Mangaluru: Father Muller Homoeopathic Medical College & Hospital, a unit of Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI), conducted its 36th Graduation Ceremony on April 16, 2026, at the Father Muller Convention Centre, Kankanady. The ceremony marked a significant academic milestone as 111 graduates were conferred their degrees in the presence of distinguished dignitaries and faculty members.

The event reflected the institution’s long-standing legacy of excellence in homoeopathic education and healthcare, celebrating the achievements of students stepping into the medical profession.

Grand ceremonial opening

The programme commenced with a solemn procession of graduates, accompanied by a ceremonial band and a guard of honour, setting a dignified tone for the occasion. The dignitaries were accorded a traditional welcome with Poornakumbha.

The ceremony was presided over by Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangaluru Diocese and President of FMCI. The Chief Guest for the occasion was Dr K. S. Gangadhara Somayaji, Vice Chancellor of Yenepoya (Deemed to be University).

Emphasis on values and academic excellence

The formal programme began with an invocation, followed by a welcome address by Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director, FMCI. He highlighted the values of wisdom, perseverance, and compassionate service, while reflecting on the 146-year legacy of the institution.

Dr E.S.J. Prabhu Kiran, Principal, presented the annual report for the academic year 2025–26, detailing achievements in academics, clinical services, and research. The event also celebrated the institution’s NABH accreditation for its hospital and NABL accreditation for its medical laboratory, reinforcing its commitment to quality healthcare and diagnostics.

Degrees conferred to 111 graduates

A total of 111 students, including 92 undergraduate (BHMS) students and 19 postgraduate (MD Homoeopathy) students, were conferred their degrees during the ceremony. The Chief Guest awarded the degrees, followed by the administration of the Homoeopathic Physician’s Oath.

The Chief Guest, in his graduation address, described the occasion as a major milestone and encouraged graduates to uphold empathy, pursue research, and maintain respect for patients, teachers, and their alma mater.

Awards and recognitions presented

The ceremony also recognised academic excellence and achievements across various categories. University rank holders and subject-wise toppers were honoured, with the institution securing 4 undergraduate and 12 postgraduate ranks under the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS).

Notable awards included:

  • RGUHS Gold Medal in Homoeopathic Materia Medica awarded to Dr Merlin Liza James
  • CCRH Scholarship for Quality MD Dissertation awarded to Dr Shreyank S Kotian
  • Dr Jannu Pearly Sharon Memorial Research Award awarded to Dr K Kadambari
  • Undergraduate Award of Excellence awarded to Dr Srikanya K H
  • Postgraduate Award of Excellence awarded to Dr Akshara T
  • Best Outgoing Postgraduate Award awarded to Dr Akshay J Nair
  • President’s Gold Medal for Best Outgoing Undergraduate awarded to Dr Akhil Monteiro

Students were also recognised for achievements in university-level sports competitions, highlighting their all-round excellence.

Messages of responsibility and innovation

In his presidential address, Bishop Dr Peter Paul Saldanha congratulated the graduates and emphasised that the occasion marks both an achievement and a responsibility. He highlighted the importance of innovation and research in modern healthcare while stressing the unique strength of homoeopathy in providing personalised and compassionate care.

The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Rev. Fr Donald Nilesh Crasta, followed by the institution anthem and recession of graduates and dignitaries.

Thanksgiving mass held

A thanksgiving Eucharistic celebration was also held on the same day at Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel, Deralakatte, attended by graduates, parents, and staff, marking a spiritual conclusion to the memorable occasion.

A milestone for future healthcare professionals

The 36th Graduation Ceremony stood as a proud moment for Father Muller Homoeopathic Medical College & Hospital, reaffirming its commitment to nurturing competent, compassionate, and skilled healthcare professionals.