A Lifelong Mentor and Innovator
Effective leadership is a complex and highly valued component of healthcare education, increasingly recognised as essential to the delivery of high standards of education, research and clinical practice. To meet the needs of healthcare in the twenty-first century, competent leaders will be increasingly important across all health professions. Also in this very direction, a new type of leader is emerging: one who role models the balance between autonomy and accountability, emphasizes teamwork, and focuses on improving patient outcomes. Prof. (Dr.) U S Krishna Nayak, the Principal & Dean of A B Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences is the exact epitome of this new type of leader, getting recognized duly as a vital entry among prominent principals in higher education 2024.
From the Scratch
To understand what motivated Dr. Nayak to pursue a career in education, and also to let our readers know about his upbringing, we had a brief opportunity to interview him. Talking about his humble beginnings, Dr. Nayak shared – “I salute and thank my dear parents for making me the person I am today. As far as education is concerned my parents always held that as a priority and made sure we were given the best”. Sharing in brief about his educational curve, he added – “My early education was in the World renowned St. Aloysious Boy’s School, followed by 2 years of Pre University as well in the same Institution, and my baby steps into the Profession (BDS 1982, MDS – 1985) happened at the ‘Mecca of Education’ – Manipal”.
During our conversation, Dr. Nayak also recounted his internship at Madras Dental College in Chennai, where he considered the exposure to over a thousand patients daily as a pivotal experience. This robust foundation has been instrumental in shaping his career trajectory—from undergraduate and postgraduate studies to his roles as a clinician, academician, and presently, as an administrator.
A Journey of Dedication and Leadership
For Dr. Nayak, A B Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences is not merely a means of livelihood; it is his family. Joining as an assistant professor in 1986, Dr. Nayak was warmly welcomed into the A B Shetty family, and since then, there has been no turning back.
Over the years, at A B Shetty he has held various positions, including Assistant Professor, Reader, Associate Professor, Senior Professor, Vice Principal, and Dean Academics. Currently, he serves as the Principal and Dean and was the Head of the largest Orthodontic Department in the country.
Affectionately known as “The Boss” by his postgraduate students and colleagues, a nickname coined by Dr. Prabhat Shetty from the first batch of postgraduate students, Dr. Nayak is well-regarded for his approachable and supportive nature. His title, “Universal Boss,” reflects the deep respect and affection he has earned within the dental fraternity. He takes particular pride in the accomplishments of his students, many of whom have assumed prestigious positions, including Principals of Dental Colleges, even before he did. Under his mentorship, the Orthodontic Department at A B Shetty has produced a remarkable 284 orthodontists, a testament to the exceptional rapport and collaboration within the ABSM family.
A B Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences in a Nutshell
Established in 1985 under the Nitte Education Trust, A B Shetty Memorial has grown into a premier institution known for its commitment to quality education. Over 38 years, it has evolved from a fledgling institute to a majestic and exclusive establishment. This transformation is a testament to the visionary efforts of Justice K S Hegde and the dynamic leadership of his son, Sri Vinaya Hegde, supported by their enterprising family.
Named after the esteemed Health Minister of the erstwhile Madras Presidency, Shri Attavara Balakrishna Shetty, the institute began its journey with just 40 students in a BDS course affiliated with Mangalore University. It introduced postgraduate courses in 1989 and has since expanded its intake to 100 undergraduate and 49 postgraduate students annually across various dental specializations.
A significant milestone was the 1996 transfer of affiliation to Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, elevating the institute to a larger platform. Internationally, it is affiliated with Okayama University Dental School in Japan and recognized by the Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh, England, for training courses. The institute’s success is attributed to its capable staff, initially led by the charismatic founder Dean, Prof. Dr. N Sridhar Shetty, and now being carried forward by people like Dr. Nayak.
Bridging the Gap in Dental Research and Inspiring Future Generations
Observing the rapid advancements in the field of Dental Science globally, Dr. Nayak believes that India still lags behind in Research and Development. “Although India and Indians possess great potential, we need significant improvements in infrastructure and incentives,” he says.
Offering sincere advice to young aspiring dentists and educators, Dr. Nayak emphasizes the importance of considering work as worship. He advocates for single-minded determination, self-faith, punctuality, and a touch of compassion as key principles that can lead to long-term success in life.
Celebrated Achievements and Prestigious Honors of Dr. Nayak
All the hard work and dedication put in by Dr. Nayak towards his profession and otherwise hasn’t gone unnoticed, and as a result he has been awarded and honored with multiple titles. The honors include the highest civilian award in the state of Karnataka, the State Rajyotsava Award in 2003, the Rajiv Gandhi Award for Human Excellence, the Indian Dentist of the Year Award in 2002, the Man of the Year in Dental Health Award in 2008 by the American Biographical Institute, and the Special Recognition Award from the Asia Pacific Dental Federation in 2008.
On a Personal Note
For Dr. Nayak, music is a universal language, with his tastes ranging from soft instrumentals and ghazals to hard rock. The soothing strains of music help him relax, whether at work or at home. Among his favorite songs, “Heal the World” by Michael Jackson stands out.
Dr. Nayak proudly acknowledges that he has developed a unique, personalized bond with all his students. This bond has never hindered the disciplined functioning of the college. Instead, it has fostered a collaborative environment, ensuring the smooth execution of college activities. He maintains this bond with his former students and is available for them 24/7.
Dr. Nayak emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between attachment and indulgence. He has always upheld a disciplined approach, even when his own children, Arjun and Ekta, were studying at the college. This commitment to discipline is well-respected and recognized by all.
