International Nurses Day was observed in Cox’s Bazar on Tuesday with due dignity and daylong programs under the theme “Our Nurses, Our Future: Caring for Nurses Strengthens Economies”.
The programmes were organised by the Bangladesh Nurses Association, Cox’s Bazar district unit.
A procession was brought out from the District Sadar Hospital in the morning and ended at the Public Library ground.
Superintendent of the 250-bed District Sadar Hospital Dr Mong Ting Nyo inaugurated the daylong activities.
Later, a discussion meeting and cultural programme were held at the Public Library hallroom.
Senior Staff Nurse of Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital Sebika Acharya drew attention with a symbolic appearance inspired by Florence Nightingale, carrying a traditional hurricane lantern.
She said Florence Nightingale was not only a nurse but also an enduring symbol of humanitarian service, whose ideals continue to inspire nurses worldwide.
The discussion meeting was attended by Principal of Cox’s Bazar Medical College Professor Dr Md Sohel Baks as the chief guest.
In his speech, he said nurses play a crucial role in ensuring healthcare services, particularly in a tourist district like Cox’s Bazar and in the Rohingya refugee camps where emergency medical support remains essential.
He also stressed the need to expand facilities and support for nurses.
Acting Nursing Superintendent of Cox’s Bazar Sadar Hospital and president of the Bangladesh Nurses Association Cox’s Bazar district unit Chhabi Chakrabarty said nurses in the district were facing various difficulties due to accommodation shortages.
She demanded the quick construction of government quarters and dormitories for nurses.
The programme was chaired by Chhabi Chakrabarty and moderated by the organisation’s general secretary Amit Halder.
Among others who spoke were senior staff nurse and nutritionist Syed Ahmad Tansir Uddin and joint general secretary of BNA Cox’s Bazar Salah Uddin.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdu Rashid Manik
