The International College of Dentists (ICD), Section VI (India, Sri Lanka, Nepal), made a major impact at its most recent Conference and Convocation, hosted at SRM Kattankulathur Dental College, SRMIST, Chennai. The event brought together dental professionals, educators, and students from across the region to engage in academic exchange, celebrate fellowship, and recognize humanitarian efforts in dentistry.
Under the leadership of Section VI President Dr. Meera Verma and Secretary General Dr. Y. K. Virmani, the event reflected ICD’s mission to foster global dental leadership grounded in ethics and service. The local organizing committee—led by Dr. S. M. Balaji (National Coordinator), Dr. Vivek N. (Conference Chairman), Dr. K. T. Magesh(Organizing Secretary), and Dr. C. Deepak (Scientific Chairman)—orchestrated the gathering with precision and energy.
More than 1,400 delegates attended, demonstrating the growing relevance of the ICD platform in the region. The scientific program featured two plenary halls with keynote addresses from prominent national and international experts, along with eight breakout halls for academic paper presentations. Dental students and faculty from across India presented research spanning clinical innovation, public health, and dental education
A Convocation of Distinction
A major highlight was the ICD Convocation ceremony, presided over by ICD Global President Dr. Ian M. Doyle. Guests of honor included Dr. Mahesh Verma and Dr. T. R. Paarivendhar. Before an audience of nearly 3,000, 31 new Fellows were inducted into the College—an honor recognizing professional excellence, ethical practice, and global-minded service.
The induction ceremony served not only as a formal welcome but also as a moment to reaffirm ICD’s core values of leadership and service. Each Fellow inducted is expected to contribute to the advancement of dentistry beyond their clinical roles—through education, advocacy, and humanitarian outreach.
Honoring Service, Talent, and Leadership
The event also recognized excellence across multiple dimensions of the profession:
- Humanitarian Awards were presented to four dental colleges in recognition of their ongoing community service and outreach in underserved areas. These awards reflect ICD’s emphasis on compassion-driven care.
- ICD Appreciation Awards went to nine individuals for their leadership in public health, continuing education, and charitable dental services. These honorees exemplify the profession’s potential to address systemic barriers to oral care.
- Student Excellence Awards were conferred on 41 top-performing students from dental colleges across India. These students were not only academically strong but also stood out for leadership, volunteering, and advocacy. Their selection highlights ICD’s investment in the next generation of responsible dental leaders.
Innovation and Expression in Scientific Competitions
In addition to lectures and ceremonies, the conference promoted academic creativity through E-Poster, Reel, and Essay competitions. Participants submitted original scientific work and public health messaging in both visual and written formats. Winning entries were honored during the valedictory function and praised for innovation, clarity, and relevance.
By blending high-level academic discourse with broad participation and meaningful recognition, the ICD Section VI Conference & Convocation in Chennai reaffirmed the organization’s standing as a thought leader in global dentistry. With a strong foundation in service, fellowship, and scholarship, the event exemplified the mission of the ICD: to lead, to learn, and to serve.
Source: Adapted from Dental Tribune International – India Edition
