‘Nurses are ambassadors of the hospital, and the image of any hospital depends on the quality nursing care’ he added.  He appreciated that Manipal has set a benchmark for various educational and research activities and maintains high-quality education, which is recognized globally. He also congratulated faculty, students, and the administration for their achievements and involvement in interdisciplinary and interprofessional approaches to health care. He appreciated that since Manipal College of Nursing (MCON) offers a competency-based program with excellent standards, the students who study at MCON are very fortunate. Also, he emphasized that MCON was the first in India to start the MAHE UNB dual degree with the University of New Brunswick (UNB), Canada.

Dr. P. Giridhar Kini, Registrar, MAHE, Manipal, the Guest of Honour of the day highlighted the values of discipline and confidence in the profession of nursing. He encouraged students to take every challenge as an opportunity to grow and to be problem solvers. He congratulated students and faculty members for their achievements and wished that MCON would reach greater heights.

Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, Vice-Chancellor, MAHE, Manipal, in his presidential address, appreciated the remarkable contribution made by MCON in nursing education, clinical practice, and research. He appreciated that MCON consistently works beyond expectations. He advised that with commitment, collaboration, and teamwork, MCON provided world class excellent education and global experience. He called the graduates to uphold the values of MAHE. He acknowledged and praised the students, faculty members and support staff of MCON for their perseverance and hard work, which has contributed to the remarkable achievements of MCON.

Meritorious students across the various academic programs were recognized for their outstanding achievements. Ms. Shaina Tauro, from the BSc Nursing batch of 2020–2024, was awarded the ‘Best Outgoing Student’, and Ms. Melin Mathew secured the first rank in the BSc Nursing outgoing batch 2024.

Faculty members were also recognized for their exemplary teaching and contribution to research. Mrs. Sheela Shetty and Mrs. Ranjani P, Assistant Professors of MCON, Manipal received the ‘good teacher awards’ for the academic year 2023–24. Dr. Melita Sheilini was honored with the ‘Most Accomplished Faculty Award’ for the year 2024. Dr Edlin Glane Mathias, who completed her PhD in MCON was the recipient of the ‘Dr TMA Pai Gold Medal’ for Outstanding Research Publication. 

Dr. Tessy Treesa Jose, Associate Dean and Professor, Department of Psychiatric (Mental Health) Nursing, MCON, MAHE, Manipal, extended a warm welcome. Dr. Judith A Noronha, Dean, MCON, MAHE, Manipal, presented the annual report of the college, highlighting the various academic, research, and extracurricular activities undertaken by the students and faculty members of MCON throughout the year.

Dr Anice George, Professor and former Dean, MCON, Manipal, introduced the Chief Guest. Dr. T Dileep Kumar, President, Indian Nursing Council, was felicitated during the program for his contribution towards the nursing profession and also for the completion of his silver jubilee as the President of Indian Nursing Council (INC).

Mr. Farhan Abdulla, President of the Student Nurses Association (SNA) of MCON, MAHE, and Manipal, presented the annual SNA report, outlining the activities and achievements of the SNA during the academic year 2023-24.

The best outgoing student, Ms. Shaina Tauro, reflected on her journey at MCON, sharing how the institution has shaped her career, leadership qualities, and character.

Dr. Jeyalakshmi, Asst. Professor and convener of the Annual Day proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the organizers and all attendees for their support as well as their contribution to the success of the event.

Dr. Sonia R. B. D’Souza, Professor & HOD, Department of Obstetrical and Gynaecological (OBG) Nursing, compered the formal program, guiding the audience through the proceedings of the program.

The formal function continued with a captivating cultural entertainment program presented by the talented students and faculty members of MCON, celebrating the diversity in culture and emphasizing the creativity of the MCON community.