Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, part of the prestigious Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), hosted a grand inaugural event on October 14, 2024, to welcome the new MBBS Batch of 2024-25. Held at the Dr. TMA Pai Auditorium, the event marked the beginning of an important academic journey for the students who attended the ceremony with their families, faculty members, and dignitaries in celebration of this milestone.

 Chief Guests of the ceremony were Dr. Sharath K. Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences) of MAHE, with Dr. Raviraja N.S., Chief Operating Officer of MAHE Manipal, attending as the Guest of Honour, and Dr. Avinash Shetty, Medical Superintendent of Kasturba Hospital Manipal, serving as the Chief Guest.

 Dr. Padmaraj Hegde, Dean of Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, delivered the welcome address and provided an overview of what the students could expect in the coming years. He warmly welcomed the new batch of students, emphasizing KMC’s commitment to shaping not only competent doctors but also compassionate human beings. He highlighted the importance of balancing academic excellence with empathy, urging students to take advantage of every opportunity provided by the institution and to remain committed to the core values of the medical profession—compassion, empathy, and service.

The event began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, followed by a tribute to Dr. TMA Pai, the visionary founder of MAHE. The highlight of the event was the White Coat Ceremony, Conducted by Dr Anil K. Bhat, Associate Dean, KMC, Manipal a symbolic rite of passage into the medical profession. The new students donned their white coats and took the Charaka Shapath, pledging to adhere to the ethical principles of medicine throughout their careers.

 In his keynote address, Dr. Sharath K. Rao emphasized the responsibility that comes with entering the medical profession. “Today marks the start of a journey where knowledge meets compassion. As future doctors, you will be the source of hope and healing for your patients. Remember that while your academic excellence is crucial, your empathy and integrity will define your career,” he said, encouraging the students to remain committed to both learning and service.

 Dr. Raviraja N.S., in his address as the Guest of Honour, highlighted KMC’s legacy of academic excellence and urged the students to embrace the challenges ahead. “Medical education requires perseverance, dedication, and a continuous thirst for knowledge. At Kasturba Medical College, we will provide you with every opportunity to grow and succeed, but it is your passion and hard work that will truly determine your future,” he remarked, motivating the students to strive for success both academically and personally.

 The event also featured a special address by Dr. Avinash Shetty, who officially welcomed the batch by releasing the Student Handbook and handing over the white coats. “The white coat you wear today is a symbol of trust, responsibility, and service. Embrace it with integrity, and always strive to serve the community with the highest ethical standards,” he said.

 Students and their parents also had the opportunity to participate in exhibitions organized by faculty members and students of KMC, which showcased the rich history, academic achievements, and research contributions of the institution. These exhibitions provided a glimpse into the wide range of opportunities available to students at KMC, from cutting-edge research to cultural and co-curricular activities, fostering a deeper connection between the students, their families, and the institution.

 Throughout the day, students attended several informative and engaging sessions designed to help them transition into medical school life. These sessions focused on peer mentoring, the importance of research, and the value of co-curricular and cultural activities, ensuring that students are well-prepared to thrive both academically and socially. A panel discussion titled “What I Wish I Knew When I Entered Medical School” provided valuable insights from senior students and faculty, offering practical advice to help the new students navigate the challenges ahead.

 The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Kanthilatha Pai. To symbolize the beginning of their new journey at KMC, students participated in a sapling planting ceremony at Endpoint, marking the start of their academic careers and their connection to the institution. The successful inauguration ceremony left students and their families excited and motivated for the journey ahead, as Kasturba Medical College reaffirmed its commitment to excellence in medical education and its role in shaping the future of healthcare.