Dharwad, July 3, 2025
Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara University (SDM University), a beacon of excellence in health and allied sciences, hosted its Convocation Ceremony today at the D. Veerendra Heggade Kalakshetra, marking a significant milestone for 521 graduating students across its medical, dental, nursing, physiotherapy, biomedical science, and allied health programs. SDM University Convocation 2025 began with a dignified assembly of academic leaders. Among the distinguished individuals seated on the dais were:
- Poojya Shri D. Veerendra Heggade – Hon’ble Chancellor
- Dr. Bhagavan B.C. – Vice Chancellor, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences
- Dr. Niranjan Kumar – Pro Vice Chancellor
- Dr. Chidendra M. Shettar – Registrar
- Shri V. G. Prabhu – Finance Officer
- Smt. Padmalatha Niranjan – Executive Director
- Shri Saketh Shetty – Director of Administration
Beginning with the traditional assembly at Veera Kuteera, graduates and faculty—dressed in convocation robes and ceremonial pettas—proceeded in a vibrant march toward the main venue, where proud families and dignitaries awaited.
Poojya Shri D. Veerendra Heggade, Hon’ble Chancellor, presided over the ceremony, inspiring graduates with his dignified presence and thoughtful words. Emphasizing the importance of values in professional life, he reminded them, “Money shouldn’t be the consideration for your practice.”
The event was further graced by Dr. Bhagavan B. C., Vice Chancellor of Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bengaluru, who delivered an inspiring convocation address as the Chief Guest. Seizing the moment on stage, he encouraged graduates to commit themselves to serving society, to remain lifelong learners, and to embrace emerging technologies to stay relevant. Drawing from a British parliamentary observation made in 1830, he emphasized that India’s strength lies in its robust education system, and left the audience with a powerful reminder: “The future depends on what we do in the present.”
During the ceremony, the university formally conferred degrees upon 375 undergraduates and 146 postgraduates, from six constituent colleges. In a moving segment of the event, a total of 11 exceptional students were honored with Gold Medals for academic excellence.
Gold Medalists List:
- Medical PG – Dr. Anusree Vellot Sreedharan (MD in Dermatology)
- Medical UG – Dr. Arnav D. D. (Best Outgoing Student of MBBS 2019)
- Dental UG – Dr. Shruthi Shrikar
- Dental PG – Dr. Charu Sonegare (MDS in Conservative Dentistry & Endodontics)
- Physiotherapy UG – Ms. Muskhan
- Physiotherapy PG – Ms. Shreesha (MPT-Neurological & Psychosomatic Disorders)
- Nursing UG – Ms. Khairoonabi
- Nursing PG – Ms. P. Sunitha
- Biomedical Sciences PG (RIBS) – Ms. Ashkara Irfan Sayed
- Allied Health Sciences – Ms. Pallavi V. Reshmi
The convocation also featured a presentation of the University Annual Report by Registrar Dr. Chidendra M. Shettar, highlighting academic advancements, research achievements, and institutional growth over the past year.
As a gesture of unity and professional integrity, graduates took a solemn oath administered by Dr. Balaram D. Naik, pledging to uphold ethical standards in their respective fields.
The event seamlessly blended tradition with modernity, with moments like the lighting of the lamp, the invocation by students, and the stirring national anthem bringing emotional depth to an otherwise formal academic function.
Speaking to The Academic Insights, several students expressed their gratitude and optimism. “It feels surreal. The journey was tough, but today makes it all worth it,” said Dr. Charu, an MDS Postgraduate and a gold medalist, with teary eyes and a proud smile.
SDM University Dharwad Convocation 2025 concluded on a high note with a heartfelt vote of thanks, marking not just the end of the event, but the beginning of a new chapter for hundreds of future professionals stepping into the world with confidence and commitment.
