Celebrating the 10th World Bioethics Day at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
The 10th World Bioethics Day was celebrated with great pride and purpose at SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST) on November 6, 2025, in collaboration with the International Chair in Bioethics. This milestone event brought together students, faculty, and professionals to reflect on this year’s theme — “Protection of Environment, The Biosphere, and Biodiversity” — inspired by Article 17 of the UNESCO Universal Declaration on Bioethics and Human Rights.
The event was guided by a strong Core Committee under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Nitin M. Nagarkar, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Medical and Health Sciences), SRMIST. An organising committee representing several colleges across SRMIST collaborated to make the celebration a success. These included:
● SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre
● SRM Kattankulathur Dental College and Hospital
● SRM College of Occupational Therapy
● SRM College of Physiotherapy
● SRM College of Nursing
● SRM College of Pharmacy
● SRM School of Public Health
● SRM College of Engineering and Technology
● SRM College of Management
● SRM School of Law
The committee held multiple internal meetings to finalise the agenda and ensure smooth coordination. The celebrations featured a wide range of student-centred competitions, drawing an impressive 258 registrations across both international and intra-university categories.
The Bioethics Fair, held on the same day, provided a vibrant platform for students to display their works — scientific posters, artistic posters, poems, and photographs, all centred on the core theme. Dr. Nitin M. Nagarkar personally visited the exhibits, engaging with students as they presented their concepts and ideas. His appreciation for their enthusiasm and creativity added immense encouragement to the participants.
Simultaneously, an intra-university cultural event showcased the artistic talents of students through dance, singing, and mime performances. A total of 106 participants took part in these offline events, with all receiving participation certificates as a token of recognition.
The formal celebration began with a welcome address by Prof. Dr. Nitin M. Nagarkar, setting an inspiring tone for the day.
● Dr. Priya Santharam, Professor and Head, Department of Microbiology, Shri Sathya Sai Medical College and Research Institute, delivered a representative speech on behalf of the collaborating professional organisation.
● Dr. Roland Panaligan, Pulmonologist, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Manila, Philippines, addressed the gathering on behalf of the International Chair in Bioethics.
● The guest lecture was delivered by Dr. Anjana Vencates, Programme Lead – Policy Research, Care Earth Trust, on “Urban Biodiversity and Conservation Organisation”, which offered deep insights into environmental ethics and conservation efforts in urban settings.
A moment of special pride came when Prof. Dr. Sangeetha Raja, Professor in the Department of Pharmacology and Organising Secretary of the Institutional Ethics Committee at SRMIST, was honoured with the “Active Member Recognition” for her valuable contributions to the field of Bioethics.
Prior to the main event, International Competitions were held on October 9, 2025, under the same theme. Categories included Artistic Poster, Poetry, Documentary, Scientific Poster, and Artistic Take. Fourteen outstanding entries from various countries were evaluated by a panel of ten experts.
The event concluded with a prize distribution ceremony, recognising the winners and active participants across all categories. The celebrations not only encouraged academic curiosity but also built awareness of the ethical dimensions of environmental protection and sustainable living.
The 10th World Bioethics Day at SRMIST was more than an academic celebration — it was a meaningful convergence of science, ethics, and creativity. Through this celebration, SRMIST reaffirmed its commitment to fostering global bioethical values, inspiring future leaders to approach healthcare, environment, and humanity with responsibility and respect.
