Manipal, Karnataka: In a moment of pride for the medical fraternity and academic community, the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) felicitated two of its distinguished faculty members, Dr B Unnikrishnan and Dr Shiran Shetty, for being conferred the prestigious Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh (FRCP Edin), one of the most respected professional distinctions in global medicine.
The special felicitation ceremony was held in Manipal on June 9 to honour the remarkable achievements and contributions of both physicians in the fields of medical education, research, public health, and clinical practice.
Prestigious International Recognition
Dr B Unnikrishnan, Dean and Professor in the Department of Community Medicine at Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Mangalore, and Dr Shiran Shetty, Professor and Unit Head of the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at KMC Manipal and Deputy Medical Superintendent of Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, were recently elected as Fellows of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh.
The FRCP Edinburgh fellowship is awarded to physicians who have demonstrated excellence and made significant contributions to medicine, healthcare, research, medical education, and public health at national and international levels.
Dr B Unnikrishnan’s Contributions to Public Health and Research
Dr B Unnikrishnan completed his MBBS from Pt. J.N.M. Medical College, Raipur, and earned his MD in Community Medicine from Kasturba Medical College, Manipal. He began his academic career as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Community Medicine at KMC Mangalore.
Over the years, he has played a pivotal role in promoting research among medical students by introducing structured mentorship programmes and integrating research into the medical education curriculum. His work in epidemiology, preventive medicine, and public health research has earned widespread recognition.
Dr Unnikrishnan is currently collaborating with leading national and international organisations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and the Global Burden of Disease Network, contributing evidence-based research that supports healthcare policy decisions.
Dr Shiran Shetty Recognised for Clinical Excellence and Leadership
Dr Shiran Shetty completed his MBBS from Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute and has been serving as a Professor at KMC Manipal since January 2019. He assumed the role of Deputy Medical Superintendent at Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, in February 2023.
A renowned gastroenterologist and hepatologist, Dr Shetty has gained valuable international experience through an Advanced Endoscopic Fellowship at Ordensklinikum Elisabethinen Hospital in Austria and a Clinical Visiting Fellowship at Queen Mary Hospital in Hong Kong.
His contributions to patient care, medical education, clinical research, and hospital administration have established him as a respected figure in the healthcare sector.
MAHE Leadership Applauds Achievement
Congratulating the awardees, Dr H S Ballal, Pro Chancellor of MAHE, said that the recognition reflects the doctors’ dedication, professionalism, and commitment to excellence while bringing pride to the institution.
Vice Chancellor Dr Sharath K Rao described the honour as a recognition of sustained excellence and significant contributions to medicine, stating that both physicians exemplify the academic and professional values upheld by MAHE.
The felicitation ceremony was attended by senior university officials and faculty members. Dr Dilip G Naik, Pro Vice Chancellor of the Mangalore Campus, welcomed the gathering, while Dr P Giridhar Kini, Registrar of MAHE, delivered the vote of thanks.
About the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh
Founded in 1681, the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh is among the world’s oldest and most prestigious medical institutions. Through its Fellowship programme, the College honours physicians who have demonstrated exceptional professional achievement and a strong commitment to advancing healthcare, medical science, and patient care globally.
