Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 12: The Father Muller College of Nursing (FMCON) took a momentous step towards fostering research and innovation with the inaugural ceremony of its Student Research Club, held on September 11, in the Rajath Bhavan of FMCON. The event, presided over by Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI), was graced by distinguished guests including Dr Sanjeev Rai, former head of the Father Muller Research Centre (FMRC), and guest of honour Dr Ramesh Bhat M, current head of FMRC.
The ceremony commenced with a prayerful song led by the students of FMCON, setting a serene tone for the event. Muriel Hansil, a third-year BSc Nursing student, eloquently emceed the programme, ensuring a smooth flow of proceedings. Oscheal Serrao, president of the Student Research Club (SRC), welcomed the audience and introduced the esteemed guests, expressing excitement for the club’s potential to inspire and guide student-driven research.
The highlight of the event was the official inauguration of the Student Research Club, marked by the unveiling of its logo. This was a collaborative effort, joined by key figures such as Dr Agnes EJ, Dr Shiji PJ, Sandra Saldanha, Dr Aninesh Jain (external research cell member), Chris Monteiro, Dr Shycil Mathew chairperson of SRC and Dr Shivshankar (professor of biochemistry). The newly revealed logo symbolized the club’s vision of boundless knowledge and the pursuit of translational research that benefits the wider community.
Dr Ramesh Bhat delivered a powerful keynote address, emphasizing that research knows no boundaries. He encouraged students to think critically and translate their findings into practical solutions, stating, “From project to product to community, research is a beacon for those who suffer.” Dr Bhat urged the students to share knowledge freely and use research as a tool to bring tangible improvements to healthcare.
The first edition of the Student Research Club’s bulletin, research spring, was also released during the ceremony. This biannual bulletin, covering insights from January to June 2024, was edited by Dr Premila D’Souza and offered a glimpse into the pioneering research conducted by students and faculty at FMCON. The bulletin's name was selected through a contest, with Royston D’Silva, a fourth-year BSc Nursing student, emerged as the winner.
Dr Sanjeev Rai, in his chief guest address, commended the formation of the Student Research Club, remarking, "Research makes you a better student. Observations make a difference, not just instruments." He emphasized the vital role of nurses in research, as they are closely connected to patient care, making their observations and insights invaluable to medical advancements. He encouraged students to pursue research at their own pace, reminding them that even mistakes can lead to breakthroughs that benefit humanity.
The event also celebrated creative contributions, with Prof Helen Claret D’Souza having designed the best logo for SRC and Palome Mariola from St Agnes College was recognized as the artist behind the club's logo, with Dr Janet Dotty serving as the contest judge.
In his presidential address, Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho praised the students for their initiative, urging them to approach research with passion and dedication. “Membership in the club is just the beginning,” he stated. “With hard work, innovation, and a commitment to excellence, you will see the fruits of your research benefit society.”
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks by Prithesh Moras, secretary of the SRC, expressing gratitude to all attendees and contributors. The establishment of the Student Research Club at FMCON marks a new chapter in the college’s pursuit of academic and practical excellence, empowering nursing students to contribute meaningfully to the world of healthcare research.