The graduation ceremony for the Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing took place on 20 June in the Aula Magna at UIC Barcelona’s Barcelona Campus. The event was filled with emotion and was presided over by the Director of the Department of Nursing, Dr Encarna Rodríguez. It brought together the new graduates, accompanied by their families, friends and lecturers.
This year’s sponsor was Dr Olga Navarro, nurse, lecturer in the Department of Nursing and Podiatry at the University of Valencia, and co-author of the book Enfermeras invisibles (Invisible Nurses). In her keynote speech, Dr Navarro shared her thoughts and advice on how to face the challenges of the profession. She encouraged the graduates to never lose “your curiosity, to keep learning, researching and innovating; but never forget that we work with and for people.”
An expert in technology applied to wellbeing, with a strong background in innovation and digital health, Dr Navarro urged the graduates to continue learning throughout their professional lives, while maintaining their connection with the University. “A robot may be able to take over some of our tasks, but it will never replace the humanity, support and care we offer our patients,” she emphasised.
She also called on the new generation of professionals to take responsibility for tackling future challenges through research, care science and social commitment. “It is urgent that we build our science through care research to reduce the impact of chronic illness, poverty and unhealthy ageing. We need you.”
During the ceremony, the graduates received their sashes and diplomas, and the Extraordinary End-of-Degree Award in Nursing was presented to student Tomás Bodego.
Student representatives also addressed their classmates and the audience, expressing their gratitude for the support of their lecturers and the unconditional backing of their families. Lecturer Daniel Arbonés, chosen by the students as the sponsor of the graduating class, praised the group’s spirit and resilience.
Dr Encarna Rodríguez, Director of the Department of Nursing, brought the ceremony to a close. In her speech, she encouraged the new professionals to remain true to the values they had demonstrated during their time at the University. “We are living in a time full of opportunities. Now is the moment to decide where you want to go and to build your own path; and remember that here, you will always find a community that supports you.”
