Mangaluru: Father Muller College of Speech and Hearing achieved a historic milestone with the successful “switch-on” of its first cochlear implant recipient, marking the beginning of a transformative hearing journey for a young child. The moment signified not only a clinical achievement but also a deeply emotional turning point for the child and family.
The cochlear implant device was heavily subsidised by the management of Father Muller Charitable Institutions, reflecting the institution’s longstanding commitment to charitable healthcare, particularly for the poor and marginalised sections of society.
A life-changing activation
The much-awaited switch-on ceremony was conducted by audiologists Ms Susmitha C. G. and Mr Pancham Ponnana S. A., along with Ms Sushmitha Upadhyay, audiologist from Cochlear Company. The event took place in the presence of Dr Vinay Rao, Head of the Department of ENT, and ENT Surgeon Dr Sana Aboobackar.
The Cochlear implant switch-on is a critical stage in the cochlear implantation process. It marks the first time the implanted device is activated, enabling the recipient to perceive sound. Unlike hearing aids that amplify sound, cochlear implants directly stimulate the auditory nerve, allowing individuals with severe to profound hearing loss to experience sound sensations.
For the child and family, the activation symbolised hope, new beginnings and the promise of improved communication and quality of life.
Celebration of a new beginning
Following the activation ceremony, a celebratory gathering was organised to congratulate the child and family as they embarked on this life-changing journey. The event was graced by Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director; Rev. Fr. Michael Santhumayor, Administrator; Dr Antony D’Souza, Dean of FMMC; Prof. Cynthia Santhmayor, Principal of Father Muller College; Dr Sana Aboobackar; and other faculty members.
The presence of institutional leaders underscored the significance of the milestone and the collaborative effort behind the successful implantation and activation.
Emphasis on rehabilitation and therapy
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Cynthia Santhmayor and Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo highlighted that the switch-on represents only the beginning of the hearing journey. They stressed the critical importance of consistent speech and language therapy and structured auditory rehabilitation therapy to achieve optimal outcomes.
They explained that successful cochlear implantation depends not only on surgical precision but also on sustained professional guidance, parental involvement and disciplined therapeutic intervention. Structured auditory training enables the child to interpret sounds, develop speech clarity and build communication skills over time.
The institution reaffirmed its commitment to providing comprehensive post-implant rehabilitation services to ensure that the child receives holistic support.
Strengthening advanced hearing care
This milestone reflects the growing capabilities of Father Muller College of Speech and Hearing in delivering advanced ENT and audiological care. With the successful activation of its first cochlear implant recipient, the institution has expanded its role in specialised hearing healthcare services in Mangaluru.
The achievement also aligns with the broader mission of Father Muller Charitable Institutions to combine medical excellence with compassionate outreach, particularly for economically disadvantaged families seeking quality healthcare.
Conclusion
The first cochlear implant switch-on at Father Muller College of Speech and Hearing marks a defining moment in the institution’s journey. Beyond being a technological advancement, the event symbolises restored possibilities — the gift of sound, the development of speech and the opening of new avenues for education and social integration.
As the young recipient begins to experience the world of sound, the milestone stands as a testament to the power of medical innovation, institutional compassion and dedicated rehabilitation in transforming lives.
