Esda Nursing Education Institution’s Class of 2025 was celebrated in a proud graduation ceremony marking the completion of their training and the start of their professional journey in healthcare, with 30 graduates officially turning their tassels and receiving recognition for academic excellence, resilience, and service.

The milestone event also highlighted the institution’s strong clinical partnerships, including Heidelberg Hospital, which played a key role in shaping the practical training and experience of the graduates.

Principal Yolanda Els delivered a touching speech during the ceremony, highlighting her pride in the class of 2025.

“Today marks the reward for your hard work, resilience, and commitment. You all look absolutely beautiful. This is a day that will remain engraved in your hearts, as well as in the hearts of your families and everyone who supported you along the way,” she said.

She said the institution’s vision is to see nursing as more than just a profession but as a calling.

“Nurses carry a great responsibility and have a profound impact on the lives of others as we work alongside the great Healer, our Lord Jesus Christ.

This calling demands compassion, skill, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of those we serve. It calls us not only to develop competent and professional nurses, but to nurture individuals who grow spiritually and personally, reflecting the Lord’s character in all they do,” Els said.

She expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the training of the 30 learners – management, ward staff, and healthcare workers from the Gauteng Department of Health, Heidelberg Provincial Hospital, Ekurhuleni Community Centres, and Rus ‘n Bietjie Home for the Elderly.

“Thank you for your invaluable role in shaping these graduates. We also appreciate our additional clinical partners: Epilepsy SA, Springs Retirement Village, and Frank Mynhardt Centre,” she said.

In addition, she welcomed and thanked Matron Portia Madoyi from Benoni Day Hospital as well as the academic staff.

“Barbara Dimati, Marise Janse van Vuuren, and Riekie Wentzel – thank you for your passion and commitment.

“A special thank you to Mrs Maria Khuboni, our external moderator, for ensuring our high academic standards. Our support staff play a vital role in the smooth running of our institution. Thank you to Erna Horgan, Michelle de Villiers, and Ellen Mabete for your continued dedication,” Els said.

Addressing the graduates, she applauded them for the milestone.

“This is an important milestone and a day of great joy. But it was not always easy. There were long study hours, sacrifices, cups of coffee and perhaps a few unhealthy energy drinks, two-minute noodles, and moments of doubt.

“But there was also laughter, growth, and resilience. Through it all, you persevered. We are incredibly proud of you,” she said warmly.

Since the introduction of the Higher Certificate in 2021, the institution has maintained a 100 per cent pass rate, and this group has continued that legacy.

Fifteen graduates achieved distinctions in theory, and nineteen in clinical practice.

“As you step forward to receive your certificate, remember this is not the finish line – it is a key that opens new doors. Use it with purpose, integrity, and courage.

“The world needs your skills and your character. Go confidently into your future, and make a difference wherever you go,” she concluded.

Students who achieved special awards are:

• Most dependable student – Sindiswa Booi,

• Top student clinical practice – Nonkululeko Mogapi

• Most caring student – Tracey van Moekerken

• Top student theory – Zoë Potgieter

• Top student theory and clinical and for perseverance – Thando Thobela

• Most improved student – Dipua Mashabela