Media Release
Mangaluru, Oct 21: The Department of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Mangaluru, under the aegis of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), successfully hosted HEARCON 2025- a national conference on hearing and balance sciences on October 16-17 at KMC Marena, Attavar.
Themed ‘Where Hearing Meets Balance’, the RCI-accredited Continuing Rehabilitation Education (CRE) program brought together over 250 delegates from across the country. The two-day event featured sessions by nine distinguished speakers and 34 oral paper presentations by students, clinicians and researchers. The conference provided a platform for a rich academic exchange and showcasing emerging innovations in audiology and speech-language pathology.
Dr Kaushlendra Kumar, professor and head of the department, served as the organizing chairperson, and Dr Rohit Ravi, associate professor, led the event as the organizing secretary. Their leadership, supported by the faculty and student team, ensured the conference’s seamless execution.
The conference was inaugurated by Dr Suman Kumar, director, Ali Yavar Jung National Institute of Speech and Hearing Disabilities (Divyangjan), Mumbai, as the chief guest, and Dr B Unnikrishnan, dean, KMC Mangalore, as the guest of honour. The inaugural ceremony was attended by dignitaries, faculty members, and delegates from reputed institutions across India. Dr Suman Kumar was felicitated for his achievements and contributions to the field. The valedictory ceremony was graced by Dr Chakrapani M, medical superintendent, KMC Hospital, Attavar. The highlight of the valedictory event was the felicitation of Dr B Rajashekhar, a pioneering figure in the field of speech and hearing, for his outstanding contributions. The Best Paper Awards recognized exemplary research presented during the conference.
In his closing remarks, Dr Rohit Ravi extended heartfelt gratitude to all delegates, speakers, sponsors, and organizing members for their collective efforts in making HEARCON 2025 a resounding success. The event was supported by MAHE, Aanvi Hearing, Sandesh Enterprises, Auditivo Hearing, and GN Resound.
The conference concluded on an inspiring note, reinforcing the shared commitment to advancing hearing and balance sciences in India.