Father Muller College Launches 20th BASLP Batch, 7th PG Batches & First Ph.D. Programme in Speech-Language Pathology

Date : Jul 20, 2026

Father Muller College, a unit of Father Muller Charitable Institutions, inaugurated the 20th Batch of the Bachelor in Audiology and Speech Language Pathology (BASLP), the 7th Batch of M.Sc. Audiology and M.Sc. Speech Language Pathology, and the 1st Batch of Ph.D. (Speech Language Pathology) for the academic year 2026–2027 on 20th July 2026 at the Decennial Memorial Hall, Knowledge Centre. The programme was attended by dignitaries, faculty members, students, parents, alumni, and well-wishers. The occasion also marked the Vicennial Opening Year (2007–2027), celebrating 20 years of excellence in Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences.

The programme commenced with the arrival of the dignitaries, followed by an invocation seeking God's blessings for the new academic year. Prof. Cynthia Santhmayor, Principal, welcomed the gathering and extended a warm greeting to the newly admitted students and their families. The ceremonial lighting of the lamp symbolized the beginning of a new academic journey.

The Vicennial Opening Year (2007–2027) was formally inaugurated by Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director, Father Muller Charitable Institutions, together with the dignitaries through a ceremonial click of a digital button. This symbolic gesture triggered a specially designed animation depicting the opening of grand curtains, officially unveiling the Vicennial celebrations and marking the commencement of the institution's twentieth year. This was followed by a commemorative audiovisual presentation that beautifully portrayed the 20-year journey of Father Muller College of Speech and Hearing, showcasing its milestones in academic excellence, clinical services, research, community outreach, and its evolution from offering undergraduate education to postgraduate programmes and the inauguration of its first Ph.D. programme in Speech Language Pathology.

The Chief Guest, Dr. Ronald Acquin Nazareth, Registrar, St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University), delivered an inspiring address centered on the values of compassion, perseverance, integrity, and professional etiquette. Through a series of thought-provoking anecdotes, he encouraged students to embrace their profession with humility and a genuine desire to serve others. Recalling the life of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, he narrated how Dr. Kalam regarded the development of lightweight calipers (by adapting advanced aerospace composite materials to create lightweight orthotic devices) for children affected by polio as one of his most fulfilling achievements, surpassing even his celebrated contributions to India's missile programme. The Chief Guest urged the students to remember that knowledge attains its highest purpose when used with empathy, compassion, and a commitment to the welfare of society.

As a token of gratitude, the Chief Guest was felicitated with a memento by Rev. Fr. George Jeevan Sequeira, Administrator, Father Muller Medical College Hospital.

In his Presidential Address, Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director, Father Muller Charitable Institutions, warmly welcomed the students into the Mullerian family and reflected on the remarkable journey of Father Muller College over the past two decades. He highlighted the institution's continued growth in academics, clinical service, research, and community outreach, culminating in the commencement of its first Ph.D. programme in Speech Language Pathology. He encouraged students to pursue holistic development while remaining rooted in the values of compassion, discipline, ethical practice, and service to humanity.

Mr. Pancham Ponnana, Associate Professor – Audiology, proposed the Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to the dignitaries, management, faculty members, parents, students, the organizing committee, volunteers, and everyone who contributed to the successful conduct of the programme. The formal inaugural session concluded with the Institutional Anthem.

Following refreshments, the Orientation Session commenced with the screening of the documentary on the journey of Father Muller College of Speech and Hearing. The newly admitted students then introduced themselves before receiving a welcome rose, academic calendar, and course syllabus, marking the beginning of their journey at Father Muller College.

The orientation programme continued with sessions on the institution's rules and regulations, course guidelines, hostel life, and spiritual life. Prof. Cynthia Santhmayor briefed the students on academic expectations and course regulations, Sr. Hilda Ferrao, Warden of Ave Maria Hostel, outlined the hostel guidelines, and Rev. Fr. John Vas, Chaplain of FMCI, shared insights on spiritual life and value-based living within the institution. Simultaneously, a Parent-Teacher Meeting was conducted for the parents and students of the Second and Third Year BASLP, providing an opportunity for meaningful interaction with faculty members regarding academic progress, mentorship, and future learning strategies.

The programme concluded with the National Anthem, marking the beginning of another academic year dedicated to excellence in education, compassionate clinical service, ethical practice, and research.

The programme was compered by Ms. Melicia Shainy D'Souza, Speech Language Pathologist Grade I, and Ms. Hadline Rechael Noronha, Audiologist Grade I, who conducted the proceedings with poise and professionalism.

The event was co-ordinated by Mr Pancham Ponnana, Associate Professor – Audiology.