Mangaluru: Father Muller College of Speech and Hearing, a constituent unit of Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI), inaugurated the 20th batch of Bachelor in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology (BASLP), the 7th batch of M.Sc. Audiology and M.Sc. Speech Language Pathology, and the first batch of the Ph.D. programme in Speech Language Pathology for the academic year 2026–27.
The inaugural programme, held at the Decennial Memorial Hall, Knowledge Centre, also marked the commencement of the institution’s Vicennial Opening Year (2007–2027), celebrating two decades of excellence in speech, language, and hearing sciences.
Vicennial celebrations inaugurated
The programme began with a welcome address by Prof. Cynthia Santhmayor, Principal of the college, who greeted the newly admitted students and their families.
The Vicennial Opening Year was formally inaugurated by Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions, along with other dignitaries through a ceremonial digital launch.
The symbolic event featured a specially designed animation unveiling the institution’s 20th anniversary celebrations, followed by an audio-visual presentation tracing the college’s journey since its establishment in 2007.
The presentation highlighted the institution’s milestones in academic excellence, clinical services, research, and community outreach, culminating in the launch of its first doctoral programme in Speech Language Pathology.
Chief Guest inspires students to serve with compassion
Delivering the inaugural address, Dr. Ronald Acquin Nazareth, Registrar of St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University), encouraged students to uphold the values of compassion, perseverance, integrity, and professional ethics throughout their careers.
Drawing inspiration from the life of former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, he narrated how Kalam regarded the development of lightweight calipers for children affected by polio as one of his most fulfilling contributions, highlighting that knowledge finds its greatest purpose when used to improve the lives of others.
He urged students to combine professional competence with empathy and a strong commitment to serving society.
As a mark of appreciation, Rev. Fr. George Jeevan Sequeira, Administrator of Father Muller Medical College Hospital, felicitated the chief guest.
Institution celebrates two decades of growth
Presiding over the programme, Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo welcomed the students into the Father Muller family and reflected on the institution’s remarkable growth over the past 20 years.
He highlighted the college’s achievements in academics, clinical practice, research, and community service, noting that the launch of the Ph.D. programme marked another significant milestone in its academic journey.
He encouraged students to strive for holistic development while remaining committed to compassion, discipline, ethical practice, and service to humanity.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Mr. Pancham Ponnana, Associate Professor of Audiology and programme coordinator.
The event was compered by Ms. Melicia Shainy D’Souza, Speech Language Pathologist Grade I, and Ms. Hadline Rechael Noronha, Audiologist Grade I.
The inauguration marked the beginning of a new academic year while celebrating two decades of the institution’s contribution to education, research, and patient care in the field of speech and hearing sciences.
