Media Release

Mangaluru, Aug 26: A dual celebration unfolded at Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI) as they felicitated Prof Dr U T Ifthikar Fareed, chairman of the Karnataka State Allied & Healthcare Council, while simultaneously commemorating 30 years of excellence in physiotherapy at the Father Muller College of Physiotherapy. The event took place on Monday August 26 at the Father Muller Convention Centre.

The ceremony began with a warm welcome from Aishwarya Gatty, the organizing secretary. The prayer song was beautifully performed by the students' choir of the Father Muller College of Physiotherapy, setting a reverent tone for the occasion.

The lighting of the lamp followed, symbolizing the beginning of the dual celebration. Prof Cherishma D’Silva, principal of Father Muller College of Physiotherapy (FMCOP), introduced the chief guest, Prof Dr U T Ifthikar Fareed, highlighting his contributions to the allied health sciences sector and his leadership in advancing healthcare across Karnataka.

The felicitation ceremony for Prof Dr U T Ifthikar Fareed was a moment of pride for the institution, recognizing his unwavering commitment and leadership. He addressed the gathering, sharing his experiences and vision for the future of healthcare in Karnataka, while acknowledging the vital role played by institutions like FMCI in shaping healthcare professionals.

Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, director of FMCI, delivered the presidential address, praising the achievements of the College of Physiotherapy and expressing his gratitude to Prof Dr Ifthikar Fareed for his contributions to the field. He emphasized the institution's ongoing commitment to excellence in healthcare education and patient care.

The event also marked the inauguration of a two-day workshop titled Physical Fitness: Assessment and Exercise Prescription, led by Dr Sundar Kumar Velusamy (PT, PhD), associate professor at M S Ramaiah College of Physiotherapy. The workshop aims to enhance the skills of physiotherapy professionals in the areas of fitness assessment and exercise prescription, reflecting FMCOP's dedication to advancing physiotherapy practices.

Dignitaries present on the dais included Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, director designate FMCI and administrator FMHMC&H; Fr Ajith B Menezes, administrator FMMC/FMCOAHS/FMCOP; Fr Sylvester Vincent Lobo, administrator FMHT; Dr Anthony Sylvan D'Souza, dean FMMC; Dr Hilda Fernandes, principal FMCOAHS; and Prof Cherishma D’Silva, principal FMCOP.

The event concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by Sheetal V Pai, assistant professor in the department of physiotherapy, expressing gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the event.

The dual celebration not only honoured a distinguished leader in healthcare but also reflected Father Muller College of Physiotherapy's rich legacy of 30 years, continuing to pave the way for future advancements in physiotherapy and healthcare.