63 students from now discontinued nursing colleges re-attracted at government colleges

For 63 students cheated at the now-fired Nightingale Nursing College in Mehdipatnam, Hyderabad, the Director of Medical Education (DME) facilitated their relocation to various government-run nursing colleges.

These students come primarily from regular caste (SC), planned tribal (ST) and backward class (BC) communities, and from financially disadvantaged families, and can now resume their general nursing and midwife (GNM) courses.

DME revoked its nursing college license in March after the institution was accused of cheating students and lacking necessary facilities. Social activist Lubna Sarwath said that while the relocation marks a major milestone, several key issues have not been addressed.

“Of course of the 63 students, only 32 received the original academic documents, including their 10th and Intermediate Certificates, Transfer Certificates, Caste and Income Certificates, and the True Certificates. The remaining documents are still withheld by the management of the Nightingale Nursing College. These 32 certificates were made possible only after the submission of these 32 certificates made by the Hyderabad Police Compisional Commission’s intervention.

Ms Sarwath also added that the institution has not posted details of bank account related to student scholarships online, which posed a barrier for those who moved to other institutions and is now facing delays in obtaining government scholarships. Additionally, some students who graduated from Nightingale Nursing School two years ago have not yet obtained their nursing certificates or original documents, making it difficult for them to continue their studies or seek employment.

Ms Savas said: “The agency has filed a petition with the Trangana High Court seeking to allow for resumption of action. Students and parents urge the government to stand in court and take criminal proceedings to ensure future justice and prevent similar students from exploiting students.”