Media Release
Mangaluru, Mar 13: Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI) marked the 184th birth anniversary of its founder, Fr Augustus Muller SJ, with a series of solemn and celebratory events at its Kankanady campus. The day was graced by Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of Mangaluru diocese and president of FMCI, who presided over the ceremonies, accompanied by Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, director, and Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, designate director. Administrators, medical superintendents, deans, heads of institutions, management committee members, faculty, and students gathered to pay tribute to the visionary founder.
A day of thanksgiving and dedication
8:00 AM – Thanksgiving Mass at St Joseph Chapel
The day commenced with a Thanksgiving Mass at St Joseph Chapel, with Dr Peter Paul Saldanha as the main celebrant. He was joined by the priests of the management. In his sermon, the bishop drew inspiration from the biblical figure Queen Esther, reflecting on her unwavering faith in God and the power of sacrifice in leadership and service.
9:15 AM – Inauguration of SagiNova Co-60 HDR Brachytherapy Unit
Following the Mass, the bishop led the blessing and commissioning of the SagiNova Co-60 Source HDR Brachytherapy Unit at the Father Muller Oncology Centre. The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked a significant advancement in cancer treatment at FMCI.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Sandesh Rao, HOD of radiation oncology, highlighted the unit’s cutting-edge German engineering, featuring a cobalt-60 source with 25 channels. He emphasized how brachytherapy delivers precise radiation doses directly to tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. The equipment also integrates real-time dose monitoring and advanced applicators for treating various malignancies, ensuring enhanced patient safety and treatment efficiency.
The emcee for the ceremony, Dr Lanisha Jolitha Sequeira, assistant professor, department of radiation oncology, welcomed Sujith, general manager of BEBig, the provider of this advanced technology.
9:30 AM – Blessing of additional floors, utility building
The event continued with the blessing and inauguration of additional floors in the Utility Building, housing the dermatology and dental OPD, audiology unit of speech and hearing, and the FMCI AV recording studio.
Dermatology OPD – A Leap into advanced aesthetic & medical care
The expanded dermatology OPD now boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure and cutting-edge treatments. Alongside expert care in medical dermatology, the new facility introduces Botox, aesthetic procedures, lasers, chemical peels, scar revision, and hair restoration services. Patients with conditions such as vitiligo, leprosy, and STDs will benefit from advanced diagnostics and dermatosurgical interventions.
Dental OPD – Upgraded infrastructure for comprehensive oral care
While an expansion of dental equipment and technology is planned for the near future, the newly allocated space enhances patient care, ensuring better accessibility and comfort.
Audiology Unit of Speech & Hearing – Meeting national standards
In line with Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) guidelines, FMCI has expanded its audiology and speech-language pathology (BASLP, MSc audiology, and MSc speech-language pathology) programs. The new infrastructure accommodates a larger student intake and offers enhanced facilities for diagnostic and rehabilitative services. Additionally, an advanced swallowing lab and vestibular (balance) unit have been introduced, strengthening FMCI’s commitment to holistic speech and hearing healthcare.
FMCI AV recording studio – A modern media hub
The newly inaugurated FMCI AV recording studio is designed as a state-of-the-art media center to support academic documentation, medical presentations, and professional content production. This sophisticated facility will serve as a vital resource for educational and institutional outreach initiatives.
Father Muller College of Pharmaceutical Sciences (FMCOPS) building inaugurated at the Deralakatte Campus
Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI) also marked the Founder’s Day, with the inauguration and blessing of the completed building of the Father Muller College of Pharmaceutical Sciences (FMCOPS) at the Deralakatte Campus.
Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of Mangalore Diocese & president of FMCI, presided over the ceremonies, joined by Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, director - FMCI, Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, designate director - FMCI & administrator - FMHMC&H, Deralakatte, along with administrators, deans, medical superintendents, MC members, and faculty.
Blessing & inaugural ceremony
The event began at 11:00 AM with the unveiling of the inaugural plaque and ribbon-cutting by the Bishop, followed by a prayer and blessing of the new FMCOPS building.
A formal gathering in the auditorium commenced with a prayer song by FMCOPS students.
Dr Satish S, principal of FMCOPS, escorted the dignitaries to the dais, which included:
Most rev Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of Mangalore Diocese & President of FMCI
Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, director, FMCI
Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, designate director – FMCI (Kankanady) & administrator - FMHMC&H & FMCOPS, Deralakatte
Fr Nelson Dheeraj Pais, administrator, FMHPD, Deralakatte
Fr Ashwin Lawrence Crasta, Asst. administrator, FMHMC&H & HPD, Deralakatte
Dr ESJ Prabhu Kiran, principal, FMHMC, Deralakatte
Dr Vilma Meera D’Souza, vice principal, FMHMC, Deralakatte
Dr Girish Navada, medical superintendent, FMHMC&H, Deralakatte
The welcome address was delivered by Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, who emphasized the significance of progress and transformation through a constant called “change”.
Director’s Message & Vision -
Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, director, FMCI, reflected on the journey of FMCOPS. Initially planned in 2017, the project was delayed due to regulatory restrictions and the pandemic. In 2023, approvals were secured, and the first academic year in 2024 commenced with 32 students. He credited Dr Padmaja Udaykumar (HOD, Pharmacology, FMMC) and the late Narayanswami for their contributions in planning and guidance in fulfilling requirements for a proper structure, and praised Dr Satish S for his efforts, groundwork, and even designing the FMCOPS logo. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo was lauded for overseeing the construction of the six-floor facility with meticulous attention to detail.
FMCI has also applied for an increase in student intake from 60 to 100 and the introduction of a Diploma in Pharmacy (D.Pharm) program.
Recognition of Contributors –
The event honored key contributors to the construction of FMCOPS:
Civil Contractor – Maxim Correa | Main Engineer – Christopher Noronha | Assistant Engineer – Kiran | Structural Engineer – Ekanatha Dandakeri | Supervisors – Ronald Pais & Richard Correa | Electrical Contractor – Maxim Crasta | Plumbing Contractor – Vincent Pinto | Aluminium Fabricator – Joy | Gas Work – Dayanandh | Furniture Work – Dolphy D’Souza | Fabrication Work – Prasad.
Presidential address
In his presidential address, r Peter Paul Saldanha emphasized FMCI’s commitment to excellence in healthcare education and service.
He praised Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho for his visionary leadership, likening his resilience, responsibility, bringing forth so much to rev Fr Augustus Muller, SJ (even by looks). He highlighted the expanding opportunities in the pharmaceutical sector and encouraged the students and staff to make advancements in research, development, and ethical medical practice.
Conclusion & Celebrations
A vote of thanks was delivered by Dr Satish S, who remarked, "Good buildings come from good people and good solutions."
The event concluded with the institutional anthem, followed by a scrumptious lunch for all attendees.
Fmith Celvia Miranda & Nishmitha Gretta D'Souza – associate professors of FMCOPS, served as emcees for the event and oversaw a smooth flow throughout the celebration.
The inauguration of Father Muller College of Pharmaceutical Sciences marks another milestone in FMCI’s dedication to education, research, and community service.
A legacy of healing and service
The 184th Founder’s Day celebrations at FMCI once again underscored the institution’s unwavering commitment to medical excellence, innovation, and compassionate care. As the institution continues to expand its services, it remains true to Fr Augustus Muller's vision—serving humanity through comfort and healing.