift and a calling. Lead with your heart, not just your mind. Carry the lessons and values of your education into your practice. Maintain your zeal, continue to uplift yourselves with confidence and hope and stay abreast of the ever-evolving medical landscape.
“Embody the spirit of innovation and seek creative solutions to entrenched challenges in the health sector. Be leaders, advocates and resilient professionals who are ready to make a positive impact on patients’ lives. Make a difference and remain passionate and strong, even in the face of adversity,” said the Deputy Minister.
