Mangaluru: The Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Yenepoya Dental College, a constituent unit of Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), commemorated International Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Day with academic enthusiasm and solemn remembrance, reaffirming its commitment to excellence in surgical education and patient care.
Tribute to a departed surgeon
The programme commenced with a heartfelt tribute to the late maxillofacial surgeon Dr Senthil Murugan, who passed away on 27 January 2026. Faculty members, postgraduate students and dignitaries observed a minute of silence in honour of his contributions to the field. Speakers recalled his dedication to patient care and academic mentoring, describing him as a committed clinician whose work had a lasting impact on the specialty.
Formal inauguration and felicitation
Dr Jagadish Chandra, Head of the Department and Organising Chairman, welcomed the gathering and emphasised the importance of continuous academic engagement in a rapidly advancing discipline.
The event was graced by Prof. Dr B. H. Shripathi Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor and eminent maxillofacial surgeon, as Guest of Honour, while Dr Aswini Dutt, Registrar, attended as Chief Guest. The function was presided over by Dr Laxmikanth Chatra, Principal of Yenepoya Dental College.
Dr Joyce Sequiera, Organising Secretary, introduced senior maxillofacial surgeon and academician Prof. Dr B. Rajendra Prasad, who was felicitated for his invaluable contributions to Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and for mentoring generations of students and young surgeons.
Also present were Dr Sham S. Bhat, Dean of the Faculty of Dentistry; Dr M. Hasan Sarfaraz, Vice-Principal; Heads of Departments; faculty members; and students, reflecting the collective academic spirit of the institution.
Evolving scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery
In their addresses, the dignitaries highlighted the expanding scope of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, which encompasses trauma management, oral oncology, reconstructive procedures, implantology and corrective jaw surgeries. They emphasised the need for adopting innovative surgical techniques and advanced diagnostic tools to improve patient outcomes.
Speakers also underlined the significance of ethical practice, patient-centred care and interdisciplinary collaboration. They observed that modern maxillofacial surgery increasingly requires coordination with specialties such as oncology, plastic surgery, ENT and anaesthesiology to ensure comprehensive and holistic treatment.
Academic engagement and clinical excellence
Dr Varsha Upadya presented an overview of the clinical spectrum of the specialty and showcased recent collaborative work undertaken by the department with other clinical units. The presentation highlighted the integration of scientific knowledge with practical application, reflecting the theme of continuous academic refinement and skill development.
The programme reinforced the department’s commitment to nurturing competent surgeons through structured postgraduate training, research initiatives and hands-on clinical exposure. Faculty members encouraged students to uphold professional ethics while striving for surgical precision and compassionate care.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr Akshatha Kaniyoor, who acknowledged the support of the university administration, faculty, organising committee and participants.
The celebration of International Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons Day at Yenepoya Dental College served as both a tribute to pioneers in the field and a renewed pledge towards academic excellence, innovation and community-oriented dental healthcare.
