The Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Faith Mazibuko, joined the global community in commemorating International Nurses Day while reaffirming the Gauteng Department of Health’s commitment to strengthening the public healthcare workforce through continued investment in nursing education and training.

Observed annually on 12 May, International Nurses Day recognises the vital contribution nurses make towards improving healthcare outcomes and ensuring access to quality healthcare services. The day also honours the legacy of modern nursing pioneer Florence Nightingale.

The department stated that as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the healthcare system, the Gauteng College of Nursing (GCON) continues to play a critical role in producing skilled nursing professionals equipped to respond to the growing healthcare needs of communities across the province.

According to the department, GCON has produced more than 2 100 nursing graduates across its campuses over the past four years (2023 – 2026), many of whom are now serving in public healthcare facilities throughout Gauteng.

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In 2023, GCON graduated 142 students from its Diploma in Nursing programme. This number increased to 299 graduates in 2024. By 2025, the institution recorded 922 graduates across diploma, advanced diploma and postgraduate nursing programmes, followed by a further 813 graduates in 2026.

The department indicated that the growing graduation numbers demonstrate the institution’s expanding contribution towards addressing the increasing demand for qualified nursing professionals within the public healthcare system.

Paying tribute to nurses, Mazibuko said nurses remain central to the functioning of the healthcare system and continue to serve communities with dedication and professionalism under often demanding conditions.

“Nurses are the heartbeat of the public healthcare system. Their 1 of 2 dedications, resilience and compassion remain critical to the delivery of quality healthcare services across our communities.

“We therefore call on communities to continue supporting, respecting and protecting nurses and healthcare workers. Any form of attack, intimidation or humiliation directed at nurses and healthcare workers is unacceptable and must be condemned at all times,” said Mazibuko.

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Speaking during recent graduation ceremonies held on May 8 at SG Lourens and Ga-Rankuwa GCON campuses, Mazibuko encouraged graduates to serve communities with compassion, professionalism and dedication as they enter the healthcare sector.

“As you enter the healthcare profession, you carry with you the responsibility to uphold the values of compassion, integrity and patient-centred care. Our communities look to nurses for treatment, comfort, dignity and hope during some of the most difficult moments in their lives.

“I therefore encourage all graduates to serve with humility, professionalism and a deep commitment to improving the lives of others,” said the MEC.

As part of International Nurses Day, the department extended its sincere appreciation to all nurses for their selfless service and continued commitment to improving the health and well-being of the people of Gauteng.