An endowment lecture honouring the legacy of Professor Late Dr Soben Peter on his birthday was organized by the Department of Public Health Dentistry, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Mangalore on 20^th December 2023. A total of 78 participants attended the program, which included post graduate and undergraduate students, and faculty members from MCODS, Mangalore and other dental colleges of India. (International-0, National-78, From MAHE-71, Outside MAHE-7)

The formal meeting commenced on 20^th December at 9.30 am. Dr Parul, TMA Pai Ph.D Scholar was the Master of Ceremonies for the event.  The program commenced with a prayer by Dr. Radhika, 1^st year post graduate student. Dr. Ramya Shenoy, Head, Department of Public Health Dentistry, MCODS, Mangalore welcomed all the participants for the inaugural program and shared her memories of Dr. Soben Peter. A symbolic tribute was paid by lighting a lamp followed by a heartfelt video presentation by Dr. Ashwini Rao that encapsulated the essence of Dr Soben Peter's life and professional journey.

Chief Guest, Dr Dilip G Naik, Pro Vice Chancellor, delivered a poignant address, eloquently articulating Dr Soben Peter's profound impact on the college and the dental community. Guest of Honor, Dr. Unnikrishnan B, Dean, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore echoed sentiments of admiration, acknowledging Dr. Soben's indelible mark on the field. Dr Ashita Uppoor, Dean, MCODS Mangalore shared poignant anecdotes, elucidating Dr Soben Peter's pioneering spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence. Dr Avinash introduced the esteemed guest speaker, Dr Harsh Priya, MCODS Alumna and Additional Professor, Department of Public Health Dentistry from esteemed institution of AIIMS New Delhi subsequently captivated the audience with her profound insights into the National Oral Health Program and various initiatives spearheaded by AIIMS and allied centers. Dr.Harsh Priya shed light on pivotal programs, such as the Pit and Fissure Sealant Program, the significance of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials in dental health promotion, efforts in preventing oral cancer, and the role of digitalization in augmenting oral healthcare services, notably citing the E-dant Seva initiative.

A token of appreciation was bestowed upon Dr. Harsh Priya by Dr Dilip G Naik, acknowledging her exemplary contributions and insightful discourse. The interactive segment, a quiz about the college, conducted by Dr. Kavery and Dr.Shushma, 3^rd  year post graduate students added an element of engagement and camaraderie among the attendees.

The event culminated with Dr Praveen delivering a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all contributors, attendees, and participants for their unwavering support and active participation. A delightful breakfast session provided an opportunity for networking and further discussions on the profound themes presented during the lecture. In essence, the Dr Soben Peter Endowment Lecture served as a platform to commemorate an exemplary professional, delve into significant oral healthcare initiatives, and foster a sense of unity and shared purpose within the dental community. Overall, good feedback was obtained from the participants and the program was well appreciated by one and all.