Deralakatte: PRERANA Science Fest 2026 was inaugurated at Father Muller Auditorium, Deralakatte. The fest was jointly organised by Father Muller Homoeopathic Medical College & Hospital (FMHMC&H), Father Muller College of Pharmaceutical Sciences (FMCOPS) and Father Muller Homoeopathic Pharmaceutical Division (FMHPD).
Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director, Father Muller Charitable Institutions, presided over the programme. Rev. Dr Fr Praveen Leo Lasrado, Secretary, Catholic Board of Education, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Rev. Fr Donald Crasta, Administrator, FMHMC & FMCOPS welcomed the gathering. The Chief Guest and dignitaries inaugurated the festival in a colourful ceremony. Principals of participating pre-university colleges and schools were felicitated for their cooperation and encouragement of student participation.
In his message, Chief Guest Rev. Dr Fr Praveen Leo Lasrado highlighted the importance of curiosity in driving innovation and encouraged students to explore new ideas and pursue discoveries.
Delivering the presidential address, Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo urged students to ask “why” and “how” and seek solutions through enquiry. He emphasised that curiosity leads to discovery and helps address real-life challenges. He encouraged students to keep their scientific spirit alive, develop a scientific and research temper, and extended his best wishes to the organisers and visiting students.
Dr E S J Prabhu Kiran, Principal, FMHMC, proposed the vote of thanks.
Rev. Fr Nelson Dheeraj Pais, Administrator, FMHPD; Dr Sateesh, Principal, FMCOPS; Dr Vilma Meera Dsouza, Vice Principal, FMHMC; Dr Girish Navada U.K., Medical Superintendent; Dr Deepa, Deputy Medical Superintendent; Dr Indu O S, Convenor; and Mrs Nishmitha, Co-convenor, were present on the dais. Following the ceremony, the dignitaries visited the exhibition stalls.
The fest drew approximately 4,000 students from 50 pre-university colleges, featuring 13 competitions, four hands-on workshops and more than 50 science models. A variety of food stalls added to the festive atmosphere.
