As part of the Nursing Week Program organized by the Nursing Department of the Faculty of Health Sciences at Istanbul Medeniyet University, a conference titled “Building the Future Health System with Empowered Nursing” was held on May 15, 2026, presented by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Oya Çelebi Çakıroğlu. The conference addressed the strategic role of nursing in health systems, global nursing workforce issues, leadership, professional empowerment, health policies, and the future of nursing in the context of sustainable health systems. In line with the International Council of Nurses (ICN) 2026 theme, “Our Nurses. Our Future. Empowered Nurses Save Lives,” it was emphasized that nurses are not only caregivers but also key actors who strengthen the resilience of health systems, protect public health, and contribute to the sustainability of healthcare services. The conference highlighted the importance of strengthening nurses' safe working conditions, professional autonomy, leadership opportunities, participation in decision-making processes, and training opportunities for the quality of healthcare services. In addition, global nursing migration, nursing workforce shortages, health inequalities, and professional socialization processes were evaluated in line with current international reports.
At the conference, which was held with high participation, it was emphasized that nursing should be evaluated based on scientific knowledge, leadership, ethical values, and professional strength, and it was stated that future health systems can be built with strong nursing structures.
The program concluded by drawing attention to the importance of Nursing Week in terms of professional solidarity, awareness, and developing a common vision for the future.
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