Controversy erupts over appointment of non-nursing professional as Principal at MMINSR, SKIMS Soura

Srinagar, Jan 14: Discontent has erupted within the nursing community over the recent appointment of a non-nursing professional as Principal of the Madr-e-Meharban Institute of Nursing and Research (MMINSR) at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Soura.

The decision, made by the Director of SKIMS, has drawn strong opposition from nursing professionals, students, and various stakeholders, who have expressed concerns about its implications for nursing education and professional autonomy.

The Nursing Education and Research Trained Nurses’ Association of India strongly objected to the appointment, citing it as a violation of Indian Nursing Council (INC) guidelines. These guidelines mandate that nursing institutions must be led by qualified and experienced nursing professionals. Javaid Ahmad, chairperson of the association, said that such decisions undermine the expertise and leadership of highly qualified nursing faculty within the institution.

“This decision disregards the qualifications and experience of senior nursing professionals, undermining the sanctity of nursing education. Nursing is a specialized profession that requires leaders with in-depth knowledge of nursing sciences,” he told news agency KINS, adding that he has received numerous complaints from students and nursing officers expressing their concerns.

The controversy has also brought attention to senior faculty members at MMINSR, particularly Ayoub Dar, the senior-most nursing professional at the institute. With a postgraduate degree in nursing and over 15 years of teaching and administrative experience, Dar has been highlighted as a suitable candidate for the role. Critics argue that such experienced professionals were unjustly overlooked in favor of an individual lacking the necessary nursing background.

“What is the purpose of attaining the highest degrees in nursing if our professionals must work under non-nursing personnel? How can someone without knowledge of nursing ethics, pedagogy, and clinical practice do justice to this critical role?” Javaid questioned.

The nursing community is calling for the intervention of higher authorities, including the Health Minister and Chief Minister, to reconsider the decision. They demand that the position of Principal at MMINSR, SKIMS Soura, be filled by a deserving and qualified nursing professional in accordance with INC guidelines. (KINS)