Indian Cultural Centre (ICC) Qatar observed International Nurses Day 2021 in recognition of the important role of nurses as well as of health and safety.
This special day, marked on May 12 every year around the world, commemorates the birth of Florence Nightingale, social reformer, statistician and the founder of modern nursing.
The theme for International Nurse Day 2021 is ‘A Voice to Lead - A Vision for Future Healthcare’.
"The Covid-19 pandemic has shown the importance of healthcare and investments in healthcare. In addition, it has proved that if healthcare was not robust, all other sectors would suffer," the ICC said in a statement.
Indian ambassador Dr Deepak Mittal, chief guest at the ICC International Nurses Day celebration, addressed the virtual event. He appreciated nurses "for their relentless dedication not just during the pandemic but also making themselves available at the forefront for generations". He also acknowledged the support provided by the Ministry of Public Health during the pandemic to Qatar's citizens as well as residents.
Dr Mohan Thomas, president of the Indian Sports Centre, delivered the keynote address to highlight the significance of the day while also expressing gratitude towards nurses.
Mariam Nooh al-Mutawa, guest of honour at the event and acting deputy chief nursing officer at Hamad Medical Corporation, supported the event and appreciated Indian nurses in Qatar for their solidarity towards the healthcare industry as a team.
She concluded her statement by saying, ‘Save one life, you are a hero; save 100 lives you are a nurse".
The event started with a welcome note by Sudhir R Gupta, joint secretary of the ICC.
ICC president P N Baburaj presided over the meeting by sharing his views and stressing the support for frontline heroes from the healthcare sector as they continued to provide selfless care, especially during the pandemic.
Azim Abbas, president of the Indian Business and Professionals Council, and Dr Joel J Mathew, president of Indian Doctors Club, addressed the gathering and supported the event.
Nursing associations such as the Federation of Indian Nurses, Qatar (FINQ) and United Nurses of India, Qatar (UNIQ) also contributed towards the success of the event. Bijoy Chacko, president of FINQ, and Mini Siby, president of UNIQ, expressed gratitude for nurses and supported the event.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Anish George Mathew, ICC Managing Committee member. Elizabeth Varghese anchored the event.
Cultural programmes, short films and video presentations, highlighting the skills and talent of healthcare professionals as well as support from their family, were also part of the event.    
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