The ceremony for the 2024 International Day of the Midwife and International Nurses Day was held in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday.
Union Minister for Health Prof Dr Thet Khaing Win spoke on the occasion that in 1974, 12 May was chosen to celebrate International Nurses Day by the International Council of Nurses (ICN) as 12 May is the birthday of Florence Nightingale, whereas 5 May as the International Day of the Midwife by the International Confederation Midwives (ICM) in 1991.
This year’s theme for International Day of the Midwife is “Midwives: A Vital Climate Solution”, and for International Nurses Day is “Our Nurses. Our Future. The Economy Power of Care”.
He also highlighted the role of nurses and midwives in ensuring Universal Health Coverage, as they represent nearly 50 per cent of the health workforce.
He added that the nurses and midwives should learn the examples recognized not only in the country but also in the international countries. In the State Administration Council government term, the recipients of Florence Nightingale awards, Major Daw Khin Ohn Mya, Daw M Yaw Nam (assistant director-retired), Daw Thein Yi (female health staff-retired) and U Sa Naing Naing Tun (senior nurse) were conferred Wunna Kyaw Htin titles and six nurses and midwives who sacrificed their lives and limbs and who were wounded in terror attacks against the health workers were also conferred Ye Bala medals.
He then urged the nurses and midwives to follow their respective ethics in offering healthcare services to the public.
He also presented prizes to 10 nurses and midwives who received Wunna Kyaw Htin titles and Ye Bala medals.
Then, the talk show marking the 2024 International Day of the Midwife and International Nurses Day was continued, and the senior nurses shared their capacities and experiences. — MNA/KTZH
