“This is not the era of competition, but the era of collaboration”: Dr. Nachiketa Rout on AHS & Health Sciences Colleges Induction at SRMIST-KTR
“Healthcare is not just about knowledge and skills; it’s about compassion, resilience, and ethics,” said Dr. C. Muthamizhchelvan, Vice Chancellor of SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST), during the Induction Ceremony held at SRMIST-KTR, Kattankulathur. The event formally welcomed the incoming batch to the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences. Over 1,500 freshers from the College of Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Pharmacy, School of Public Health, and Health Sciences participated in the ceremony.
Dr. Nachiketa Rout, Director of the National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities, remarked, “This is not the era of competition, but the era of collaboration. SRMIST stands as a unique institution where students from various disciplines learn together, fostering mutual respect and understanding. Modern healthcare thrives on collaboration among doctors, therapists, pharmacists, and allied professionals. Let us nourish ourselves together, rise together, and embrace this opportunity to grow as compassionate and competent individuals.”
Dr. C. Muthamizhchelvan, Vice Chancellor, SRMIST, said, “Congratulations and warm wishes as you begin your journey with us. At SRMIST, we take immense pride in offering a diverse and enriching environment. Over 70% of our students come from outside Tamil Nadu, providing you with the opportunity to interact, collaborate, and learn beyond classrooms, across cultures, disciplines, and faculties.
We are among the top 1% of institutions in India, thanks to the collective contributions of our students, faculty, and staff. Here, you are encouraged not only to excel academically but also to innovate, engage in research, and explore entrepreneurship through our dedicated centres.
Remember, healthcare is not just about knowledge and skills; it’s about compassion, resilience, and ethics. Build meaningful connections with patients and mentors. Embrace lifelong learning, collaborate without competition, and uphold the highest standards of integrity. These qualities will shape you into not just skilled professionals, but trusted healthcare leaders of tomorrow.”
Dr. Nitin M. Nagarkar, Dean & Pro-Vice Chancellor (i/c), Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, said, “Empathetic and responsible to the diverse needs of society, you will play a crucial role in building a healthier India, and indeed, a healthier world. You are stepping into this profession at a time when the world needs resilient, innovative, and ethically grounded healthcare professionals. The path ahead is challenging but rewarding. Healthcare is not just a profession; it is a calling. You will soon be entrusted with human lives, the hopes and fears of families, and the responsibility of delivering care that heals both body and soul. Learn well, work hard, ask questions, and above all, remain humble and grounded. You are here to learn, grow, and become compassionate healthcare professionals. You will be our ambassadors and torchbearers in building a more compassionate and inclusive world.”
Dr. B. Rajashekhar, Advisor, Allied Health Sciences, SRM Medical College Hospital & Research Centre, SRMIST, shared, “Allied Health is no longer a lesser-known profession, it is now recognised, regulated, and essential to holistic healthcare. SRMIST has already fulfilled all standards of excellence, from infrastructure and hospital exposure to faculty and research, even before the national council was constituted.
You are fortunate to be part of this vibrant institution, where you will be empowered not just with skills, but with knowledge, ethics, and compassion. Opportunities in healthcare today extend far beyond hospitals, from diagnostics to research, innovation, public health, and entrepreneurship. The future demands professionals with a blend of science, skill, and empathy. SRMIST equips you, empowers you, and elevates you. Wear your SRM identity with pride. Your journey may be challenging, but it will shape you into future leaders and changemakers in healthcare.”
A special message was shared online by distinguished alumnus Dr. Jayanth Panyam, Dean of the School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, USA, reflecting on his academic journey and enduring connection with SRMIST.
The programme also featured introductions of the deans, associate deans, and senior faculty, marking the beginning of the academic year with enthusiasm and purpose.
