Hyderabad: The students and faculty of Osmania Medical College (OMC) came together to organize a grand farewell for Dr Shashikala Reddy, the principal who gracefully opted for retirement on Monday, January 22.
Dr Reddy was celebrated with enthusiasm as she embarked on her farewell journey in a flower-adorned chariot accompanied by drums. The campus echoed with expressions of gratitude, with chants like "Thank You, Ma'am" and "Love You, Ma'am" filling the air as the chariot toured the college premises. The grand farewell served as a testament to Dr Reddy's outstanding integrity, recognizing her as a principled leader who dedicated herself to the college's development, even contributing from her own resources.
Dr Shashikala Reddy has 24 years of teaching experience and she is an MD in Microbiology. She joined Osmania Medical College as an Assistant Professor in 1997.
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Amidst speculations about Dr Reddy securing a prominent government position, she clarified that there was no such plan. Dismissing the rumors, she explained that her decision to retire was driven by her desire to focus on the Cure Foundation, a charitable organization established by her family. “There are incomplete works and I have tried my best to perform my duties. I have decided that this is the end. I would like to relax, and be involved in charity work,” she informed
South First.
Giving an idea about her future plans, she further added, "My family runs the Cure Foundation, which supports poor children affected by cancer. It was started in 2013 and I would like to continue the work. More specifically, my husband Dr Vijay Anand Reddy, the director of Apollo Cancer Hospital, is a member of the anti-tobacco drive, so I wish to become one of the members of the central anti-tobacco board and will conduct awareness programmes and events."
Throughout her five-and-a-half-year tenure, students and faculty members lauded Dr Reddy's impactful contributions. They highlighted her role in enhancing the college's infrastructure, utilizing personal funds to construct roads, a gym, a canteen, and other essential facilities. Sai Dinesh Reddy, a member of the 2018 batch, praised Dr Reddy for scripting a chapter of excellence in Osmania's history. Dr Murali Krishna from the 2017 batch poetically expressed her influence, stating, “Just as a rock can be shaped into God by a sculptor, Ma’am, you have shaped us into worthy doctors.”
Another student shared snippets of the occasion while thanking Dr Shashikala Reddy. "It’s not often that one comes across a grand celebration by students and faculty for an outgoing principal. But on Monday, this is exactly what the students, and faculty did for Dr P Shashikala Reddy, principal of Osmania Medical College," she stated.
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