CCTH goes old school as A& E relinquish “Brilla” trophy for cooking competition cup -NMW 2026 |Day 4|

CAPE COAST TEACHING HOSPITAL

Nurses and Midwives Week 2026: Cape Coast Teaching Hospital Relives the Good Old Days with a Spectacular Old School Fashion Parade.

The fourth day of the Nurses and Midwives Week celebrations 2026 at the  Cape Coast Teaching Hospital (CCTH) was nothing short of a journey through time, as nurses and midwives traded their modern uniforms for iconic fashion pieces from decades gone by. The hospital grounds came alive with colour, laughter and nostalgia as staff proudly showcased outfits inspired by the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1990s and the early 2000s.

What was initially expected to be a simple dress-up activity quickly turned into one of the most memorable highlights of the week-long celebration. From neatly pressed vintage dresses, elegant hats and gloves of the 1950s and 1960s to the colourful flared trousers, oversized shirts and afro hairstyles synonymous with the 1970s, participants embraced each era with remarkable attention to detail. Those representing the 1990s and early 2000s also drew smiles with their baggy jeans, denim outfits, tracksuits, colourful sneakers, oversized sunglasses, chunky jewellery and hairstyles that instantly reminded many of their school days and youthful adventures.

Walking through the hospital premises on Thursday felt like stepping into a living museum of fashion and culture. Every department added its unique touch, with staff eagerly posing for photographs and sharing stories behind the outfits they had carefully selected. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as colleagues admired one another’s creativity while trying to identify the different decades being represented.

For many of the senior nurses and midwives, the event stirred cherished memories of their early years in the profession. Conversations naturally drifted to stories of nursing training, life in the wards decades ago, the evolution of patient care and the remarkable transformation the nursing profession has undergone over the years. Younger nurses, on the other hand, had the rare opportunity to experience the styles that defined the generations before them, making the event not only entertaining but also educational.

Beyond the colourful display of fashion, the celebration served as a reminder that every generation has contributed to shaping the nursing and midwifery profession into what it is today. The old uniforms, hairstyles and accessories represented more than just changing fashion trends—they symbolised dedication, sacrifice and the unwavering commitment of nurses and midwives who served their communities with pride despite the limited resources available in earlier decades.

Patients and visitors were equally captivated by the unique display. Many could not resist stopping to admire the outfits, take photographs and engage the participants in conversations about the inspiration behind their chosen looks. The event created an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness, temporarily easing the pressures of the hospital environment while strengthening the bond between healthcare workers and the public they serve.

The nostalgic celebration also sparked lively debates about which era produced the best fashion. While some insisted that the elegance of the 1950s and 1960s could never be matched, others passionately defended the bold colours and expressive styles of the 1970s. Unsurprisingly, the millennials among the staff rallied behind the unforgettable fashion statements of the 1990s and early 2000s, proving that every generation holds a special place in the hearts of those who lived through it.

As the cameras flashed and laughter echoed across the hospital, one thing became abundantly clear: the old-school fashion day was about much more than clothing. It was a celebration of history, identity, shared experiences and the enduring spirit of nursing and midwifery. It reminded everyone that while times have changed and healthcare continues to evolve, the values of compassion, service and professionalism remain timeless.

Day Four of the Nurses and Midwives Week at Cape Coast Teaching Hospital will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most colourful and heartwarming moments of the celebration. By revisiting the fashion and memories of decades past, the hospital community not only honoured those who came before them but also reinforced the sense of unity and pride that continues to define the nursing and midwifery profession. It was a beautiful blend of history, culture and celebration—one that left smiles on faces and memories that will be cherished long after the festivities come to an end.

THE MAIN EVENT OF THE DAY

The main event of the day was the Nurses and Midwives Week quiz competition, which was eagerly anticipated. The holders, the Accident and Emergency, had posited that come hell or high water, blizzard or snow, bushfire or drought, they were going to defend the trophy they won last year with blood and toil. However, the story that unfolded after 5 rounds painted a different portrait from the one earlier illustrated by the defending champions. It was a nailbiting and exhilarating contest. After rounds of wits and display of intellectual acumen, the competition ending thus:

The ensuing banter and mini parade of the surgical sub-BMC was unavoidable. Save for the mortuary, the surgical sub-BMC paraded through the principal walkway/corridor of the hospital and its 144,000 wards. 

Amidst all the banter, one comment was head and shoulders above the rest: “One thing is clear this year: the Accident and Emergency came prepared for the cooking competition, NOT the quiz competition.”

The agenda set against the reigning champions, Accident and Emergency, surely “agended”.

In Agendaville, we say, “Agenda delayed is not Agenda denied”.