Sri Ramakrishna Dental College and Hospital (SRDCH) celebrated its 21st Graduation Day today for the 2020-25 batch at SNR Kalaiarangam.

The chief guest, Dr. Gopalakrishnan Dharmarajan, Dean of Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal, presented degrees to 80 BDS graduates and 12 MDS postgraduates, in the presence of Sundar Ramakrishnan, Managing Trustee of SNR Sons Charitable Trust, and Srihari, Principal of the college.

The Principal, in his welcome address, encouraged the graduands to apply the knowledge they had acquired as a foundation for continuous learning.

He also appreciated the faculty members, families, and parents of the graduates for the vital role they played in helping the students reach this milestone. He told the graduates that the day marked the beginning of a new journey built on years of hard work and dedication.

We will incorporate many developments in coming days

-Sundar Ramakrishnan, Managing Trustee of SNR Sons Charitable Trust

In his presidential address, the Managing Trustee congratulated the graduands and medalists and emphasised the importance of undergraduate training in preparing them to reach out and serve society effectively.

He proudly noted that the college has completed 25 years of service. Speaking about future plans, he said, “We would like to incorporate many new developments in our dental college, such as precision dentistry and modern machinery. We are already up to date with the facilities we have now, and going forward, we aim to be the best in this part of the region.”

He further stated that the college is the only dental college located within a city in Tamil Nadu, which he described as a significant advantage.

Addressing the graduates, he urged them to be responsible in their profession, as people from all walks of life would come to them seeking treatment and relief from their problems. He encouraged them to remain connected with the institution, interact with the faculty, and support future students even as they pursue their careers.

Thanking the parents, he expressed his gratitude for their trust in the institution and said, “We believe that we have fulfilled your dreams.” He also congratulated the faculty members and doctors for their efforts in helping the college reach a leading position.

Stay humble and keep learning

-Dr. Gopalakrishnan, Dean, Manipal College of Dental Sciences

The Chief Guest, Dr. Gopalakrishnan, delivered the Graduation Day address and congratulated the graduates on their achievement. Addressing the students, he said, “Your degree is not just a qualification; it is a commitment to serve humanity. Your journey has been filled with hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Cherish the memories, friendships, and the knowledge you gained here.”

He further noted that life is not always a straight path and that it would have many twists and turns. “It is how you navigate the journey that matters. Take time to pause, look around, and appreciate the beauty of the journey. Stay humble and keep learning,” he advised.

Speaking to the parents and faculty members, he acknowledged their crucial role in guiding and shaping the graduates into the professionals they have become today.

Concluding his address, he encouraged the graduates to be compassionate and responsible in their profession. “Be the change you want to see in the world. Be kind, remain compassionate, and always put your patients first,” he said, adding that they should also strive to be responsible and good citizens.

Gold Medalists

During the ceremony, the highest scorers from nine departments were honoured with the SRDCH gold medals and certificates by the Chief Guest.

Dr. Sindhoora secured three gold medals, including the SRDCH Gold Medal in Orthodontics, Oral Surgery, and Public Health Dentistry. She also received the SRDCH Alumni Gold Medal for Best Outgoing Student. In addition, she was awarded two endowment cash prizes — the Dr. Lakshmi Jayakrishnan Endowment Cash Prize and the Dr. Veerabahu Ida Endowment Cash Prize.

Boomica received the Gold Medal in Prosthodontics and Crown & Bridge, while Prabha was awarded the Gold Medal in Orthodontics.

Aishwarya won the Gold Medal in Oral Medicine and Conservative Dentistry and also received the Smt. B. Saradhamani Endowment Cash Prize.

Meerashankar secured Gold Medals in Pediatric Dentistry, Periodontics, and Oral Pathology. She also received the Dr. J. Dinakar Endowment Cash Prize and the P. R. Ramaswami Naidu Endowment Cash Prize.

Later, the Vice Principal, Dr. Sidra Banu, administered the oath to the graduates. Heads of the SNR Sons Charitable Trust and hospital, faculty members, and parents were present at the ceremony.