By Julius Mugaga Tukacungurwa, Umoja Standard.
Jinja City, Uganda: Ms. Hellen Seku , the Commissioner State House National Secretariat for Patriotism Corp and Private Secretary to the President in Charge of Youth Affairs has urged nurses to prioritize their patients’ welfare and avoid strikes, warning that such actions could have serious consequences for patients and the reputation of the nursing profession.
Addressing 433 patriot nurse students at Jinja School of Nursing and Midwifery, Commissioner Hellen Seku stressed the importance of patriotism and professionalism in the nursing profession. “Patriotism is not optional. We are all supposed to be patriotic.” Seku said
Seku warned the nurses against engaging in strikes, which she said could have serious consequences for patients. “How can a nurse strike?” she asked. “You people, you say you treat and God heals.., Your anthem says you have been chosen, chosen to be nurses, to love and serve. How can God’s chosen people strike,” she wondered.
The commissioner also observed the importance of maintaining a professional image and avoiding unprofessional conduct. “We don’t want to find nurses who put on skimpy skirts or wear excessive makeup. Be yourself, be natural.” She appealed.
Seku encouraged the nurses to be hardworking and dedicated to their profession, citing the example of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. “Why would nurses fail to treat people because of salary and then you leave masses to die?” she asked.
The commissioner also warned the nurses against ideological disorientation, which she said was a major challenge facing the youth today. “Get out of the cage of tribal sentiments and think about Ugandans,” she said.
Seku urged the nurses to be patriotic and to serve the country with dedication and hard work. “We don’t have any other Uganda,” she said. “We have to love this country, serve this country, and be patriotic enough.”
She urged them to keep a positive attitude towards work and to alleviate suffering from patients. “I therefore look forward to receiving good reports about you and I don’t want to ever hear a report that Jinja Nursing has striked.” she said.
