“Operate with the highest ethical standards” – PM tells graduates of Texila University

Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips today urged 115 graduates of the Texila American University (TAU) to serve with the highest ethical standards and to become leaders within the medical profession.

He made these statements during the feature remarks at the university’s eighth graduation ceremony, which was held virtually.

“Uphold the tenets of your Hippocratic Oath by operating with the highest ethical standards of your profession…build on your skill and character with honour and discipline… be the medical professional who exhibits trust, confidentiality and honesty at all times”.

At the event, 30 persons graduated with degrees in Medicine, 51 persons with Bachelor of Science degrees in Nursing and 32 persons with Bachelor of Science degrees in Public Health.

AGENTS OF CHANGE

Prime Minister Phillips told the graduates to be the agents of change in the working world.  He also encouraged them not to be disheartened by the challenging realities of their professions.

“You will be challenged with burdensome work, long hours and huge responsibilities, and if left unchecked, your diligence can lead to stress and burnout…let not the realities be a downer of this shining moment…think of ways that your leadership can be transformative in your profession- make changes in the lives of your colleagues and patients and even in your environment”.

The Senior Government Official added that Guyana stands to benefit from the new batch of medical professionals as the Government seeks to enhance the health of all its citizens.

CIVIC DUTY

Meanwhile, Chancellor of TAU, Saju Bhaskar, told the graduates that service is a part of their civic duty.

“You have made your community proud and will be sharing your part in building the nation’s health as physicians, nurses and public health specialists.”

Recipient of the Chancellor’s Award for the Best Graduating Student in the College of Medicine, Cecilia Gadaga, said that she was thankful for her family, who supported her throughout her academic journey. Gadaga, who conducted her clinical rotations in the USA, also said that she is grateful to have been able to do so, considering the challenges presented by COVID-19.

“This journey has brought a lot of uncertainty and at times exhaustion, but these are the times that define the core of our career. When COVID hit, I was just beginning my rotations, with my family standing behind me and mentors provided by Texila to guide me along the way. I was able to continue my rotations during this testing time… it is very good to know that I came out on the other side and I am very proud of myself”.   At the conclusion of the graduation ceremony, Prime Minister Phillips, at his office, was presented with a plaque of appreciation on behalf of the Texila American University by Director of Operations Jesvin Pradeep Kumar. Also present was Director – Recruitment/ Public Relations, Sreebalakumar.