As many as 223 BDS and 63 MDS students, who passed out during the last two years received their degrees at the 16^th graduation ceremony of GITAM Dental College and Hospital here on Friday. Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, New Delhi Vice-Chancellor Padmashri Dr.Mahesh Verma attended as chief guest and addressed the graduates. In his graduation day address, he said that the profession of medicine was prestigious with ample scope for growth.

He mentioned that present-day dentistry was technology-based practice and always challenging. He also advised the students to fulfill their duty with utmost dedication and within the limits of medical ethics. Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore Faculty of Dental Sciences Dean Dr.Rabindra S.Nayak attended as a distinguished guest and explained the growth of dental medicine in the present day world.

GITAM President M.Sribharath stressed the need to popularise the oral health importance in rural areas. He stressed the need for research in dental medicine and advised the graduates to focus more on new medical technologies to expand the profession.

GITAM Dental College and Hospital Principal Prof.D.Sitarama Raju informed that GITAM Dental College secured 33^rd rank in NIRF national rankings among 350 dental colleges. He mentioned that GITAM Dental College and Hospital is planning to adopt government schools and also taking the initiative to open special clinics like oral implant logy, Aesthetics and sleep in addition to the present fast track clinic in the hospital.  

GITAM Vice-Chancellor Prof.Dayananda Siddavattam, GIMSR Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof.B.Gitanjali, and GITAM Governing Body Members participated in the graduation ceremony. Around 21 students received Gold Medals for their academic achievements.