Mangaluru: Yenepoya Medical College, a constituent unit of Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), organised the White Coat Ceremony for the first-year MBBS Batch of 2026 at the Yendurance Zone, Deralakatte, Mangaluru. The ceremony marked an important milestone in the journey of the aspiring medical professionals as they donned their white coats for the first time, symbolising their commitment to compassion, integrity, professionalism, and ethical medical practice.
The ceremony was addressed through video message by Dr. Yenepoya Abdulla Kunhi, Honourable Chancellor, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University, as the Chief Patron, and Dr. Benazir Ameer Ali, Head of Medical Tourism, Thumbay Healthcare and alumna of Yenepoya Medical College, Batch of 2003, as the Chief Guest. The Guests of Honour included Dr. M. Vijayakumar, Pro Chancellor, and Dr. K. S. Gangadhara Somayaji, Vice Chancellor, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University).
The programme commenced with an invocation, followed by the welcome address by Dr. Prakash Saldanha, Principal, Yenepoya Medical College. The ceremonial lamp lighting marked the formal inauguration of the event.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Abhay Nirgude, Vice Principal, Yenepoya Medical College, spoke on the journey of Yenepoya Medical College and highlighted the importance of academic excellence, clinical competence, and holistic development in medical education.
The Guest of Honour, Dr. K. S. Gangadhara Somayaji, Vice Chancellor, addressed the gathering and encouraged the students to embrace the opportunities offered by the university and develop into competent, compassionate, and socially responsible medical professionals.
The Chief Guest, Dr. Benazir Ameer Ali, shared her perspectives on the medical profession and inspired the students to uphold professional values, empathy, and dedication while serving patients and the community.
The Chief Patron, Dr. Yenepoya Abdulla Kunhi, Honourable Chancellor, conveyed his best wishes to the incoming batch and encouraged the students to pursue their medical education with sincerity, discipline, and a strong commitment to patient care.
Registrar, Dr. Aswini Dutt R, Prof. Dr Akhter Husain, Secretary, Islamic Academy of Education, Yenepoya Group, Dr B.T Nandish, Controller of Examinations, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Dr. Maji Jose, Dean of Student Affairs, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University) and Dr Meera Jacob, MEU Coordinator were present on the dais.
A key highlight of the ceremony was the donning of white coats by the first-year MBBS students, facilitated by the dignitaries and faculty members. The white coat symbolised their formal entry into the medical profession and their responsibility to uphold the highest standards of medical ethics and patient care.
This was followed by the administration of Charaka’s Oath by Dr. Habib Rahaman A. A., Medical Superintendent, Yenepoya Medical College Hospital, reinforcing the importance of service, compassion, humility, and ethical responsibility in the practice of medicine.
A parent of a first-year MBBS student addressed the gathering and expressed appreciation for the university’s efforts in creating a supportive and inspiring learning environment for aspiring doctors.
The formal ceremony concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Shaheena Yassir, Convener, Foundation Course Committee, followed by the National Anthem. The afternoon continued with an Ethnic and Cultural Day celebration, where students showcased their talents and cultural diversity through vibrant performances.
The White Coat Ceremony served as a meaningful reminder that medicine is not merely a profession but a commitment to humanity. The event reaffirmed Yenepoya Medical College’s dedication to nurturing knowledgeable, skilled, ethical, and compassionate healthcare professionals who will contribute meaningfully to society.
Heads of Departments, faculty members, university officials, parents, and students were part of the occasion, celebrating the beginning of a new chapter in the academic and professional journey of the first-year MBBS students.
