GCC marks GCC nursing day on Tuesday

The countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) are marking Gulf Nursing Day this Tuesday, under the motto "Care; Excellence, Devotion." Director General of the Executive Bureau of the GCC Health Ministers Council Dr. Tawfiq Khoja said this occasion is being marked in harmony with a recommendation issued in the council's 74th meeting. It comes to stress appreciation to the great services rendered by nursing staff at all health facilities and to shed light on their rights as well as their duties. He noted the profession has great significance and recognition in early Islam, and the humane nature of those involved in it earned them great esteem and respect in all cultures, ages, and all parts of the world. It is a doubly rewarding profession in Islam, he said, as it brings along reward from the Almighty for heeding the rule of caring for fellow Muslims and fellow Man in general. The official reviewed aspects of the progress of this profession over the last century and the great advancements in health care and health services in the GCC. The council adopted many plans and strategies aiming to improve overall health and sought to enhance the experience of health care providers through interaction with peers, qualifications from esteemed specialized institutions, and stress on the fact that it is indeed a privilege to work in this profession. Khoja expressed hope there would be more stress and discussion of issues related to this field in school curricula, as that would increase its appeal and increase the number of GCC natives serving in this sector. The official praised efforts exerted by the GCC Technical Committee on Nursing, which included holding nine seminars and a tenth to follow soon, 27 meetings to discuss issues of the field, issue of guidebooks and specialized strategies, as well as establishing "Best Nurse Award" in each GCC state. The award is called "Nusaiba bintu Kaab Award".