Orientation Program 2026-27

The Orientation Program for the newly admitted 37th BSc Nursing and 32nd Post Basic BSc Nursing students was conducted on 1st August 2026 at Dr. TMA Pai Hall, Manipal, to welcome the freshers and familiarise them with the academic, clinical, and hostel facilities available at the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE).

The program commenced with an invocation, creating a serene and auspicious atmosphere for the occasion. This was followed by a warm welcome addressed by Dr. Linu Sara George, Professor, Manipal College of Nursing (MCON), Manipal, who extended greetings to the dignitaries, students, and parents.

The Chief Guest, Dr. Sharath Kumar Rao K, Vice Chancellor, MAHE, addressed the gathering and emphasized the essential qualities of professional nurses, the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration among healthcare professionals, and the rapid advancements in healthcare delivery through technology and robotics. He encouraged students to embrace innovation and develop the competencies required to meet the evolving healthcare needs of society.

The Guest of Honour, Major General (Dr.) Mathews Jacob, Pro Vice Chancellor, MAHE, delivered an inspiring address on the evolution of the nursing profession, tracing its roots to Florence Nightingale’s contributions. He congratulated the students on choosing nursing as a career and on joining one of the world's leading nursing institutions, highlighting the noble nature and societal value of the profession.

An overview of the college's growth and achievements was presented by Dr. Judith A. Noronha, Dean, MCON. She briefed the students on the rules and regulations, academic facilities, learning resources available on campus, significant milestones in the institution's journey, and the strong alumni network that contributes to the global advancement of the nursing profession.

Following this, the students and their parents were addressed regarding the student-friendly environment on campus by Lt. Col. Manjunath Pai G., Chief Warden, MAHE. He highlighted hostel facilities, 24-hour security services, support systems available to students, safety measures, and guidelines on prohibited activities.

Dr. Suba Sooria, Head of Nursing Services, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, provided an overview of the hospital system and discussed the nurse-patient ratio across various clinical settings. Her session offered valuable insights into the clinical environment and professional opportunities that students would encounter during their course. She also introduced the newly established Hospice and Respite Care Centre, short-term certificate courses, a one-month training program for newly joined staff nurses, and various extracurricular activities available to nurses.

Subsequently, Dr. Poornima Panduranga Kundapura, Director of Student Affairs, MAHE, delivered an informative session on the Department of Student Affairs, outlining the various student support services, welfare initiatives, and extracurricular opportunities available within the university.

The faculty members and non-teaching staff of the college department-wise were introduced by Dr Judith A. Noronha, Dean, MCON, enabling students and parents to become acquainted with the individuals who would support them throughout their academic journey.

Dr. Vinish, SLCM Coordinator, briefed the parents on the login system for accessing students' attendance records, sessional marks, and academic notifications. Mr. Ranjith, Assistant Lecturer, MCON, MAHE, Manipal, presented the Teacher Guardian allocation list to the students and their parents.

The program concluded with an inspiring address by the Dean, who encouraged the students to pursue excellence in academics, clinical practice, and professional development, marking the beginning of an enriching educational journey at the MCON. 

In the afternoon session, orientation activities continued with document verification, uniform measurements, and distribution of pocket articles to the newly admitted students to ensure their preparedness for the commencement of academic and clinical training. The program contributed meaningfully to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education).