Team Sampada: Though many of our readers are aware about you, for the benefit of younger audience, could you please introduce yourselves?
Narayan Rao Maanay: I am an Engineering graduate from Civil Engineering. I had secured 6th rank during Engineering and later obtained the Post Graduate degree in Flour Milling Technology (FFMT) from London and secured 2nd Rank among 17,000 students from 53 Common Wealth Countries. I am a Post graduate diploma holder in Environmental Law (PGDEL) from highly reputed National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore.
I am responsible for establishing several Educational Institutions to offer quality education at Schools to College level. As an educationist overwhelmingly concerned about the future of youngsters, I strongly advocate multidisciplinary education system where students are given the choice of their field of specialisation(s) with passion for study.
Also as a philanthropist I have been involved in many social activities by being part of several social movements like Swachcha Bharat, Empowering Rural youth, Farmers and Women, Scholarship to Economically weaker and academically brighter students and many more.
Presently, I am holding the responsibility as a Trustee and Secretary of Bhageerathi Bai Narayana Rao Maanay Charities and Secretary of Bhageerathi Bai Narayana Rao Maanay Educational Institutions. Also I am the Chairman of Governing Council of BNMIT.
Apart from these, I am an environmentalist at heart and involved in many activities like
– People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals
– World wide fund for Nature
– Niligiri Environment and wild life Association
– Bombay Natural History Society, Bombay
– Youth Photographic Society, Bangalore
– BNM Friends of Nature Club.
– AI based modern Agriculture system and an organic Farmer since last 18 years.
TS: How did you join UVCE and what are most fond memories from College days ?
NRM: Coming from an industrialist family involved in flour milling, the second to be established in the country in 1910, I was discouraged to continue higher education in order to join the family industry. However passion over rid the directives and was given an option to study engineering only if a seat could be obtained at UVCE the most prestigious college or join the industry. I strived hard to get a seat at UVCE and the wonderful journey began.
The best 5 years of the journey was spent amongst highly intelligent students and most knowledgeable and dedicated teachers and, we cannot forget the maths classes of Prof. Made Gowda, Applied Mechanics of prof. M G Srinivas who would stay back late in the night sometimes 8-9 pm to clarify our doubts. The table tennis sessions in the present seminar hall, the sparingly used tennis courts, the very economical canteen- two idli one vada plus coffee for Rs. 1.50. The adjacent classrooms and chemistry lab of Prof. Kempaiah. All the project tours starting with the geology tour by Prof. Vasanth Kumar and the survey tour under Sarvotham Rao both to Ghati Subramanya and the semester wise project tours to CSIR Chennai, Hassan Mangalore Railway project, Mangalore Harbour project, the Ramadurga pre-stressed concrete bridge tours on Belgaum- Ponda road near Goa.
The most interesting North India tour for almost a month were interspersed with intellectual exchanges. We had the most knowledgeable dedicated and caring teachers of UVCE which can be compared to a Gurukul are unforgettable experiences under the Hitlerian leadership of Dr. Ramiah the Principal.
TS: With helm of affairs at BNMIT, you have witnessed the current student life on daily basis. As an academician , what are some of your thoughts or ideas that should be included in the students’ learning regime ?
NRM: At BNMIT, witnessing the vibrant and dynamic student life every day gives me immense insight into the evolving needs of learners. As an academician, I believe that the learning regime should be a holistic blend of the following key elements:
– Interdisciplinary Learning: Students should be encouraged to explore knowledge beyond their core discipline. This can be achieved through minor specializations, elective courses, and collaboration on multi-disciplinary projects.
– Practical Exposure: Real-world applications through internships, live projects, and industry exposure should be integral. It helps bridge the gap between theory and practice and prepares students for the workforce.
– Skill-Based Training: Technical proficiency, soft skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities are essential for a successful career. Introducing regular workshops on emerging technologies, communication skills, and leadership development is vital.
– Entrepreneurial Mindset: Encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship through incubation centers, start-up cells, and mentorship programs can foster a creative and risk-taking mindset among students.
– Ethics and Sustainability: Courses on ethics, societal impact, and sustainable development should be integrated to instill a sense of responsibility towards society and the environment.
– Mental and Physical Well-being: Including mindfulness programs, sports, yoga, and counseling services ensures a balanced lifestyle, contributing to holistic student development.
By integrating these components, we can create an ecosystem at BNMIT that nurtures not just academically sound individuals but also empathetic, innovative, and future-ready leaders.
TS: Since you have completed 50 years of graduation and were part of celebrations, we would like to hear about the memories of your friends and meeting them and the faculty after a long time
NRM: Celebrating 50 years since my graduation was an emotional and heartwarming experience. Meeting my friends after so many decades brought back a flood of cherished memories from our college days—our camaraderie, the countless hours spent in classrooms and labs, and the fun moments that made those years unforgettable. It felt as though no time had passed; we picked up conversations right where we had left them, reminiscing about the pranks we played, the challenges we faced together, and the bonds we forged during our formative years.
Meeting the faculty who shaped our paths was equally humbling. These were the mentors who instilled in us not just knowledge, but also values and discipline, laying the foundation for our careers and lives. Seeing them again reminded me of the profound impact they had on all of us, and it was a moment of gratitude and reflection.
The celebration was more than a reunion—it was a testament to the enduring relationships we built and the lasting influence of our education. It reinforced how our alma mater was not just an institution but a home where we grew as individuals. These memories, along with the reconnections, are treasures I will hold dear for the rest of my life.
TS: Being in the Administration of an Institution for so long, we feel you are one of the best people to suggest some plans for the betterment of our Alma mater – UVCE which has become Autonomous now
NRM: First, let me express how proud I am that UVCE has achieved autonomy—a significant milestone that opens up immense opportunities for growth and innovation.
Being part of an academic administration for so many years has allowed me to witness first-hand how institutions can transform by leveraging their autonomy effectively. Here are some suggestions for the betterment of our alma mater:
– Curriculum Innovation: UVCE should focus on designing a flexible and multidisciplinary curriculum aligned with industry needs and emerging technologies. Offering electives across various disciplines and integrating skill-based learning will prepare students for the challenges of the real world.
– Research and Development Ecosystem: The institution must encourage research by establishing dedicated research centers, providing seed funding for innovative projects, and collaborating with industries and global universities. A focus on patents and technology incubation can create a robust R&D environment.
– Alumni Engagement: Alumni are one of UVCE’s biggest strengths. Establishing a structured alumni network can help channel resources, mentorship, and opportunities for students. Regular alumni meets, guest lectures, and collaborative projects can bridge the gap between students and industry experts.
– Infrastructure Upgrades: While UVCE has a rich legacy, modernizing infrastructure is critical to stay competitive. Smart classrooms, well-equipped labs, and a modern library with access to global academic resources can greatly enhance the learning experience.
– Focus on Startups and Innovation: Setting up a dedicated innovation and entrepreneurship cell can nurture students’ creative ideas and help them turn those into startups. By connecting students with venture capitalists, mentors, and incubation centers, UVCE can position itself as a hub for innovation.
– Faculty Development: Providing faculty with opportunities for professional development, such as advanced training programs, research collaborations, and exposure to global academic trends, will directly impact the quality of education imparted to students.
– Green and Sustainable Campus: UVCE can serve as a role model for sustainability by adopting green practices such as renewable energy, waste management, and eco-friendly transportation. It will not only create a better campus environment but also instill a sense of environmental responsibility in students.
– Community Outreach: UVCE can strengthen its role in society by conducting outreach programs, offering skill development courses for underprivileged communities, and engaging in social welfare initiatives. This will enrich students’ holistic development and promote social responsibility.
With autonomy comes the responsibility to innovate and lead by example. I am confident that UVCE will rise to the occasion and create benchmarks in academic excellence. It would be my honour to assist in any way to see our alma mater thrive.
TS: What would you suggest to UVCE Graduate Association on trying to build the alumni network and create a platform for alumni ?
NRM: The UVCE Graduate Association holds tremendous potential to build a vibrant alumni network and establish a meaningful “Give Back to UVCE” initiative. A strong alumni community can play a pivotal role in the growth and development of UVCE. Here are my suggestions to achieve this:
* Create a Comprehensive Alumni Database : The first step is to build a centralized and updated database of alumni. This can include contact details, current professional roles, achievements, and areas of interest. Using digital platforms and social media to reconnect with alumni from across the globe is essential.
* Digital Platform for Engagement : Develop a dedicated alumni portal or app where members can connect, share updates, and access resources. This platform can also include features like mentorship programs, job postings, event calendars, and donation gateways.
* Regular Alumni Meets and Events: Organize annual or biennial alumni meets to bring graduates together and reconnect with the institution. Events like webinars, panel discussions, and industry-focused conferences led by alumni can foster stronger bonds and mutual growth.
* Mentorship and Career Guidance Programs: Leverage the expertise of alumni to mentor current students and recent graduates. Alumni can guide them on career planning, entrepreneurship, and skill development. Creating a structured mentorship program will enhance student outcomes and strengthen the connection between alumni and the institution.
* “Give Back to UVCE” Campaigns : Launch well-structured campaigns to encourage alumni to contribute to UVCE. Contributions can be monetary (scholarships, infrastructure funding) or non-monetary (time, expertise, guest lectures). Highlight specific projects or goals that alumni contributions will support, such as setting up a modern lab or creating an innovation centre.
* Recognition and Celebration of Alumni Achievements : Celebrate the achievements of alumni through awards, newsletters, or social media shout-outs. Recognizing their contributions will inspire others to actively engage with the association and the institution.
* Corporate Partnerships through Alumni: Many alumni occupy leadership roles in organizations. Encourage them to initiate collaborations between their companies and UVCE for internships, placements, research projects, and funding.
* Involve Alumni in Decision-Making : Form an advisory board comprising distinguished alumni to provide guidance on institutional development. Involving them in strategic planning will create a sense of ownership and commitment to UVCE’s progress.
* Establish Endowment Funds : Work towards creating an endowment fund for UVCE through alumni contributions. These funds can support scholarships, faculty development, and infrastructure upgrades. Regular reporting on the utilization of these funds will build trust and encourage more contributions.
* Social Media Outreach : Use social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram to keep alumni engaged. Share updates on UVCE’s achievements, events, and initiatives to maintain a sense of connection and pride among alumni.
Building a strong alumni network and fostering a culture of giving back is a long-term endeavor, but with focused efforts and sustained engagement, UVCE can become a model institution where alumni play a significant role in its success story. As a proud alumnus, I would be delighted to contribute to these efforts in any capacity.
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