Media Release
Udupi, May 2: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, welcomed Dr K Sharath Rao as the 8th vice chancellor, marking a new chapter in the institution’s leadership. His appointment, which was announced in March, comes at a significant moment in MAHE’s academic journey. A distinguished orthopaedic surgeon Dr Rao brings with him deep clinical insight and a four decade long extensive experience in academic administration.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to medical leadership and healthcare management, Dr Rao was awarded the Honorary Fellowship (FRCP) by the Royal College of Physicians, London, on July 8, 2025.
Dr Rao joined MAHE in 1988 as an assistant lecturer in the department of orthopaedics at KMC Manipal. A KMC Mangaluru alumnus, he holds an MBBS from the University of Mysore and DOrtho and MS degrees in orthopaedics from Mangalore University.
Over the years, Dr Rao has held several key leadership roles across MAHE’s health sciences institutions. His appointments include head of Unit V, department of orthopaedics, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal (since 2000); head of the department of orthopaedics, KMC Manipal (2009–2014); associate dean, KMC Manipal (2015–2019); dean, KMC Manipal (2019); and pro vice chancellor (Health Sciences) from 2023.
In his tenure as pro vice chancellor, Dr Rao provided strategic leadership to MAHE’s health sciences institutions, research, strengthening academic governance, promoting clinical integration, and advancing the quality of healthcare delivery. His appointment as vice chancellor marks a continuation of MAHE’s commitment to academic excellence, institutional growth, and global engagement.
Widely respected in the medical fraternity, Dr Rao is recognised for his expertise in complex trauma, joint replacement, and knee arthroscopy. He has held several prominent positions in professional organisations, including serving as president of the Karnataka Orthopaedic Association and president of the Orthopaedic Association of South Indian States (OASIS). He has also served as chairman of AO Trauma India, contributing significantly to the advancement of orthopaedic practice and education.
Dr Rao’s academic contributions are significant, with over 100 publications in peer-reviewed journals, several textbook chapters, and extensive international academic engagements. He has delivered lectures and conducted workshops across Europe, the United States, South America, Southeast Asia, Korea, Australia, and New Zealand, strengthening global collaboration in medical education and orthopaedic practice.
Congratulating Dr Sharath K Rao on his appointment Dr Ranjan R Pai, president, MAHE Trust, and chairman, Manipal Education and Medical Group, said, “His deep institutional knowledge, inclusive leadership, and commitment to excellence will be instrumental in guiding MAHE forward. I am confident that under his stewardship, MAHE will continue to strengthen its position as a globally reputed institution of higher education.”
Welcoming the appointment, Dr H S Ballal, pro chancellor, MAHE, said, “Dr Sharath Rao’s appointment as vice chancellor reflects MAHE’s commitment to strong academic leadership and continuity of institutional values. His deep understanding of the institution and his distinguished contributions to healthcare and education will help further strengthen MAHE’s standing as a leading global university.”
Sharing his vision, Dr Sharath K Rao said, “I am deeply honoured to take on the responsibility of leading MAHE, an institution that has been integral to my personal and professional journey. I look forward to building on the strong foundation laid by my predecessors and working closely with our faculty, students, and partners to further enhance excellence in education, research, and healthcare, while expanding our global engagement and societal impact.”
Dr Rao succeeds Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), who has served as the 7th vice- chancellor since July 1, 2020. Reflecting on his tenure, Dr Venkatesh said, “It has been a privilege to serve MAHE during a period of significant growth and transformation. I am proud of the collective progress we have made in strengthening academic excellence, advancing research, and expanding our global footprint. I extend my best wishes to Dr Sharath K Rao as he takes forward the institution’s legacy to greater heights.”
As Manipal Academy of Higher Education enters a new phase under Dr Sharath Rao’s leadership, the university remains committed to advancing its legacy of excellence in education, research, healthcare, and societal engagement, while further strengthening its national and global reputation.