Women’s Day Story: The Mumbai-born woman who broke barriers in medicine in the 1800s

Women’s Day Story: The Mumbai-born woman who broke barriers in medicine in the 1800s

Mar 6: The first cohort of students on the University of Glasgow and Biocon  Academy partnership MSc successfully graduated today (27 February), marking a  significant milestone for the industry-integrated programme.  

 Born in Bombay in 1868, Dr Vakil was a pioneering figure in women’s education at a time  when women in India – and across the world – faced significant barriers to formal study,  particularly in medicine. After completing a Bachelor of Arts degree at Wilson College in  1888, she pursued medical training at the London School of Medicine for Women before  joining Queen Margaret College Medical School in Glasgow in 1893. She graduated MB CM  in 1897, becoming a trailblazer for Indian women in medicine and international education. 

Following her graduation, Dr Vakil worked for two years in Glasgow hospitals as a  postgraduate, before returning to Bombay to serve in local hospitals. Her medical career later  took her to Aden where she worked in both Government service and private practice until  1941.  

Dr Vakil’s achievements highlight the enduring partnership between the University of  Glasgow and India. Indian students have been part of the University community since the  late 19th century, and today India remains one of the University’s most significant  international partners, with collaborations spanning health, engineering, the arts, global  challenges and student mobility. 

Professor Rachel Sandison, Deputy Vice Chancellor (External Engagement) at the University  of Glasgow, said:

“Dr Merbai Ardesir Vakil’s story is one of courage and determination. At a  time when opportunities for women in medicine were scarce worldwide, she crossed borders  in pursuit of her ambition and went on to serve communities in India and beyond. As we  continue to expand our partnerships across India, we do so inspired by trailblazers like Dr  Vakil, whose brilliance helped open doors for generations of women who followed.” 

The University continues to build on its historic links with India through joint research  initiatives, academic partnerships, alumni networks and programmes that expand  opportunities for students from across the region.