The Guatemalan Social Security Institute (IGSS) held the graduation ceremony for its 74th class of Nursing Assistants, with 108 new professionals completing their training. The group consists of 21 men and 87 women, who finished a program aimed at enhancing human-centered care for IGSS beneficiaries.
José Adolfo Flamenco Jau, President of the Board of Directors at IGSS, addressed the graduates and emphasized their commitment and dedication. "This graduating class begins its professional future within an Institute that welcomes them and offers opportunities to grow," said Flamenco Jau. He added, "Your vocation and commitment will be fundamental to strengthen service and transform healthcare. You will make the difference."
IGSS authorities, along with academic staff who supported the students throughout their studies, attended the event. Their guidance was described as essential in helping students develop both technical skills and empathy required in nursing.
During the ceremony, Dr. Gary Reyes from the Department of Training and Development highlighted the long-standing impact of this training program on Guatemala's nursing workforce since its inception in 1953. He noted that nursing demands vocation, discipline, and service—qualities demonstrated by this cohort during their academic journey.
One graduate, Alexis Ruiz, shared his perspective on reaching this milestone: "This achievement represents a dream come true." Ruiz explained that he had aspired to work in healthcare since childhood and thanked his instructors and IGSS for supporting him through a process that allowed him to "bring out the best" in himself.
The IGSS Nursing Assistant program has trained thousands over decades as part of an ongoing effort to provide comprehensive healthcare services across Guatemala.
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