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Manipal, June 3rd, 2023 - The Department of Medical Genetics at Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, proudly inaugurated its new facility, which will serve as a centre for education, research, and patient care. The 12,000-square-foot facility exemplifies the department’s dedication to academic excellence and innovation in medical genetics. 

The department offers specialised programmes such as the DM (Medical Genetics), MSc (Genetic Counselling), and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. The Genetic Counselling MSc curriculum is the first of its kind in India, enabling genetic counsellors to work together with clinical geneticists and scientists.

The facility contains a diagnostic laboratory for timely and accurate diagnoses. In addition, it offers genetic counselling for reproductive options and prenatal diagnosis to assist families confronting genetic challenges. Collaborations with clinicians and scientists, as well as cutting-edge techniques in molecular genetics, cell biology, bioinformatics, and perinatal genetics, support the department’s research. 

Prof. Anju Shukla, Head of the Department of Medical Genetics, stated, "We are thrilled to announce the opening of our new department space, which represents our unwavering dedication to academic excellence and innovation." This facility will cultivate an environment in which our students can flourish, our faculty can conduct collaborative studies, and members of the community can share knowledge and ideas. 

Dr. Sharath Rao, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Health Sciences) of MAHE, spoke about the department’s humble beginnings at the Central Research Lab and complimented its rapid development in research, teaching, and patient care. He emphasised that the new facility would boost the department, driving it to even greater heights. 

The Vice Chancellor of MAHE, Lt Col Dr. M D Venkatesh, also addressed the students, faculty, and staff, encouraging them to utilise this state-of-the-art facility to improve research, teaching, and development outcomes. He expressed confidence in the department’s capacity to promote university-wide growth and development. 

Dr. Padmaraj Hegde, dean of KMC Manipal, expressed his gratitude on the occasion, stating, "The inauguration of the Department of Medical Genetics represents a significant milestone in our pursuit of healthcare and research excellence. This new facility will enable our faculty and students to widen their horizons and advance the field of medical genetics." 

*Dr. Padmaraj Hegde 

 Dean – Kasturba Medical College, Manipal*