CHANDIGARH, 04.02.26-On the occasion of World Cancer Day 2026, the Continuing Nursing Education (CNE) Cell, in collaboration with the Department of Clinical Haematology and Medical Oncology (CHMO), PGIMER Chandigarh, organized an educational programme titled “Symposium on Oncology Nursing Excellence: United by Unique.” The programme saw the active participation of over 100 nursing personnel, highlighting the institute’s commitment to strengthening cancer care through empowered nursing leadership.
The programme aimed to enhance awareness and professional competence among nursing staff in the areas of cancer prevention, early detection, treatment modalities, and holistic patient care. Key discussions focused on addressing stigma, effective patient counselling, management of treatment-related side effects, and the adoption of compassionate, evidence-based nursing practices essential for improved cancer outcomes.
Welcoming the participants, Dr. Vipin Koushal, Medical Superintendent and Head, Department of Hospital Administration, emphasized the central role of nurses in oncology care as he stated, “Nurses are the backbone of cancer care. Continuous education equips them not only with clinical skills but also with the empathy and confidence required to support patients through their most challenging journeys,” he said.
Dr. Pankaj Malhotra, Head, Department of Clinical Haematology and Medical Oncology, highlighted the evolving role of oncology nursing in multidisciplinary cancer management when he highlighted, “Advances in cancer treatment demand equally advanced nursing practices. Well-trained nurses significantly enhance treatment adherence, patient safety, and overall outcomes.”
The academic sessions covered a wide range of oncology nursing priorities. Dr. Lakshay Tyagi , SR CHMO spoke on cancer prevention and screening, while Mr. Shubham, Medical Social Welfare Officer, outlined welfare schemes and support systems available for cancer patients. Dr. Rekha Rani Nar, Nurse Educator, discussed best practices for handling oncological medications, followed by Lt. Col. (Dr.) Naveen Yadav, who addressed long-term toxicity and effects of cancer therapy. An engaging session on empathy-based communication was conducted by Mr. Sunil Kumar, Nurse Educator.
A multidisciplinary panel discussion featuring Prof. Pankaj Malhotra, Prof. Alka Khadwal, Prof. Gaurav Prakash, Dr. Aditya Jandial , Dr. Nancy Sahni, Chief Dietician, and Mrs. Jyoti Bala, Senior Nursing Officer, was moderated by Dr. Navneet Dhaliwal, Additional Professor and Joint Medical Superintendent, Department of Hospital Administration.
Summing up the initiative, *Dr. Navneet Dhaliwal, Programme Lead, CNE Cell stated,“Empowering nurses through structured education is key to delivering patient-centred, ethical, and compassionate cancer care. This programme reflects PGIMER’s commitment to building resilient healthcare teams.” he said.
The sessions were conducted by nurse educators from the CNE Cell, including *Mrs. Meenakshi Vyas, Mrs. Achla Agarwal, Mr. Sunil Kumar, and Dr. Rekha R. Nar under expert guidance.
The programme concluded with a strong message of hope, awareness, and shared responsibility in the fight against cancer, reinforcing the spirit of World Cancer Day and PGIMER’s continued dedication to excellence in oncology care.