The School of Allied and Healthcare Professions (SoAHP), Presidency University, through its Anaesthesia and Operation Theatre Technology (AOTT) programme, is organising a special lecture to mark World Anaesthesia Day on Friday, 16 October 2026, from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm. The event will be held in person at the L Block Seminar Hall and is intended for students of SoAHP.

Titled ‘From Ether Day to Modern Anaesthesia: History, Safety and the Technologist’s Role’, the lecture will trace the evolution of anaesthesia, from the landmark use of ether to contemporary anaesthetic practices. It will highlight advances in anaesthesia equipment and monitoring technologies, the continuing importance of patient safety, and the contribution of anaesthesia and operation theatre technologists to safe perioperative care.

The session will be delivered by Dr Zakir Hussain Parray, Associate Professor, Head of Department and Master Trainer – AOTT (Pan India), Emversity, HAL Road, Bengaluru. With academic and clinical experience in Operation Theatre and Anaesthesia Technology, Dr Parray brings expertise in clinical practice, research, curriculum development and faculty training. His professional experience includes surgical theatre practice, academic publications and the development of curricula compliant with the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) framework.

The lecture aims to help students understand key milestones in the history of anaesthesia, recognise the role of modern equipment and monitoring in ensuring safe anaesthetic care, and appreciate the responsibilities of AOTT technologists in supporting the anaesthesia team. The session will also provide an opportunity to connect historical developments with current clinical practices and emerging innovations in the field.

The event is being coordinated by Ms Aishwarya Paramesh, Assistant Professor, AOTT, under the guidance of the School of Allied and Healthcare Professions. Through this academic initiative, the School seeks to strengthen students’ historical understanding, clinical awareness and commitment to patient safety in anaesthesia practice.