FMMC, FMCOAHS, FMCOP Graduates Shine Bright on FMCI Graduation Day
Mangaluru: The 21st Graduation Ceremony of the prestigious institutions under Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI) – Father Muller Medical College (FMMC), Father Muller College of Allied Health Sciences (FMCOAHS), and Father Muller College of Physiotherapy (FMCOP) – was held with grandeur and reverence on Friday, 4th April 2025, at the Father Muller Convention Centre, Kankanady, Mangaluru.
The event marked the culmination of years of dedication and academic pursuit by graduating students across various health science disciplines.The academic procession of the graduands, faculty, and dignitaries began at 3:30 PM, setting a ceremonial tone for the occasion. A floral tribute was offered at the statue of the venerable founder, Fr Augustus Muller, honoring his legacy and vision.A prayerful invocation was rendered by students of the Father Muller College of Allied Health Sciences, seeking divine blessings for the graduates and the gathering.
Rev. Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, Director of FMCI, warmly welcomed the Chief Guests, dignitaries, faculty, students, and parents. He acknowledged the collective efforts of the faculty in shaping competent healthcare professionals and emphasized the values of service, integrity, and compassion. Quoting Mother Teresa, he said, “We need not know everything, but what little we know, we must use to do good for the poor and suffering.” He also appreciated the trust shown by parents and guardians in FMCI.
Rev. Fr Ajith B. Menezes, Administrator of FMMC/FMCOAHS/FMCOP, presented a comprehensive report highlighting the academic, research, and extracurricular achievements of the institutions over the past year. Notable accomplishments included 5 RGUHS ranks in MD/MS, 5 subject ranks in MBBS, 15 overall ranks in Master’s programs, 5 overall subject ranks, and 14 subject ranks in Bachelor’s programs under RGUHS. The Father Muller College of Physiotherapy secured 15 subject ranks in the recently concluded 2024 examination.
The Graduation Address was delivered by Dr Bhagavan B. C., Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of RGUHS, who congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to serve society with empathy and excellence, upholding the noble values of their alma mater. He said that challenges improve life, and one must understand their own capabilities and limitations. Doctors must be aware of India’s changing demographics, disease patterns, and social dynamics to treat patients accordingly. He reminded the audience, “Society remembers those who give more than those who receive.” This was his first graduation address since assuming the role of Vice Chancellor at RGUHS.
Dr Rajiv Kumar, Senior Medical Officer, Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, Government of India, in his address, applauded the institution’s contribution to health sciences and urged the graduates to embrace innovation, ethics, and continuous learning. Speaking eloquently in Hindi, he wished the students strength during times of crisis, noting that such experiences build resilience and make one a better healer. He highlighted the importance of keeping up with the ever-evolving field of medical science, especially with the rise of AI.
The Bishop of Mangalore and President of FMCI, Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, delivered the Presidential Address. He reminded graduates of their responsibility as caregivers and ambassadors of the institution’s mission – “Heal and Comfort.” He said, “You came, you learnt, you earned, and now you go to humanity with your learning. Be the healers you are meant to be.” He beautifully likened the thesis to the introduction, while the chapters of experience are yet to be written by the graduates themselves.
Graduation certificates were awarded, and the professional oath was administered to graduates from the following streams:
Allied Health Sciences – Undergraduate (MLT, MIT, RT, AT & OTT, RDT, BHA)Physiotherapy – Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT)
MBBS, MD/MS
Allied Health Sciences – Postgraduate (MSc MLT, MSc MIT, MHA, MSc Clinical Psychology, MPT)
The official anthem of Father Muller Charitable Institutions was rendered with pride and emotion by the college choir.
Dr N. Nishitha Ramesh, on behalf of all graduates, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the management, faculty, and families. She spoke with inspiration and commitment toward serving society with dedication and compassion.
A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of prestigious awards and recognitions:
a) Best Outgoing Graduates – 2024
Best Outgoing Allied Health Sciences Graduate: Ms Akshatha Vegas – Department of B.Sc. MIT
Late John Linu Varghese Memorial Prize for Best Outgoing BPT Graduate: Ms Anjelina Thaju Thomas
FMCI President’s Gold Medal for the Best Outgoing MBBS Graduate:
Dr Abishek J Stephen Harris
(The highest institutional honor bestowed on a graduating student for overall excellence)
Academic Excellence Awards were presented to toppers in various courses for outstanding academic performance.
Sports Recognition Awards were given to students who represented the institution at university, state, and national levels.Students who secured university ranks were felicitated by the Chief Guest.
The esteemed guests of the day were honored with tokens of appreciation and gratitude by the Bishop of Mangalore.
Rev. Fr Sylvester V. Lobo, Administrator of Father Muller Hospital, Thumbay, delivered the vote of thanks, extending appreciation to all who contributed to the success of the grand occasion.
The event concluded with the rendering of the National Anthem.
The dignitaries, faculty, and graduates exited in a ceremonial recession, followed by a Graduation Dinner, celebrating this joyous milestone.
The 21st Graduation Ceremony of FMMC, FMCOAHS, and FMCOP stood as a proud testament to the commitment of Father Muller Charitable Institutions to holistic education, compassionate healthcare, and ethical service. The event left an indelible mark on the hearts of graduates as they step into their professional lives, carrying forward the legacy of excellence and service.
This was the second of three consecutive days of graduation celebrations, where FMCI’s proud gems – the new-age leaders in healthcare – are sent forth in service to the nation and the world.
Dignitaries on the dais included:
Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo – Director Designate, FMCI
Rev. Fr George Jeevan D’Cruz – Administrator, FMMCH
Rev. Fr Sylvester Lobo – Administrator, FMH-Thumbay
Rev. Fr Nilesh Crasta – Assistant Administrator, FMMCH
Dr Antony Sylvan D’Souza – Dean, FMMCH
Dr Hilda D’Souza – Principal, FMCOAHS
Prof. Cherishma D’Silva – Principal, FMCOP
Dr Uday Kumar – Medical Superintendent, FMMCH
Dr Venkatesh B. M. – Vice Dean, FMMCH
Prof. Ifthikar Ali Fareed, President of the Karnataka State Allied Health Professionals (a Government of Karnataka-constituted body), was also present.
Professors adorned in gowns, faculty, and staff stood proudly in support of the graduates.
Members of the Governing Board of FMCI, the Father Muller Centenary Society, RGUHS Senate, and former Dean of FMMC, Dr Sanjeev Rai, were also in attendance.
A total of 489 graduates and postgraduates were awarded their degrees during the ceremony.
