Former president A P J Abdul Kalam, called upon the students to explore the possibilities of medical research and its combination with technology and engineering to achieve new heights.

Addressing a gathering of students and parents at the graduation day celebrations of the Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMC&RI) here on Friday, Kalam said: “Good teaching emanates from good research. Any university or institution is judged by the extent of the research work it accomplishes,” he said.

Drawing the attention of the students on the need for a convergence in the medical field, the former president spoke about the emerging field of nanotechnology and its application potential in health and medicine.

“Nanotechnology is the field of the future with tremendous application potential in the areas of medicine, electronics and material science. It also helps in quick diagnosis and delivery of treatment to the patients,” he said.

As many as 139 students received their graduation certificates from the former president. Vice-Chancellor of the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences K S Sriprakash, Director-cum-Dean of BMRC&RI O S Siddappa and Chairperson of Infosys Foundation Sudha Murty also addressed the gathering.

Toppers share dreams

Sharing her dreams, Akhila M V, who bagged three gold medals, expressed her desire to pursue postgraduation in surgery. She said: “I remember my Biology teacher who inspired me to chose the field. It was also my grandfather’s dream to see me as a doctor. The wish has been fulfilled today,” she added.

Srinivas Kodaganur Gopinath, another topper, is also keen on surgery. “My father is a surgeon and I am following his footsteps. It is a great day for me and my family,” he said.