Inaugural Nursing Capping, Candle Lighting, and White Coat Ceremony at AUK

Duhok, Kurdistan Region – November 28, 2023 – The American University of Kurdistan (AUK)’s College of Nursing is set to host its first-ever Capping, Candle Lighting, and White Coat Ceremony on December 2. This event marks a notable achievement for the University, highlighting its commitment to elevating healthcare standards in nursing education. The spotlight will shine on the 23 nursing students who are at the heart of this transformative journey, and each one, a torchbearer of change, represents the future generation of nurses.

The ceremony, reflecting Florence Nightingale’s legacy, is a unique event celebrating nursing students’ dedication and achievements. It symbolizes the transition from classroom education to clinical practice, embodying values of integrity, empathy, and professionalism. The event signifies pride and responsibility as participants prepare for a career dedicated to healing and caring for others.

The ceremony also includes the symbolic “Capping,” where nursing students receive caps, a traditional part of the nursing uniform, and the Candle Lighting Ceremony, inspired by Nightingale’s lamp. The lighting of the lamps symbolizes the illumination of knowledge and wisdom that these nursing students will carry with them throughout their careers. It pays homage to Nightingale’s lamp, which she carried during her rounds, symbolizing the guiding light that nurses provide in the darkest hours of illness. The flickering flame represents the light of compassion and empathy that nurses bring to their patients in times of need, serving as beacons of hope and comfort.

The Donning of White Coat, another integral part of the event, underscores the professionalism and integrity expected from nursing professionals. This is not just a symbolic gesture, but a commitment to uphold the highest standards of patient care and to carry out their duties with the utmost competence and compassion.

Dr. Jervy Bernardino, the Dean of the College of Nursing, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming event, stating, “This ceremony is not just a celebration; it is a manifestation of AUK’s commitment to shaping the future of healthcare in the region. We are pioneering a transformative era in nursing education, one that values not only technical expertise but also the human connection that lies at the core of patient care.”

The ceremony is expected to draw the attention of healthcare professionals, educators, and policymakers, with the potential to inspire similar initiatives in educational institutions across the region.