Free Speech and Hearing Camp Inaugurated at Father Muller
Mangaluru: A Free Speech and Hearing Camp, organised by Father Muller Medical College Hospital (FMMCH) in observance of International Hearing-Impaired Week, was inaugurated on September 21 at the hospital premises.
The programme was presided over by Rev. Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director, Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI). Dr. Venkatesha B. M., Vice Dean, Father Muller Medical College and Professor, Department of Medicine, was the chief guest.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Venkatesha appreciated the initiative and described the camp as a valuable service to individuals experiencing hearing, speech and swallowing difficulties. He said timely assessment, appropriate treatment and professional guidance could significantly improve the quality of life of those affected.
He also appreciated the provision of assessments and assistive devices at concessional rates, noting that such initiatives would make specialised care more accessible to the community.
Addressing the gathering, Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo highlighted the vital role of hearing and speech in effective communication. “Good communication requires good hearing and proper speech,” he observed, emphasising that difficulties in either can affect a person’s ability to understand, express themselves and connect with others.
He stressed that the ability to hear, speak and communicate remains important throughout life, from childhood to old age. These faculties enable people to participate fully in society, build relationships and experience the joys of everyday life. The camp, he added, reflects the institution’s commitment to reaching out to people who require assessment, treatment and support.
Rev. Fr Faustine also encouraged the public to spread awareness about the services available through the camp and help those in need access timely care. “Let your neighbour know of the same, so that we can share this joy of hearing and communicating,” he said.
The Father Muller College of Speech and Hearing is organising the Free Speech and Hearing Camp from September 21 to 26, 2026, at OPD No. 67, Father Muller Medical College Hospital, Utility Block, Third Floor.
The camp aims to create awareness, facilitate early diagnosis, and promote appropriate intervention for individuals with hearing, speech, language and swallowing difficulties.
Camp Highlights
The services available include:
- Free registration
- Free audiological evaluation
- 40% discount on hearing aids
- Vestibular evaluation
- Language evaluation
- Voice evaluation
- Fluency evaluation
- Articulation assessment
- Swallowing assessment
The camp is conducted in two sessions:
Morning: 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Afternoon: 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
All assessments and consultations are being conducted by qualified professionals in the field of Speech and Hearing.
Hearing impairment can range from mild hearing loss to complete deafness, while speech and language disorders can affect a person’s ability to communicate. These may include articulation difficulties, voice disorders, stammering, and language delays, and can occur in both children and adults, including those affected by neurological conditions.
Such conditions may be congenital, develop gradually over time, or result from illness, injury, or certain medications.
Participants in the camp will also receive a free Father Muller Health Card, offering exclusive benefits on consultations, diagnostic services, laboratory services and medicines.
The Department of Speech and Hearing, established in 2007, offers professional programmes in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, including BASLP, M.Sc. Audiology and M.Sc. Speech-Language Pathology. The programmes are affiliated with Mangalore University and recognised by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI).
The inaugural programme began with a welcome address by Ms Hadline, Audiologist Grade I, followed by the traditional lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries.
Among those present were Rev. Dr. Michael Ligory Santhumayor, Administrator, FMMC, FMCOAHS and FMCOP; Rev. Fr. George Jeevan Sequeira, Administrator, FMMCH; Rev. Fr. William D’Souza, Assistant Administrator, FMMCH; and Prof. Cynthia Santhmayor, Principal.
The formal inauguration concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Ms. Lavita, Speech-Language Pathologist Grade I, followed by the National Anthem.
The camp seeks to promote greater awareness of hearing and communication disorders and encourage people to seek timely assessment and appropriate care.
