Pics: Nithin Pereira
Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (NP)
Udupi, March 14: The Lombard Memorial Hospital (LMH) Group of Institutions, Udupi, celebrated its graduation ceremony and annual day at the LMH Multi-purpose Hall on March 14.
The programme began with the graduation march, followed by the inauguration through the traditional lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries.
Dr Deepa Rao, deputy director of the CSI Lombard Memorial Hospital Group of Institutions, said, “We are very proud that you have graduated with flying colours and are stepping into a new professional life. Remember that you are entering a healthcare system that demands care and responsibility. Today you have taken an oath to remain committed and not to discriminate among patients. Every day will be a learning experience, and you must continue learning from your patients and keep yourself updated in your profession. The lives of patients will be in your hands, and any mistake can affect their wellbeing. This profession is not just a job but a great responsibility. We are also proud that your parents chose this college and the noble profession of healthcare for you. Congratulations and best wishes for a successful future.”
Hemachandra Kumar, Bishop of CSI Karnataka Southern Diocese, in his introductory address said, “Today we are celebrating the third convocation, which is a very special occasion. Graduation is an important milestone in life. Before joining this college, many of you had the dream of earning a degree and choosing the right institution. After graduation, your mindset changes as you realise the responsibility you carry in the medical field to serve society. Our motto is to serve people without any discrimination. Students should remember that there is no difference between rich or poor, or big or small diseases; all patients must be treated equally. Service in the medical field is extremely important. During the COVID-19 pandemic, only three sectors stood strongly for the nation – the army, the medical field and the farmers. Lombard is shaping future leaders who will serve society, and we must appreciate the teachers who have guided and prepared these leaders of tomorrow.”
Dr Sushil Jathanna, director of LMH, in his presidential address said, “I welcome the proud graduates, proud parents and dedicated faculty who have worked hard in shaping you over the past few years. Today is truly a day of celebration. While we feel emotional seeing you leave, we are proud to see you graduate and step out into the world to serve people. When you joined this institution, you came with a goal to learn and graduate, and today that moment has arrived. Your degree will give you the licence to practise, but learning must continue throughout your life. Your days here included happiness, challenges and difficulties during your training, but those experiences will guide you in the future. The teachers have moulded you into responsible professionals, and I thank your parents for placing their trust in our institution. Students, always have a purpose in life and dream big. Now that you are qualified to practise, keep the spirit of your profession alive and never miss the opportunities that come your way.”
Convocation certificates, medals and mementoes were distributed to the graduates by the dignitaries on the occasion. Merit awards were also presented to outstanding students.
The programme began with a prayer by Kishore Kumar and an invocation by the BSc Nursing students. The college magazine was also released during the event.
Dr Suja Karkada, principal of LMCON, presented the annual report, while Biju S, vice-principal of the College of Nursing, administered the oath to the graduates. Graduates Cerena, Evangelin, Aliya and Linta shared their experiences on the occasion.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Leona Strelita, human resource manager of LMH. Rohini Shenoy and Preena Maria Corda compered the event.
Dr Suja Karkada, principal of LMCON; Veena Menezes, principal of LMSON; Dr Roshan Pai, principal of LMAHS; Ivan D Soans, treasurer of CSI KSD, along with graduates, faculty members, staff, students and parents, were present.