India leads the way in innovation across various fields, including engineering and medicine. When it comes to dentistry, the country is equally advanced, particularly in educating future dental professionals. Despite India having a mushrooming number of dental colleges and institutes, only a few actually live up to the expectation of contributing towards the society. In this pursuit, Yogita Dental College & Hospital clearly distinguishes itself as the first dental college in the Konkan region.
Yogita Dental College Hospital in a Nutshell
Operating under the aegis of Shivtej Arogya Seva Sanstha, Yogita Dental College and Hospital stands as a beacon of excellence in dental education and patient care. As the sole dental college in the Konkan Region, it is renowned for its innovative teaching methods and strong emphasis on research, offering a wide range of specialized dental education and treatment services.
Founded by Mr. Ramdas Bhai Kadam, Yogita Dental College and Hospital has achieved numerous milestones and accolades under the guidance of Dean Dr. Varsha Jadhav, CEO Dr. Hemangi Pol, and a dedicated team of faculty members. The institution has made significant strides in academic excellence, research, and community service, earning NAAC accreditation.
Since launching its Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) program in 2008, the college has been recognized by the Dental Council of India to offer five Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) specialties and two PhD programs. In the near future, the institution plans to expand its offerings to include MDS in two additional units.
Promoting Holistic Student Well-Being and Cultural Engagement
Yogita Dental College and Hospital is dedicated to fostering the overall growth and well-being of its students by offering a comprehensive range of support services. One such initiative includes providing gym subscriptions and yoga training, ensuring that students have access to state-of-the-art fitness equipment to maintain a healthy lifestyle, which is essential for their physical and mental well-being.
Beyond promoting physical wellness, the institution places a strong emphasis on celebrating various festivals throughout the academic year. These celebrations not only mark important cultural occasions but also play a vital role in building a vibrant and inclusive community. Through these festive events, students can engage with diverse traditions, develop a sense of camaraderie, and enhance their cultural awareness.
Commitment to Faculty Excellence and Development
Yogita Dental College and Hospital adheres to the hiring guidelines prescribed by the university and the Dental Council of India (DCI), ensuring that all faculty members are highly qualified and supported in their personal and professional development. The institution provides free accommodation and basic facilities, along with various opportunities such as faculty development programs, financial management training, workshops, and many other teacher training initiatives.
A Thriving Hub of Research and Innovation
Known for its robust research culture, at Yogita Dental College & Hospital, it’s compulsory for postgraduate students to participate in research as part of their curriculum. The institution also encourages faculty and undergraduate students to engage in research activities, contribute to scholarly writing, and secure patents. Over the past five years, the faculty and students have authored over 400 publications and secured 12 patents and copyrights. To support these efforts, the college has established MOUs with various research centers and laboratories, allowing staff and students to conduct research experiments at subsidized costs or, in some cases, with funding.
In the Days to Come
Yogita Dental College and Hospital envisions a future where advanced technology, interdisciplinary approaches, and a strong focus on preventive care are integral to its curriculum. The institution aims to continuously enhance the quality of dental education and patient care, ensuring that its students are thoroughly prepared to meet the evolving challenges of the dental profession. Committed to its mission, the college strives to produce skilled dental professionals capable of addressing the oral healthcare needs of both rural and urban communities with competence and compassion.
Dr. Varsha Jadhav – Principal
Dr. Varsha Jadhav’s journey in dentistry and academics is deeply rooted in her passion for science and her commitment to community service. Born in Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra, her early fascination with science and desire to make a difference led her to graduate and complete her post-graduation at Nair Hospital and Dental College, Mumbai, in 1995. Driven by her dedication to her community, Dr. Jadhav established a clinic in her hometown, providing care to the people she grew up with. Her path then led her to academia, where she discovered a new calling in education and mentorship. This passion for teaching and guiding the next generation of dental professionals eventually brought her to Yogita Dental College and Hospital, near her hometown, where she proudly serves as the Principal and Dean.