Ambassador of India Visits St. Martinus University Faculty of Medicine in Curaçao

Curaçao: St. Martinus University, Faculty of Medicine, had the distinct honor of welcoming His Excellency Mr. Kumar Tuhin, Ambassador of India to the Netherlands, to its academic campus during his visit to Curaçao.

He was accompanied by Mr. Jack (Jagdish) Mirpuri, Honorary Consul of India for Curaçao, and Mr. Krish Gupta, First Secretary of the Embassy of India in The Hague. The University community was pleased and grateful for the time and attention he dedicated to this meaningful visit.

Campus Engagement and Institutional Overview

The visit commenced with a formal introduction to the University’s leadership, including Vice-Chancellor Dr. Danna Soria and Deans Dr. Ravi Vintha and Dr. José Mendoza. Student leaders extended a warm welcome before escorting the Ambassador on a guided campus tour. His Excellency expressed pleasant surprise at the University’s state-of-the-art facilities, highlighting the advanced clinical skills laboratory and educational technology available to students.

During a detailed presentation, faculty briefed the delegation on the University’s history, academic milestones, and 25-year commitment to medical education. The Ambassador demonstrated keen interest in the curriculum, commending its alignment with high academic and professional standards.

Personal Reflections and Support for Medical Students

Ambassador Tuhin shared personal reflections, noting that both his sister and daughter are physicians practicing in the United States, giving him firsthand appreciation of the challenges faced by medical students and their families. He was encouraged to see the University’s strong support system for students as they transition to life on the island and the demands of medical training.

Interactive Session with Students

The Ambassador later joined an interactive gathering hosted by the SGA and AMSA student associations. Student representatives offered insight into academic life, extracurricular engagement, and campus culture. The dialogue was warm and constructive, with students sharing their positive experiences, challenges, and aspirations, underscoring the University’s supportive environment.

A particularly meaningful moment occurred when an SMU student — formerly a medical student in Ukraine — personally thanked the Ambassador for his leadership in evacuating Indian medical students during the onset of the Ukraine conflict. The Ambassador received the gesture with humility and compassion.

Words of Encouragement and Institutional Appreciation

At the conclusion of his visit, Ambassador Tuhin reaffirmed that his office remains available to support Indian students whenever needed. He expressed that he was deeply impressed with the campus, faculty, and student engagement, stating his confidence that St. Martinus University offers an excellent foundation for aspiring physicians. He encouraged students to pursue their goals with dedication, assuring them that success awaits those who remain committed to their path.

Message from the Chancellor

Although away on official commitments, Chancellor Dr. Murali Ginjupalli conveyed his appreciation to all faculty, staff, and student leaders who contributed to making the visit memorable. He reaffirmed the University’s commitment to its mission of preparing skilled, compassionate physicians to address global healthcare shortages.

About St. Martinus University

St. Martinus University, Faculty of Medicine, located in Curaçao, has provided medical education for more than 25 years. Its vision is to produce well-trained physicians equipped to improve healthcare outcomes across the world.