Mangaluru: The inaugural ceremony of the MBBS course for the 2018-19 academic term was held at Muller Dine, Father Muller Convention Centre. A total of 150 students were inducted into the twentieth batch of MBBS course.

Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, director, Father Muller Charitable Institutions presided over the programme. On the occasion, he congratulated the students who chose to be part of Father Muller’s and welcomed them to the Mullerian family. Medicine is a skill; it requires total commitment and a great deal of hard work in order to be an effective doctor. Father Muller established a homeopathic dispensary and treated patients with his care, the same care has been carried out all through these 138 long years and the institution has currently developed into a full-fledged organization serving the general public with its sympathetic care. "Commit yourself with hard work for a smooth adventure at Muller's," he further said.

Chief guest Prof Uma Maheshwar Rao Karanam, director, National Institute of Technology, Suratkal delivered the inaugural address. He said, "We human beings are exceptional because of the ability to think. Human race is interestingly unique on this earth. A physician treats the subjects who have the ability to think which can be totally different from other calling." He affirmed the adventure of his life and how he conquered the deterrents throughout his life which made him the individual he is today. "Be associated with nature. It inspires you never to surrender to everyday life, but teaches how to bounce back and never to be lost in disappointment. More than giving prescriptions and medicines you should be a consolation and relief to patients you are dealing with."

The formal inauguration began by lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries followed by welcome address by Dr Jayaprakash Alva, dean, Father Muller Medical College.

Eileen Roy and Libmus Varghese, students of 2nd MBBS 2016 batch recollected their experiences during the course of their study which was followed by self introduction from the freshers and parents feedback.

The institutional documentary which reflected the 138 years legacy of Father Muller Charitable Institutions was screened.

Dr Jayaprakash Alva, dean, FMMC introduced the university regulations and college discipline to the new batch of students to the college. Fr Ajit B Menezes, administrator, Father Muller Medical College highlighted the campus life and hostel rules to the new students.

Fr Rudolph Ravi D’Sa, administrator, FMMCH, heads of various departments, staff, parents and students were present on the occasion.

Dr Prakash Shetty, course coordinator and head of department of Anatomy rendered the vote of thanks.

Tanisha Charles, compered the programme.