Srinagar, May 12 (KNO): Director SKIMS Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie on Tuesday said that nearly 1,200 paramedical posts across different cadres are under consideration for recruitment, including around 500 positions for nursing staff.
Addressing the International Nurses Day celebrations at SKIMS here, Professor Ganie, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said, “Proposed recruitment process is expected to substantially reduce the shortage of nursing staff at SKIMS within the next three months.”
He stated that the move would help bridge nearly 60 percent of the existing deficiency in nursing manpower at the premier healthcare institution.
He expressed gratitude to all stakeholders, including the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister’s administrations, for facilitating the recruitment process and supporting efforts aimed at strengthening healthcare services in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Director said enhancing the workforce would significantly improve patient care management and reinforce the spirit of this year’s International Nurses Day theme, “Our Nurses, Our Future: Empowered Nurses Save Lives.”
In another important announcement, Prof. Ganie said SKIMS is also working on introducing a paid nursing internship programme aimed at empowering young nursing professionals and equipping them with valuable clinical exposure and practical experience.
Reaffirming his commitment towards the expansion and modernization of SKIMS, Prof. Ganie said new departments would be established while existing facilities would be upgraded to meet the growing healthcare demands of the region.
He described nurses as the true pillars of the healthcare system and acknowledged their immense contribution towards patient care. “The word nurse is synonymous with motherhood in terms of compassion, empathy and selfless service,” he said.
Highlighting the emerging social challenges in Kashmir, the Director also stressed that healthcare workers, especially nurses, can play a vital role in combating the growing drug menace through counselling, awareness, rehabilitation support, and compassionate care.
Dean Medical Faculty SKIMS, Prof. Bashir Ahmad Fomda, said the theme of the event reflected the roadmap for the growth and empowerment of the nursing fraternity. He emphasized the need for structural support, clinical autonomy, adequate workspace, and greater participation of nurses in decision-making processes.
Additional Director SKIMS, Zahoor Ahmad Mir, congratulated the nursing staff and appreciated their tireless service and unwavering commitment towards patient care despite numerous challenges.
Incharge Principal of Madre Meharban College of Nursing SKIMS, Prof. Maqbool, observed that the increasing participation of men in the nursing profession reflects a positive societal change. However, he noted that women continue to remain closely associated with compassion and caregiving. He also thanked the SKIMS administration for extending support towards addressing issues related to the nursing faculty.
Medical Superintendent SKIMS, Prof. Farooq Ahmad Jan, termed nurses the backbone of patient care and said the global recognition earned by SKIMS was largely due to the dedication, professionalism, and commitment of its nursing workforce.
Medical Superintendents of SKIMS State Cancer Hospital and the Maternity Hospital also addressed the gathering and appreciated nurses for their tireless service and commitment towards patients.
Incharge Nursing Administration Mrs. Shafeeqa and Organising Secretary Mrs. Shameema Khan highlighted the pivotal role played by nurses in the healthcare system while paying tribute to Florence Nightingale. They also thanked the administration and organising committee for making the event successful—(KNO)