Mohan Kuthar
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Oct 15: The white coat symbolises responsibility and humanitarian service in the medical profession, and medical students must pledge to serve patients with dedication while upholding human values, said Dr Benazir Amir Ali, head of medical tourism at Thumbay Healthcare and an alumna of Yenepoya Medical College, Deralakatte.
She was speaking at the White Coat Ceremony for the MBBS 2026 batch held at the Endurance Auditorium on the Yenepoya Medical College campus on Thursday.
Dr Benazir urged students to make effective use of technology without losing the willingness to learn. While artificial intelligence, Google and other modern technologies could support their education, she stressed the importance of humility and continuous learning.
She highlighted the need for ethics and integrity in the medical profession, urging students to protect patient confidentiality, maintain trust and uphold professional values.
She also acknowledged the sacrifices made by parents to support their children's medical education, including financial, emotional and personal commitments. She encouraged parents to continue supporting their children through the demanding years ahead.
Describing the five years of medical education as challenging yet valuable, she said students would gain meaningful friendships, experiences and the satisfaction of serving others despite rigorous studies, examinations and sleepless nights.
Speaking virtually, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University) chancellor Dr Yenepoya Abdulla Kunhi highlighted the institution's growth and achievements since 2002. He credited the dedicated teaching and non-teaching staff for helping the institution earn international recognition.
He encouraged students to make the best use of the institution's modern infrastructure and academic environment, while giving equal importance to professional excellence and human values.
Vice-chancellor Dr K S Gangadhara Somayaji said Yenepoya Medical College had the potential to emerge as a globally recognised centre for medical education and research. He highlighted the institution's commitment to innovation and scientific advancement in areas such as medical research, advanced clinical training and robotic surgery.
Reflecting on the evolution of medical education, he said reforms introduced by the Medical Council of India had helped streamline the education system.
Former vice-chancellor Dr M Vijay Kumar advised students to remain disciplined and cautious about distractions while adjusting to a new environment away from direct family guidance. He warned that momentary temptations could divert them from their long-term goals and urged them to make mature decisions and prioritise their ambitions.
He also asked parents to understand the demands of medical education and support their children's academic commitments instead of expecting them to return home for every festival or family function.
Registrar Dr R Ashwini Dutt and Prof Dr Akhtar Hussain, secretary of the Islamic Academy of Education and a member of the Yenepoya Group, attended the ceremony as guests of honour. Controller of Examinations Dr B T Nandeesh, dean of student affairs Dr Maji Jose and finance officer Ameer Bawa Ahmed were also present.
Dean of Yenepoya Medical College Dr Prakash Saldanha welcomed the gathering, while vice-principal Dr Abhay Nirgude introduced the Yenepoya institution. Medical superintendent Dr Habeeb Rahman administered the pledge, and Dr Shaheena Yassir proposed the vote of thanks.
During the ceremony, faculty members and representatives of the college management donned white coats on the new batch of medical students, marking the beginning of their medical education journey.