Inaugural of MStudent unit and Celebration of International Microorganisms Day

Inaugural Ceremony of the Microbiologists’ Society of India (MBSI), St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University) and Celebration of International Microorganisms Day Date & Time: 23rd September 2025, 9:00 A.M.–12:00 P.M. Venue: Saanidhya Hall, Admin Block, St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru Organized by: Department of Microbiology, St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University) in association with MBSI Programme Details The Department of Microbiology, St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University), in association with Microbiologists Society, India organized the inaugural ceremony of the MBSI Student Unit of St Aloysius on 23rd September 2025. The event marked the launch of the MBSI unit at the institution, with the objective of fostering research, spreading scientific awareness, and creating a platform for students to connect and collaborate. The event began with the master of ceremonies, Diksha, warmly welcoming the gathering, followed by an invocation song performed by the choir. The Welcome Address was delivered by Dr. Nagaraj K. Kundapura, Assistant Professor, Department of Microbiology, who also introduced the student council members. The chapter logo was unveiled, followed by the formal inauguration of the society. The inception of the society was marked with the unveiling of petri culture plates spelling ‘MBSI,’ revealed by the Chief Guest, Dr. Vidhya Pai, and Guest of Honor, Dr. Bharathi Prakash. The Chief Guest, Dr. Vidhya Pai, addressed the gathering with insightful words about the chapter and extended her heartfelt congratulations. Following this, Dr. Bharathi Prakash, State Coordinator, MBSI Karnataka Division, elaborated on the society’s activities and goals, concluding her address by gifting a calendar featuring microbiology-related articles to the Head of the Department, Dr. Vaishali Rai. The event proceeded with the Presidential Address by Dr. Hemachandra Amin, Dean, School of Life Sciences, who delivered an inspiring message, wishing success and growth for the society. Following this, Ms. Jenishiya Sequera, Student President, presented the Vote of Thanks. Dr. Hemachandra was then presented with a memento in appreciation of his 37 years of dedicated service and steadfast commitment to educating the University’s students. The inaugural ceremony concluded with a group photograph and was followed with the Key note address by Dr Vidya Pai, Chief Guest, Professor, Dept of Microbiology, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University). As Part of the International Microorganisms Day Dr. Vidhya Pai delivered the keynote address on “Antimicrobial Resistance and Surveillance.” She highlighted the growing threat of drug-resistant microbes and emphasized the urgent need for surveillance measures. The session followed by an interactive question-and-answer session with the participants. The keynote address was concluded with words of appreciation by Dr. Vaishali Rai, HOD of the Department of Microbiology and Coordinator of the event. Ms. Jenika presented the latest updates in the field of microbiology, establishing a tradition to be continued in all future MBSI St. Aloysius Chapter gatherings. The event witnessed participation from 86 students registered under the MBSI Student Unit.