Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 29: The department of dermatology, venereology and leprosy, Father Muller Medical College, in association with the Prof J N Shetty Memorial Oration Trust and Karavali Dermatology Society, successfully conducted the ‘Prof J N Shetty Memorial Oration and KDS Clinical Meet’ on September 28 at the Conference Hall of FMMCH. The event brought together postgraduate students, faculty, and eminent dermatologists to discuss intriguing clinical cases and the latest developments in dermatology.
Prof J N Shetty was the first dean and head of the department of dermatology at Father Muller Medical College, serving from 1991 to 2000. He played a pivotal role in establishing the postgraduate course in dermatology and was widely recognized for his contributions to leprosy through his involvement with the Hind Kusht Nivaran Sangh. His lasting legacy is honoured through the annual Prof J N Shetty Memorial Oration.
















The inaugural ceremony began with a solemn invocation, followed by the traditional lighting of the lamp by the distinguished dignitaries. Dr Sukumar D, president of the Prof J N Shetty Memorial Oration Trust and professor of dermatology, AJ Institute of Medical Sciences, welcomed the gathering and shared the vision and purpose of the trust.
The formal inauguration was presided over by Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, director, FMCI, who emphasized the importance of carrying forward Prof Shetty’s vision of academic excellence, compassionate patient care, and collaborative growth in dermatology.
The occasion was graced by Dr Michael Santhumayor, administrator, FMMC; Dr Antony Sylvan D’Souza, dean, FMMC; Dr M Ramam, professor of dermatology & venereology, AIIMS, New Delhi; Dr Nanda Kishore B, former HOD of dermatology, FMMC, and consultant dermatologist, Mangaluru; Dr Sukumar D, and Dr Michelle Serene Fernandes, professor & head, department of dermatology, FMMC, Dr Rochelle Monteiro, president Karavali Dermatology Society.
Dr M Ramam was felicitated by the dignitaries.
The highlight of the programme was the Prof J N Shetty Memorial Oration delivered by Dr M Ramam on the topic ‘Beyond the obvious: Challenging common beliefs in clinical practice’. His lecture inspired the audience to question established norms and refine their diagnostic approach. The oration session was chaired by Dr Jacintha Martis and Dr Raghavendra Rao.
Dr Ramesh Bhat M, head – Father Muller Research Centre, FMCI, and professor, department of dermatology, FMMC, presented an insightful session on ‘Clinicopathological Correlation’. This session was chaired by Dr Shrutakirthi D Shenoi and Dr Kashinath Nayak.
The programme also featured interesting case presentations Dr Athreya G, Dr Divya Babu and Dr Yash Govind Mantri, postgraduates of the department of dermatology, FMMC.
This session was chaired by Dr Jerome Pinto and Dr Girish P N, who appreciated the postgraduates for their meticulous work in presenting complex clinical dilemmas.
The event was well attended by the staff and postgraduate students of Father Muller Medical College, members of the Karavali Dermatology Society, as well as heads of departments and postgraduate students from medical colleges across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts.
The programme was compered by Dr Janice Reema Lewis and Dr Madhurima Tadipatri, and a total of 150 delegates participated in this scientific event.