The PA Sangma International Medical College (PIMC) welcomed its first MBBS batch with a grand orientation program and ‘White Coat’ ceremony at the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) Central Auditorium today.
The 14-day program marks a significant step in the region’s medical education landscape.
Padma Shri Prof. Dr. Seyed Ehtesham Hasnain, National Science Chair, IIT New Delhi, and former Vice-Chancellor of Jamia Hamdard and the University of Hyderabad were among the notable attendees.
USTM Chancellor Shri Mahbubul Hoque, USTM Vice Chancellor Prof. GD Sharma, PIMC Principal Dr. BK Das, PIMC Director of Medical Education and Research Dr. Jogesh Sharma, and Health City Hospitals Medical Director Dr. (Prof) Bhabani Prasad Chakravarty also graced the occasion. The Heads of departments, faculty, new MBBS students, and their parents and guardians actively participated in the event.
Dr Hasnain lauded the visionary efforts of Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque in fostering excellence in education. He remarked, “The beginning of PIMC is truly inspiring. If it starts this way, imagine where it will be in 5 or 10 years—it will be just amazing.” He emphasised the importance of future advancements in medical science, touching on topics such as predictive knowledge, HIV and cancer care, and the role of beneficial bacteria in human health.
He also spoke on the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in medicine while highlighting that computers can never replicate human compassion and empathy, qualities essential for healthcare professionals. Dr Hasnain encouraged students to dedicate themselves to hard work, promising, “The hard work will not go unrewarded.”
Chancellor Hoque expressed his vision for PIMC, stating, “We must think out of the box. This Medical College is poised to be very special, building on the legacy we have created at USTM. Our focus is on fostering research and innovation.”
Principal of PIMC motivated the students to be proactive, urging them to approach authorities with any concerns or suggestions. He assured them that the institution is committed to their holistic development.
Dr. Chakravarty emphasized the importance of empathy in patient care, advising the future doctors to approach every patient with sensitivity and thoroughness. “Examine first, diagnose later. Only then can you ensure proper care,” he advised.
The Vice Chancellor spoke on the holistic development of students, encouraging them to embrace challenges and seize opportunities. “Start dreaming, have a vision, and pursue it relentlessly,” he urged the new MBBS students.
Dr. Sharma oriented the students on the demanding yet rewarding journey ahead. “To become a specialist takes around 10 years, and a super specialist, 15 years. Stay dedicated to your path,” he advised.
The program also included an oath-taking ceremony to instill a sense of responsibility and commitment in the new batch.
Earlier, an academic procession starting from the PIMC Academic Block to the Central Auditorium was led by faculty members, doctors, parents, and guardians, was a grand affair as students, dressed in their white coats, embarked on their journey towards becoming healthcare professionals.
