“Better the Best by Creating a Problem”: Father Muller Research Week 2025 Inaugurated
Mangaluru, June 2025: Father Muller Research Week 2025 commenced with a compelling call to action—“Better the Best by Creating a Problem”—emphasizing that true innovation arises when we challenge the status quo and ask, “What more can I do?”
The inauguration took place at the DM Hall of Father Muller Medical College, heralding a week-long celebration of inquiry, collaboration, and innovation. The programme called upon students, researchers, and faculty to embrace interdisciplinary research as a means of solving real-world healthcare challenges.
The event was graced by Dr G. Arun Maiya, Dean of Manipal College of Health Professions and Head of the MAHE Medical Device Hub, Manipal, as Chief Guest. Rev. Fr Ajith B Menezes, Administrator of FMMC/FMCOAHS/FMCOP, presided over the function. Other dignitaries present included Dr Antony Sylvan D’Souza, Dean, FMMC; Dr Ramesh Bhat, Head, Father Muller Research Centre; and Dr Shivashankara, Principal, FMCOAHS Thumbay and Co-Convenor.
Keynote Highlights
In his address, Dr Arun Maiya highlighted:
- The power of teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration in transforming healthcare
- The importance of research, innovation, and entrepreneurship within academic ecosystems
- The significance of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and India’s Faculty Entrepreneurship Policy 2019
- Opportunities to access extramural grants and CSR funding for advancing research
- The Medical Innovation Device Hub at MAHE—India’s first public-private partnership (PPP) in medical technology—funded by the Union Government with ₹24 crore
He also encouraged collaborative research between FMMC, MAHE, IITs, and other premier institutions to scale innovation and societal impact.
Presidential Address: Insights and Inspiration
In his presidential remarks, Rev. Fr Ajith B Menezes commended the Research Club and faculty mentors for fostering a research-oriented environment. Sharing an analogy from Japanese industry, he noted:
“When asked if there are any problems, the Japanese respond, ‘Why not create one?’—because challenges lead to growth.”
He added, “Our real problem is often our reluctance to acknowledge problems. But success lies in asking, ‘What more can I do?’—and that is the true genesis of research.”
A Vision for Innovation at FMRC
In his welcome address, Dr Ramesh Bhat conveyed the driving purpose behind the Research Week: to inspire both faculty and students to think beyond boundaries and pursue collaborative innovation. He emphasized FMRC’s commitment to creating affordable, quality healthcare solutions through research nurtured within its own ecosystem.
Dr Shivashankara, in his vote of thanks, expressed gratitude to the institution’s leadership and the participants whose enthusiasm made the event a success.
Graceful Compering
The event was eloquently compered by Ms Rhea Nicola Pinto and Mr Aaron Mejosh, Junior Research Fellow at the Father Muller Research Centre. Their poised presentation ensured a smooth flow of proceedings throughout the ceremony.
Towards a Future of Excellence
At the Father Muller Research Centre, the guiding vision is clear: Research that heals, teaches, and innovates. Through structured mentorship, seed funding, and strategic partnerships, FMRC continues to empower researchers to turn ideas into transformative solutions.
The synergy between students and faculty has already led to the development of affordable, world-class medical devices, underscoring FMCI’s legacy of combining compassion with scientific excellence.
As Research Week progresses, may it spark bold questions, forge lasting partnerships, and further the institution’s mission to “Heal and Comfort.”
