GNA observes 90th anniversary

May 7, 2018

DPI, GUYANA, Monday, May 7, 2018

The Guyana Nurses Association (GNA) today, officially marked its 90th anniversary under the theme, “United Forces, Uplifting Nursing- Celebrating 90 years with pride.”

Today’s ceremony was held at the GNA building on Charlotte and Alexander Street.

Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence.

In her feature address, Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence noted that the theme chosen is an excellent one for such a notable milestone and speaks volumes to the expectations of the association.

“Irrespective of the communities you (nurses) are from or your social standing, you represent a solid, unique core of professionals without whom our health system would certainly be defunct. Our healthcare programmes would be non-functional; therefore, I call on you to hold your heads high and celebrate with pride, knowing that you are an integral part of one of the prestigious institutions…Be cognisant of the words ‘uniting forces,’ as it is said, in unity, there is strength,” Minister Lawrence said.

She also urged the nurses to use the opportunity to connect with their colleagues as a way to pool their resources for the advancement of nursing. She stressed that this will assist in improving the image of nursing and to bring it back to its glory.

Urging nurses to reflect on the anniversary’s theme, Minister Lawrence said that the association aims to advance the status of nursing as a profession through capacity building and the maintenance of quality nursing services.

“As you prepare the roadmap for moving forward for the 91st anniversary, I wish to ask you to look at the charter and the instruments that govern the Guyana Nurses Association and ensure you make provision to deal with the current issues and challenges in nursing,” the minister said.

She noted that the anniversary coincided with International Nurses Day, which is observed on May 12.

GNA President Cleopatra Barkoye and Grace Bond, Executive Director, GNA, were among others who attended the anniversary ceremony.

Formed in June 1928, the GNA is the oldest nurses’ association in the English-speaking Caribbean. It was established through the assistance of Dr. J. B. Singh OBE, who played a pivotal role in its formation.