Posted on: August 14, 2023

Professor Dr. Nailady Sridhar Shetty: A Visionary Educator who had Shaped the Future of Exceptional Professionals in Dental Sciences

By Grace Martin

Mangalore, Karnataka, India – Professor Dr. Nailady Sridhar Shetty, an esteemed figure in the world of dentistry, continues to leave an indelible mark on the profession through his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to dental sciences. With 56 years of teaching experience, including 21 years as the Dean of a dental college, Professor Shetty has played a pivotal role in shaping passionate professionals in dental education and rural healthcare in India and beyond.

Born on July 9th, 1941, in Kundapur, Karnataka, Professor Dr. Nailady Sridhar Shetty hails from the renowned Nailady Family. His journey from a small township to becoming one of the most respected academicians, administrators, and compassionate Prosthodontists in the country is a testament to his dedication and passion for his craft.

After completing his primary and high school education in Kundapur, Professor Shetty pursued his higher studies at St. Aloysius College in Mangalore. He then joined the Government Dental College in Bangalore, where he earned his Bachelor of Dental Surgery (B.D.S.) degree in May 1965. Immediately after graduation, he began his career as a Lecturer at the same institution.

Driven by a thirst for knowledge and a commitment to excellence, Professor Shetty pursued further specialization in Prosthetic Dentistry, obtaining his Master of Dental Surgery (M.D.S.) degree from Bombay University in April 1973. He rejoined the Government Dental College in Bangalore as an Assistant Professor and later served as the Head of the Department of Prosthodontics at Nairobi University, Kenya, and Kartoum University Dental School, Sudan.

Throughout his career, Professor Dr. Nailady Sridhar Shetty has been a multifaceted individual, excelling in various domains. He has not only been a remarkable clinician, researcher, and educator but also an able administrator, disciplinarian, and sportsman. His prowess in athletics, shuttle badminton, volleyball, and participation in drama and stage plays exemplify his all-round abilities and commitment to a well-rounded life.

In 1985, Professor Shetty embarked on a new chapter as the Founder Dean of the A.B. Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences in Mangalore. Under his visionary leadership, the institute flourished and gained prominence as one of the country’s premier dental education institutions. He nurtured the institution for a record 21 years, leaving an indelible legacy as a disciplinarian, respected academician, and beloved teacher.

Beyond his role at A.B. Shetty Memorial Institute, Professor Shetty’s impact on dental education extended to national and international levels. He served as the President of the Dental Council of India from 1994 to 1998 and Vice President from 1993 to 1994. His contributions to curricular development for both graduate BDS and postgraduate MDS programs, along with his guidance in establishing teaching institutions with appropriate infrastructure and clinical facilities, have shaped the dental education landscape in the country. Additionally, his emphasis on holistic oral and dental healthcare for rural populations has had a profound impact on improving access to quality dental services in underserved areas.

Professor Dr. Nailady Sridhar Shetty’s dedication to dentistry and his unwavering commitment to education and rural healthcare have earned him numerous accolades and awards. Notably, he was honored with the prestigious Dr. B.C. Roy National Award for “Medico-Social Relief” in 1996, presented by the Hon’ble President of India, Sri K.R. Narayanan. His contributions as an eminent senior teacher in the field of health sciences were recognized by the Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore, which bestowed upon him the “Eminent Teacher Award” in 2007.

In 2022, during the 50th-year golden jubilee conference of the Indian Prosthodontic Society, Professor Shetty received the esteemed Dr. Gary Goldstein’s Acharya Shree Award. This award honored his contributions, dedication, and meritorious service as a “Teacher of Par Excellence” in the field of Prosthodontics for over 50 years. His influence, guidance, and mentorship have positively impacted numerous students and professionals, shaping their careers and benefiting the field as a whole.

Professor Dr. Nailady Sridhar Shetty’s impact extends beyond his contributions to dentistry and education. His visionary approach to rural healthcare led him to develop a groundbreaking concept called “Silent Revolution for Rural Empowerment: Vision & Concept for Equality in Healthcare.” This concept, detailed in his book of the same name, envisions a comprehensive healthcare system that provides free-of-cost health services to rural and semi-urban populations, emphasizing accessibility, availability, and affordability. Through this model, implemented at A.B. Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences, over 2 million rural individuals have received dental and oral healthcare services, setting a precedent for similar initiatives across the nation.

Professor Dr. Nailady Sridhar Shetty’s journey as a teacher, philosopher, clinician, active researcher, champion of rural healthcare, and administrator is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the field of dental sciences. His kind and compassionate approach to patient care, combined with his commitment to academic excellence, has earned him the respect and admiration of his students, colleagues, and patients.

As we reflect on Professor Dr. Nailady Sridhar Shetty’s remarkable 56-year career, we celebrate his immeasurable contributions to dental education, research, and rural healthcare. His unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and social responsibility has shaped the future of dentistry in India and continues to inspire generations of dental professionals.

Professor Dr. Nailady Sridhar Shetty’s dedication, vision, and immense contributions have left an indelible mark on the field of dentistry. His legacy as a teacher, leader, and compassionate clinician will continue to inspire and guide future generations, ensuring the advancement of passionate professionals in dental sciences and the well-being of countless individuals.

Dear Sir, May you continue to thrive and inspire with your wisdom, kindness, and unwavering commitment to the dental profession and the betterment of society as a whole.