The 36th Awards and Annual Day of Manipal College of Nursing (MCON), Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal was held on Friday, 20 February, 2026, at Dr TMA Pai Auditorium, MAHE, Manipal.
“Nursing is not merely a profession but a true calling, forming the backbone of healthcare systems”, remarked Dr Sudhakar Kantipudi, Chief Operating Officer-MAHE Teaching Hospitals, MAHE, Manipal. Despite rapid advancements in technology, infrastructure, clinical protocols, compassion, vigilance, the human touch and care by nurses remain irreplaceable in ensuring quality patient care to enhance positive outcomes. He highlighted that quality accreditations strongly point out that nurses consistently excel in demonstrating high standards of compliance and patient-centred care.
Drawing from his personal experience, he shared how a group of newly graduated nurses transformed the quality of care in a hospital through their dedication, adaptability to adjusting to a new place and by effective communication, especially overcoming language barriers. He acknowledged the crucial role of nurses played during the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing empathy and commitment beyond expectations. He reiterated the four qualities necessary for nurses - clinical competence, compassionate patient care, professional integrity, and effective communication. He also urged nurses to build meaningful relationships with patients, as personal connection significantly enhances healing experience.
He congratulated all the awardees, motivated for consistency, character, appreciating faculty to nurture competent professionals and future leaders. Keeping the patient at the centre of care is the key to success in any healthcare profession.
Meritorious students across the various academic programs were recognized for their outstanding achievements. Ms. Suhani Chander of 2021–2025, BSc Nursing batch, was awarded the ‘Best Outgoing Student’, whereas the ‘Best B.Sc Nursing Clinical expertise’ was bagged by Sharoan Anishka D’Souza. The first rank in the BSc Nursing outgoing batch of 2025 was awarded to Ms. Neha Sreekumar. Faculty members were recognized for their exemplary teaching, contribution to research, maintaining quality and reputation of the institution. Mrs Pratibha Kamath, Assistant Professor- Senior Scale, Department of OBG Nursing and Mrs. Flavia Sharlet Noronha, Assistant Professor, Department of Mental Health (Psychiatry) Nursing received the ‘Good Teacher Award’ for the academic year 2024-2025. Dr Elsa Sanatombi Devi was the recipient of the ‘Most Accomplished Faculty Award’ for the year 2025. Dr. Anice George, Professor and Former Dean, MCON, Manipal, and Dr. Sudhakar Kantipudi, Chief Operating Officer – MAHE Teaching Hospitals, MAHE, Manipal, did the honours of presenting the awards to the awardees.
Dr. Tessy Treesa Jose, Associate Dean and Professor, Department of Psychiatric (Mental Health) Nursing, MCON, MAHE, Manipal, extended a warm welcome. Dr. Judith A Noronha, Dean, MCON, MAHE, Manipal, presented the annual report of the college, highlighting the various academic, research, and extracurricular activities undertaken by MCON throughout the year.
Mr. Renon D’Souza, President of the Student Nurses Association (SNA) of MCON, MAHE,Manipal, presented the annual SNA report, showcasing the active participation and contributions by the student body. The best outgoing student, Ms. Suhani Chander shared her experiences on the role of MCON and MAHE in shaping her career.
Mrs Ranjani P, Asst. Professor- Senior Scale, Convener of the Annual Day, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all the dignitaries, faculty members, students and attendees for their support to the success of the event.
Mr Renjulal Yesodharan, Assistant Professor and Mrs Prathibha Lydia Braggs, Lecturer, Department of Mental Health (Psychiatry) Nursing, compered the formal program, The formal function concluded with a captivating multicultural entertainment program presented by the talented students and faculty members of the college, celebrating diversity in life and Indian culture.
