It produced PDP (Programmable Digital Processor) and VAX (Virtual Addressing eXtended).
PDP-8 had limitations, but it was affordable to universities and users.
UCC bought PDP11/70.
Gordon Bell was the architect of VAX.
Microsoft bought a part of DEC.
Khin Maung Zaw wrote :
It’s kind of sad that DEC failed to keep up with their lead beyond PDP.
I don’t know why Ken Olsen was pushed out, my limited understanding was that he was not high on Unix (he had been attributed to calling Unix a ‘snake oil’), for some reason his attempts to push VAX/VMS didn’t take off as he might have liked. I’ve read it somewhere that he didn’t get much support within DEC on the VAX/VMS endeavor.
At the time, there was a talented group of DEC engineers in Seattle area (across the lake from Seattle, matter of fact we here called East Side – Bellevue/Redmond). If I recall correctly, the first Microsoft Data Center at Canyon Park, several miles north of Redmond, was ran by DEC folks in the late 80s, early 90s.
A brilliant OS architect, Dave Cutler, part of a triumvirate led DEC’s Star project, a virtual 32-bit extension on PDP 11/70. Star and its cousin Starlet became precursor to VAX/VMS among others. The triumvirate were working at the DECWEST facilities in Bellevue, next to the city of Redmond.
Around late 1980s, some events – of which I’m no clue whatsoever, Canyon Park Data Center staff as well as many of the DECWEST team became part of Microsoft.
As the saying goes, “The Rest Is History”. Dave Cutler and his team led the development of Windows NT, New Technology” and beyond. Some folks attributed Billg who manged to extract most of the DEC VAX team into MSFT.
[A titbit on VAX and NT] Mark Russinovich, received his PhD from Carnegie Mellon in 1994, wrote series of articles in the Windows magazine, comparing the deep down internals of vms and NT. He even discovered the names of the internal variables have the identical names between them.
He co-founded a company called “Winternals”, developed a set of Windows tools which quickly became a Swiss knife for every Windows engineer. Needless to say, Microsoft bought his company, the tools became part of Windows. Mark became Technical Fellow, and now he is the CTO of Azure.
Shwe Yoe (ရွှေရိုး၊ Scott, author and teacher) introduced soccer to St. John’s Diocesan Boys High School.
BAA (Burma Athletic Association) stadium (aka Aung San Stadium) hosted the First Division matches. There were (a) League Championship (b) Dunlop Knock Out Tournament … For several years, Rangoon University First Eleven competed as a First Division team.
RU Soccer
Saya Nyein (Diocesan Alumni) was RU Coach. U Than Win (Captain of RU football) studied in the US and served as a Director of SPED (Sports and Physical Education Department)8. His spouse retired as Professor of Botany Department, RU.
Some early players include U Chan Tha (Past Captain of RUBC & Captain of the Prome Hall team), U Tun Kyi (engineer), Collegian Nay Win (Academy winner) and U Kenneth Shein (father of Ma Pale Shein (ex-UCC)).
U Chan Tha’s team won the Inter-Hall Soccer Trophy for two consecutive years. Saya U Tin Swe (EE53, GBNF) was a star player.
Saya U Myo Myint Sein (A58) was a well-known soccer player.
Ko Kyaw Sint (Edward, T70, GBNF) was among the preliminary members for Burma Selected, when his career was cut short by a vicious tackle by Tin Han.
Ko Kyaw Htin (C67), Ko Soe Myint Lwin (EP68, GBNF) and Ko Khin Maung Myint (John Tint, M72, GBNF) played for youth and/or senior National Soccer Teams.
Soe Myint LwinJohn Tint
Ko Khin Maung Lay (T68), Ko Myo Nyunt (C69), Ko Myint Sein (Jabu), Ko Khin Maung Lay (Mutu), and Sai Thein Maung represented RIT in soccer. U Maung Maung (Burma) was RIT Sports Officer.
At one time, the RU Sports Council conferred Blue and Half Blue to eligible students who excel in sports.
In our days, Saya U Maung Maung Than (T, GBNF) chaired the RIT Sports Committee. Certificates were presented to the RIT sportsmen and sportswomen at the Annual gathering.
Many people in Myanmar follow the World Cup, Premium League, European Cup … in addition to the soccer tournaments (Asian Games, SEA Games, …) in which Myanmar compete.
Some not so young people from overseas remember “U Thant”, and the once “powerful soccer nation in SE Asia” when they hear the name Burma”.
RU Estate included the following (with name changes and/or structural changes over the years).
Rangoon College
Judson College
BOC College
Convocation Hall
Administrative Offices
Housing for sayas
Hostels for male and female students
RUSU (Rangoon University Students’ Union)
Sanatorium (Tekkatho Hospital)
RU Gymnasium
Tekkatho Dhammayone
RUBC (Rangoon University Boat Club)
RU Swimming Pool
Soccer fields
Tennis courts
Recreation Center (Chess, Basketball, Table Tennis, Badminton, Fine Arts …)
Libraries
Canteens
Selected Buildings
The Estate was managed by the Estate Engineer and his team.
U Nyo, a philanthropist, was a major donor for RU Estate (including RUSU and RUBC). He was conferred an Honorary Doctorate by RU.
Chan Chor Khine, second son of Chan Mah Phee and Daw Aye Mya, donated to build the RU Gymnasium.
The RU Library was funded by Reddiar.
RUSU has an important role in the History of Burma. It was the training ground for students, who later shone as regional and national leaders. Sadly, the building was demolished on 8th July 1962.
Sir Arthur Eggar, Law Professor, pledged/donated a third of his salary for RUBC. Monetary support from Dr. U Nyo and other patrons accelerated the growth of RUBC into a reputable rowing club in Burma (and beyond).
RUBC
RU was an elite University
In the early days, it was convenient and not so costly to attend RU even for those who do not have scholarships and stipends. In addition to have a reasonably good quality of education (as shown by the high success rate of Burmese scholars), there was ample time and opportunity to participate and excel in sports, hobbies (SPARK, aero-modeling, so-ka-yay-tee, public speaking, debates, …)
RU produced doctors, engineers, scientists, and social scientists who were outstanding for their extra-curricular activities.
It is sad to see students forgoing their dreams because of the need to make long commutes and without the choice of affordable housing (hostel, …).
It is sad to learn that many students cannot afford the time to participate and excel in sports, hobbies, …
A reasonably good Estate might help nurture “Jack of all trades and master of some”.
The following post contains excerpts from my long article (posted on April 15, 2020 and updated daily through April 30, 2020). It also contains some additional material.
U Tin U & FamilyPeter, Win Mar & Min KoPeter & Ye MyintPeter & Win MarU Tin U, Dr. Daw Khin Kyi Nyunt & relativesRoyal Berkshire HospitalMin Ko’s weddingPeter, Win Mar & Min KoYoung PeterPeter, Aye Aye, Ye MyintU Tin U & family
The Beginning
January 1958
Peter (Dr. Khin Tun) became the first born child of U Tin U and Dr. Khin Kyi Nyunt (Cherry Tin Gyi).
Like his grandfather and father, Peter became the Eldest Son in his family.
Like his grand parents who won Prizes for the Horticulture Show, Peter would also enjoy gardening.
Peter would later have a younger sister Aye Aye Khin and a younger brother Dr. Ye Myint.
Snapshot of Peter’s Life
1973
After finishing 10th standard examination, Peter entered a meditation retreat at Chan Myei monastery.
Matriculated from St. Augustine’s High School with four distinctions. Stood 23rd in the whole of Burma. Received Collegiate Scholarship.
Admitted to the Institute of Medicine (1).
1980s
Received MBBS in 1981.
Worked for Rangoon Children Hospital and Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint (Pediatrician).
Collected and analyzed data for UNICEF projects including Perinatal Survey with his colleagues (e.g. Dr. Pe Thet Khin)
Found Win Mar, a beautiful school teacher, as his love life.
Moved to Mezaligone and did private practice (often receiving little or no money from cash-strapped patients).
1990s
Some friends suggested Peter to study for MRCP in the UK.
Peter hosted nine friends for group study at his parent’s house.
With Ye Myint’s sponsorship, Peter moved to UK in 1994. (See Ye Myint’s speech for details).
2000s
Worked for Royal Berkeley Hospital
Promoted to Associate Specialist for Neuro and Rehabilitation
Served as Associate Dean of Oxford University
September 2017
In September 2017, he and Win Mar hosted us. Both cooked delicious meals every day. They showed us around. They drove us to Wales to see my high school friend Maung Maung Kyi.
2019
U Tin U (Peter’s father) celebrated his 90th Birthday.
Details of Peter’s life is recorded in the Photo Album for his father’s 90th Birthday Celebrations. The URL is provided by his uncle U Tin Htoon
Dr. Daw Khin Nyunt (Peter’s mother) passed away a few months before her 89th Birthday.
February 2020
Peter and family went to New Zealand to celebrate Min Ko’s birthday and wedding.
Ye Myint and family stopped over in Sydney, Australia to have gatherings with the relatives.
Peter skipped the visit to Australia, because he wanted to be back at the hospital and enable his junior staff members to take leave.
March 2020
On March 25, 2020, he said there were COVID-19 cases in London and Birmingham but not much in Reading. He showered twice daily as a precaution.
He said he was elated with his trip to NZ in February 2020. He enjoyed entertaining his aunt (Dr. Ruby) and his uncle (U Tin Htoon). He mentioned that his father (U Tin U) might finally have a Great Grandchild.
April 2020
Peter got infected with COVID-19 from one of his patients.
Five of his patients tested positive.
He was hospitalized.
His health deteriorated.
He passed away on April 13, 2020 (Easter Monday).
His Last Journey took place on April 30, 2020.
Peter’s Parents
U Tin U and Siblings
U Tin U
U Ba Than
Dr. Daw Win Hlaing (Ruby)
Daw Myint Thwe (Betty)
Dr. Myo Tint
U Tin Htoon
U Myo Min
U Thaung Lwin
Daw Cho Cho Hlaing
U Tin U
U Tin U is the eldest of nine siblings. He matriculated from St. John’s Diocesan in 1946 and attended Rangoon University. He joined Rangoon University Boat Club (RUBC) and became Captain and Gold in 1948.
He studied BSCE at Oregon State University and MSCE at Yale University. Upon his return he worked for Clark and Grieg (eventually becoming a Director) and also taught part-time at the Civil Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Rangoon University. He later worked as Consultant for InterKiln and “Bogyi Kyu Kyaw’s Group of Architects and Engineers.” He served as Secretary of Burma Civil Engineers Society, and as Captain of Rangoon Golf Club (RGc). He stayed active by playing golf, doing gardening and have a daily dose of whiskey as medicine.
He celebrated his 90th birthday in August 2019. U Tin Htoon compiled U Tin U’s accomplishments and photos into a book as a birthday present. The book also contains photos and information about U Tin U’s children.
U Tin U also gave interviews
about his days as Captain of the Rangoon Golf Club
to Saya U Soe Paing for the HMEE (History of Myanmar Engineering Education) project
to Min Ko (Peter’s elder son) about his early days in Burma and in the US.
Dr. Daw Khin Kyi Nyunt (Cherry Tin Gyi) and Siblings
U Sway Tin
Laura
Sarah
Lynn
Icy
Margaret
U Myo Kyaw
Olga
Cherry
Min Ko also interviewed his grandmother, who recounted her early school days in India and the sad loss of her father U Tin Gyi. After the war, she returned to Burma and continued schooling until she graduated from the Medical School.
She worked as Demonstrator at the School, and later joined the Nutrition Research Division of BMRI. She did her postgraduate Diploma in the UK.
Peter inherited the joy of cooking and entertaining relatives and friends with gourmet food. Peter compiled the recipes of my father and several aunts.
She and Peter had birthdays in January. They would jointly offer dana / requisites usually at Chan Myei Monastery (where Peter learned meditation after he finished his 10th standard examination).
She passed away late last year (2019) a few months before she turned 89.
Peter would join her a few months later at the tender age of 62.
Peter and Siblings
Peter Spouse : Win Mar Sons : Min Ko (Michael Tun) and Ye Lay (Will Tun)
Aye Aye Khin Spouse : Tin Tun Daughters : Thin Thiri Tun (Honey) and Khin Sandy Tun
Ye Myint Spouse : San San Aye Daughter : Aye Sanda (Jess Myint)
Win Mar
Our host
During our visit to UK, Win Mar recounted the story of how she and Peter met, their life in Mezaligone, the brief period when Peter moved to study in the UK, and the days when the family reunited in UK.
Mezaligone
Win Mar hails from Mezaligone. She knows Htein Linn (Artist, Prisoner of Conscience) and family. She hosted Htein Linn’s sister Hla Hla Htay at her house in Reading.
Post by Vicky Bowman, former UK Ambassador to Myanmar
Another foreign born NHS worker died of CoViD yesterday, in Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading, where he worked as a rehab specialist, adding to the toll.
But more importantly, Dr Peter Khin Tun was once the much loved doctor of the cooperative medical clinic in Mezaligon, Htein Lin’s village. He was particularly known for deworming any patient who crossed the threshold of the clinic for whatever reason.
Worms in Myanmar are ‘than’, သန်. Peter became known locally in Mezaligon as the than-amat သန်အမတ် (amat means high official, and than-amat is an Ambassador).
He married local school teacher-cum-nurse Ma Win Mar. We feel so sad for her and their two sons.
In the post I have shared you can see him and Win Mar showing my sister in law Hla Hla Htay, around Windsor. She was doubtless de-wormed at some point by him, before she followed in Win Mar’s footsteps and became a teacher in the village.
Win Mar got infected by COVID-19. She was hospitalized. She recovered and was discharged on April 29, 2020. She attended Peter’s Last Journey on April 30, 2020.
We managed to phone Win Mar before she was hospitalized. She and Peter hosted us during our visit to the UK a few years back. They cooked sumptuous meals daily. Peter drove us to Ogmore-by-the-sea in Wales to see my high school friend Maung Maung Kyi (who also was a Best Man at my wedding).
Min Ko (Michael Tun)
Contributions by Min Ko
Interview of U Tin U
Interview of Dr. Khin Kyi Nyunt
Phone conversation with Peter (about the days at Mezaligone)
Several posts about Peter
Providing Peter’s emails to the Media
Interviews with BBC and Newspapers
Caused Royal Berkshire Hospital to launch a formal inquiry about Peter’s demise
Handled legal and financial matters related to Peter
Video conferences for Peter’s final day and the Last Journey
Emotional farewell to Peter
Pru posted a message for Peter
Memories of Min Ko
Min Ko shared Dr. Peter’s wonderful, precious life in Meizaligone, a village in Henzada District, Irrawaddy Division.
Since the clinic was at the house, the family members were woken up early by villagers lining up to get water from the tube well.
Peter’s clinic opened from 6AM to late at night seven days a week.
Peter treated sick villagers with CETANA, some free of charge, and some were given cash assistance to go to Hospital in Big Towns.
Once a month Peter invited neighbors to have meals in the house.
Peter had an old car and learned how to do repairs.
Min Ko then read a letter written to his father and had to pause occasionally to wipe the tears. He promised to take care of the family.
Michael Tun’s sad thoughts (following Peter’s demise)
My dad Dr Peter Tun died from COVID19 because of the lack of PPE.
My hope in writing this is that it will save more doctors and nurses lives and avoid pain for their families. My dad would have wanted to speak up if he thought it would save lives.
I spoke to my dad the day that he found out there was someone who was positive for COVID19 in his ward. My dad told me that he had earlier complained to a manager because they took PPE away from his ward to take somewhere else. He was told that if there was a case, they would bring it back. He had replied that it would be TOO LATE. The last he told me, there were 4 more positive patients with no symptoms. 2 weeks later, my dad passed away and I couldn’t do anything.
Please do everything to protect the doctors and nurses. They go in scared for themselves and their families. They did not get into the profession to die a hero in battle. This is why he was a superhero to us. He was scared and still went in to help strangers completely knowing the risk. The pain for the families is unbearable. He was afraid that he would give this to my mum and now she is in hospital also waiting for her test results. The thought that if only he had had a proper protective mask, he might still have been able to enjoy his hard earned retirement after a lifetime of service just kills me.
I hope this won’t cause distress or take attention away from the need to help people but we need to also protect the people trying to protect us. We couldn’t protect my dad so I want to help protect everyone else who is in the same position that he was. Thank you for everything to all the heroes.
There will never be the right words but thank you for your kindness, good humour and your selfless acts of service. I will remember your great story telling, you telling me the recipes of your favourite dishes, planting flowers in your garden together In Reading and how beloved and respected you were by so many different people. Your spirit is already in both of your sons and it will continue to live on through them.
Here we are 8.5 weeks ago in NZ during our Buddhist wedding ceremony where you stood by our side and celebrated with us and now we will celebrate you and will ensure that your legacy lives on.
Note :
Min Ko and Prudence held their engagement party at Winner Inn in Yangon. Peter invited us to the party.
Their wedding was held in New Zealand.
Memories by Ye Lay (Will Tun)
“Pe Pe Ko Chit Tae“. [ I love you, Dad]
Ye Lay thanked his father Peter for the wonderful things that he had learned. In particular, the chanting “I take refuge in the Triple Gems”. He recited to Peter at the hospital.
He sang an old Scottish ballad “Loch Lomond“. He remembered Peter taking Chan Myei Sayadaw to Loch Lomond.
By yon bonnie banks and by yon bonnie braes Where the sun shines bright on Loch Lomond Where we two have passed so many blithesome days On the bonnie, bonnie banks of Loch Lomond
[Refrain] O ye’ll take the high road and I’ll take the low road And I’ll be in Scotland afore ye But me and my true love will never meet again On the bonnie, bonnie banks of Loch Lomond
I mind where we parted on yon shady glen On the steep, steep side o’ Ben Lomond Where in purple hue, the Heiland hills we view And the moon shinin’ out from the gloamin’
Ye Lay studied at St Andrew’s in Scotland for his second Masters. His parents attended his graduation.
He ended by reciting
“Buddham saranam gaccha mi. [I take refuge in the Buddha]. Dhammam saranan gaccha mi. [I take refuge in the Dhamma]. Sangham saranam gaccha mi. [I take refuge in the Sangha].
Contributions by Ye Lay
Posts and Farewell speech
Sang songs / ballads to Dr. Khin Kyi Nyunt
Sang “Loch Lomond” at Peter’s Last Journey
Was my guide to Oxford University
Dana by Aye Aye Khin (sister) and Dr. Ye Myint (brother)
On behalf of Peter’s family, Aye Aye Khin (sister) offered requisites to Sayadaw U Thawbita (Chan Myei) in Yangon.
Offerings were also made by U Ba Than (uncle) and Daw Mya Mya (GBNF), Ye Than (cousin) and family, U Myo Myint and Daw Tin Tin Win, Dr. Khin Win Myint, Aung Thu and Khin Myat Naing, Myo Tin and Dr. Khine Zin Oo.
Aye Aye Khin (Peter’s sister) wrote :
Listen to sayardaw u thaw bi ta’s Tayar. You can hear $ donation of Tina / Dr. Win Marla (Aunty Olga’s daughter); Kyi Kyi Han (Aunty Icy’s daughter) & Maung Maung Tin (Aunty Olga’s son).
and also Thingan and Nawkama by Cho Cho Hlaing (aunt) AyeAye Khin (sister), Ko Tin Tun and daughters
5 Thingun donate from (Ko Tin Tun’s cousin) Susi Sein; Ohnmar Sein & Sayarlay Nwe Ni Sein
Contributions by Aye Aye Khin and family
Took care of U Tin U and Dr. Daw Khin Kyi Nyunt
Organized dana for Peter Donations by relatives
Thin Thiri posted a video of Peter’s Last Journey
Memories by Dr. Ye Myint (Recording played at Peter’s Last Journey)
Firstly I would like to thank you all for being here.
Thanks to all those who shared their good memories of my beloved brother. The family appreciates your kind thoughts and prayers.
It is a great honour to be able to share my memories, and talk about my big brother Peter, who will forever remain in our hearts.
My kindhearted brother spent his life caring not only for patients, but relatives, friends and acquaintances. He gave up his life in the line of duty. He will be missed by all.
Peter, my sister and I were very privileged to grow up together in one large family estate. We were very close sharing the same room and being together daily.
He set a high bar for us intellectually and socially. Due to his high intellect, he got double promotion twice and skipped 2 years.
He matriculated with four distinctions. He stood 23rd in the whole of Burma and was awarded a University Scholarship. He was admitted to the Rangoon University of Medicine, which I also attended. He supported me to become a good compassionate doctor like himself.
He stayed fit by taking part in many sports : football, badminton, cycling and rowing. He was the university selected athlete for Shot put and Discus throwing.
He started cooking as a teenager and learnt many recipes from our mother and continued this lifelong hobby. He was a very good artist and created large paintings as well as water coloured Christmas cards. He was also a very keen gardener and read various books. He had great general knowledge and many called him a walking encyclopaedia.
After he qualified as a doctor, he worked as a UNICEF research officer for mother and child health in Hlegu where he met his future wife Ma Win Mar. After they fell in love he decided to move to Mezligone. I accompanied him on this trip there and helped to set up a new medical clinic. He worked there daily for 11 years where he was relied upon by his patients even out of hours.
I sponsored him to move to UK in 1994 to help progress his medical career. He lived with us until he got his first job in Burton-on-Trent. He got his second job in Pontefract and arranged for his family to relocate to the UK to join him. We were lucky to live only 20 minutes drive away so had nice weekly reunions which made our families even closer.
He then moved to London for rehabilitation medicine training after he passed his MRCP examinations and then moved to Reading 21 years ago working as an associate specialist. Peter has helped many Doctors coming to the UK for further studies where he gave valuable advice and treated them to his home cooking. He always enjoyed entertaining and cooking for family and friends.
We had regular family reunions and memorable family holidays together in Devon, Italy, Burma and most recently in New Zealand. We will cherish these lovely memories together. He had such a great sense of humour and always made those around him happy with his personality and big smiles. He was remarkable in many different ways. He lived an enjoyable successful life and treated all family members, relatives and friends with loving kindness. He touched so many people as evident by the countless tributes, messages, cards and donations.
I am sure you are in a much better place, Ko Ko, after doing so many good deeds throughout your life. We will miss you greatly and always remember you with love. Thank you so much for being a loving big brother, a great Uncle to Aye Sanda, a best friend, mentor and teacher.
Donations for Peter
We donated £100 to SHEFFIELD Monastery and £50 to Manchester Monastery (fund will be sent to Myanmar to fight against COVID).
Contributions by Ye Myint and family
Liaison with ICU Doctors (during Peter’s hospitalization)
Liasion with Medical Staff (during Win Mar’s hospitalization)
Interview with BBC (Burmese Program)
Interview with BBC (English Program)
Message for Peter’s Funeral
Per suggestion from San San Aye, appealed to relatives to help alleviate the financial burden of Peter’s family members
Jess wrote two posts : one during Peter’s hospitalization and another after Peter’s demise The FB page also has reference to “Remembering Peter Tun” by the Royal Berkshire Hospital (which had 80+ entries)
From Oxford Sayadaw U Dhammasami
Dakagyi Dr Peter Khin Tun,
From now on, it will not be my priority to remember that you lived 62 years, but rather how many thousands of life you have touched and nurtured. People are remembered for what they did for others, not how long they live. Ultimately, it is your exemplary selfless service to the many that will be inscribed in many hearts. Since we came to know each other in London in 1996, you have watched proudly your two boys grow up and achieve some standing of their own. As you always wished, I will take care of them spiritually so they can serve many souls as you have. Have a good rebirth.
With metta,
Oxford Sayadaw
Jess Myint’s post after Peter’s health deteriorated
My Uncle Peter has been on a ventilator for four days after testing positive for COVID-19 2 weeks ago. He seemed to be coping well in the first week and he kept sending me pictures as reassurance. But things rapidly progressed and he was unreachable not replying back or answering calls which was very unlike him for 2 days. He was admitted to ICU and was initially stable on the ventilator but his condition has unfortunately deteriorated last night. There are many pleas but it is scary what this virus has done to people and families worldwide so please everyone take things seriously and do whatever you can to help minimize the spread of this virus any further.
Think of the doctors, nurses and NHS workers, like my Uncle that have put their lives at risk to help others and do their duty of care, even when they have not had the appropriate PPE.
Healthcare workers and anyone showing any symptoms, even mild symptoms, please isolate and do not put others at risk as they may not recover from this.
Feel so sorry and helpless for my Uncle, Aunty and cousins, who are constantly in our thoughts. I’m hoping with everyone’s prayers, Uncle’s kindness, good deeds, and Uncle’s fighting spirit he will pull through. Please come back to us Uncle Peter.
St. Paul’s High School, Rangoon was founded by De La Salle Brothers in 1860.
After nationalization in 1965, most non-native Brothers left Burma.
The school was renamed as No. (6) Botathaung State High School.
U Ba Khin
1st in Burma
First Native Auditor General
Vipassana Teacher
U Ba Khin
Roll of Honor
SPHS Roll of Honor
SPHS used to have a “Roll of Honor” for outstanding Matriculates from 1951 to 1963.
Dr. Soe Win (1st in 1958)22 Scholarship Winners in SPHS5924 Scholarship Winners in SPHS60
Collegiate Scholarship Winners in 1963
SPHS had five students in the Top Five, seven students in the Top Ten and ten students in the Top Twenty.
Khin Maung U, Myo San / Freddie Ba San, Nyunt Wai / Victor Nyunt, Thein Wai, Aung Kyaw Zaw / Johnny Maung Maung and Khin Maung Zaw / Frank Gale chose to become Medical Doctor (Professor, Researcher, Registrar …)
Hla Min, Maung Maung Kyi and Aung Thu Yein / Brownie Way chose to become Engineer and/or Computer Scientist.
Min Oo received two Doctorates in Mathematics from Germany, and is Professor Emeritus of McMaster’s University in Canada.
Seated : Min Oo (2nd) Khin Maung U (1st) , Myo San (Freddie Ba San, 3rd, GBNF)
Kyaw Win was my crew mate at RUBC. On one of his birthdays, he offered Soon to Uzin Aung Chaw (Victor) and invited several former classmates.
Nyunt Wai (Victor) is retired Professor of Physiology. He also taught briefly in Malaysia. He published a collection of Kauk Kyaung Kabyars.
Myo Nyunt (Harry) is Past President of OPA (Old Paulian Association)
Khin Maung Zaw (Frank) is retired Medical Doctor from UK. He came back several times to see his mother and sisters. Sad to note that his mother and his eldest sister are GBNF.
OP 1
Visit to Maung Maung Kyi (SPHS63) in Wales
Maung Maung Kyi attended I.Sc.(A) at LeikKhone Intermediate College.
He also rowed at RUBC (Rangoon University Boat Club) along with Willie Soe Maung (Myint Soe, GBNF), Kyaw Wynn and me. We were awarded Full Green.
When Rangoon University was closed citing Security reasons (following the student protests for the anniversary of 7th July), he applied for State Scholarship to study at Dresden University in Germany. He received Dip, Ing (equivalent to Master’s) in Chemical Engineering with specialization in Pulp and Paper.
He worked for PPIC, Sittaung and Yay Ni Paper Mills.
He later moved to Wales, UK.
OP 5
My cousin nephew Dr. Khin Tun (Peter, GBNF) and his spouse Win Mar took us to visit Maung Maung Kyi and Khin May Than (ChE72) in Ogmore-by-the-sea.
OP 6
Myo Khin (SPHS63)
Myo Khin taught at RIT before moving to Japan. He received his Doctorate in Civil Engineering and worked as Professor.
He donated K100 Lakhs to YTU Library Project.
OP 7
Myint Lwin (Henry, SPHS55, GBNF)
He received his Civil Engineering degree in 1963 (after taking sabbatical to get married).
He was an organizer for SPZP-2000.
He is an accomplished vocalist.
OP 8
Victor Kyaw Phyo (GBNF)
He was my classmate in Middle School.
He was an Organizer for the Combined 1st BE Intake of 1964 and 1965.
In our days, EE (Electrical Engineering) Department offered two options : EC (Electrical Communications) and EP (Electrical Power).
Saya U Sein Hlaing (GBNF) served as inaugural Professor of Electrical Engineering.
It took several decades before EC (also known as EcE and Electronics Engineering) and EP became departments. Saya U Sein Win (GBNF) served as inaugural Professor of Electrical Power. Saya Dr. San Tint (GBNF) served as inaugural Professor of Electronics Engineering.
Ko Thein Swe (EP69, GBNF, 3rd BE Luyechun) annotated the Group Photo taken in 1969. I have updated the comments to reflect the change of status of the sayas and classmates.
EE69ers used to have gatherings in addition to the 69er Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Gatherings.
In addition to the 69er HCF (Health Care Fund), there is EE69er HCF.
Ko Sein Myint (EP69, RIT Rowing, Swimming & Water Polo) is a major donor to 69er HCF along with Ma Myint Myint (C69) and Ko Ivan Lee (M69). Ko Sein Myint is also a major donor to EE69er HCF.
Great Photo taken in August 1969
by Ko Thein Swe (EP69, GBNF)
EE69er
They were the humble, hard working classmates of EE69ers who usually shared knowledge with each other when someone could not catch up lectures/text-books. The great photo was taken in August 1969.
4th Row, L to R:-
Myint Swe (EP, Mogoke, ex-Steel mill, GBNF)
Thein Swe (EP, Meiktila, RIT Luyechun for 3rd BE, lost spouse, GBNF)
Aye Thein (EP, Mawlamyaing, ex-glass mill, Volleyball for RIT EE, lost spouse)
Sai Kham Pan (EP, Burma Selected for Badminton, Taunggyi, ex-Distiller)
Tun Oo Khaing (EP, Rakhine, ex-Paper mill, Hlyat Sit Sar Saung, GBNF)
Hla Paik (EP, Chaung Oo, ex-EPC)
Chit Tin (EC, Nyaung Oo, ex-MOGE, GBNF)
Sa Maung Maung (EP, Thaton, ex-Paper mill, Volley for RIT EE, EE69er HCF, lost spouse)
Mg Shwe (EP, ex-EPC, Treasurer of 69er HCF, EE69er HCF)
Oo Kyaw Hla (EC, ex-MOGE, Canada, GBNF)
Sai Hwet @ Myat Soe Lwin (EP, now in Ygn)
Aung Kyaw Pe (EP, ex-EPC, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia)
Khin Mg @ Hasan (EP, Saudi Arabia)
Front Row : Mostly Sayas
U Moe Aung (Tekkatho Moe War, Author, Editor, Publisher)
U (Saw) Khaing Oo
U Ba Myint (Retired Pro-Rector)
U Soe Paing (ex-UCC, retired from UN)
U Kyaw Tun (Saya of our sayas, President of RIT EE, GBNF)
U Sein Hlaing (EE Professor, GBNF)
U Tint Swe (Former Footballer for Prome Hall, Tennis, GBNF)
U Ba Lwin
U Sein Win (President of RIT Swimming, President of RIT Rowing, later EP Professor, GBNF)
U Thein Lwin (President of RIT Badminton, Singapore, GBNF)
U Tin Shwe (ex-ABAC, Uzin, GBNF)
U Sein Maung (ex-ABAC, attended SPZP-2000)
Ma Tin Tin @ Anne (EC, US)
Happy to send precious memory re-caller.
Absentees: Kyaw Sein (EP69, Myingyan, ex-cement mill, Singapore), Kyaw Soe (EC, ex-DCA, GBNF) Ko Toung @ Tom (EC, USA)
There are other Electrical classmates (63/64 intakes or 69/70/71 grads) such as
Minn Aung @ Hla Thoung (EP, ex-cement mill, Singapore
Surinder Singh (EP, Taung-gyi, Australia)
Aung Than (EP ? or quit. Pyinmana, playing cards and chess)
Than Htay (EP, Dawei, RIT Tennis, ex-EPC)
Ko Thoung? (EP?, ex-PWC)
Win Mg (RIT Swimming & Rowing, left for Bristol Tech College before graduation, ex-UBA, ex-private air line)
Tin Shwe (EP, Taungthar, ex-EPC)
Aye Thaw (EP, Kyaukpadaung, ex-EPC)
Ba Oak (EP, Shwe Bo, ex-EPC)
Khin Mg Tint (EP, Windwin-Meiktila, ex-EPC)
Myo Hein (EP, Meiktila, ex-Jute dept)
Thein Htun @ Michael (ex-sailor, jolly)
Kyi Shwin (ex-astrologer)
as far as I remember.
Regards and with Metta Thein Swe
Comments
After retirement, several Sayas and alumni moved back (e.g. from Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand) to Myanmar.
Some spend part of the year visiting their children and grandchildren in Australia, Hong Kong, New Zealand, UK, USA, etc.
Ko Aung Thu Yein (EC69, GBNF) wrote :
Ko Thein Swe,
A Brilliant Effort. In fact it is a time frame. We’ll keep it as long as we live. And we want our offspring and relatives to keep it and pass it on. First our Metta to our Parents/Guardians. Then to our mentors whoever they are. Without them we’ll never be Smart Engineers.We were blessed to be in that group. And our Buddhist Philosophy. Some of us have left and we’ll follow them suit later or sooner. While we are breathing let us be together near or far. Carry on. Well done! Chan Thar Ko Sake Myare Bar Zay,
Cheers, Aung Thu Yein
Ko Win Boh (Robert, EC69) wrote :
George (Lake) Win Maung left for Bristol Tech College as State Scholar to become Aeronautical Engr Radar & Radio License> He served with UBA (Union of Burma Airways) later known as BAC (Burma Airways Corporation ). He did not join DCA (Department of Civil Aviation. Saya U Soe Min (GBNF) & Robert Win-Boh joined DCA in 1970. Ko Kyaw Soe EC 68/69 (GBNF) & Ko Wunna Sithu EC 71 joined in 1972. Many others like Ko Kyaw Myo @ Uno EC 72 joined DCA in 1976/77 to become Aeronautical Airworthiness Officer (Instruments) & lately Dy Minister of T & C.
According to the Theravada Buddhist tradition, there are six Buddhist Councils. The last two were held in Burma.
Mandalay မန္တလေး
Ripley’s “Believe it or not” named U Khanti Kyauksar (inscriptions) of the Fifth ပဥ္စမ Buddhist Council (Synod) held in Mandalay as the “Largest Book” in the world.
The Council was held to celebrate the 2400th Year in Sasana Era.
King Mindon was the Sponsor.
Kaba Aye ကမ္ဘာအေး
U Nu & Sir U Thwin were prime movers for the Sixth ဆဌ Buddhist Council, which was held to celebrate the 2500th Year in Sasana Era.
Mahasi Sayadaw မဟာစည်ဆရာတော် acted as the Questioner.
Mingun Sayadaw မင်းကွန်းတရာတော် acted as the Reciter & Responder.
Mahasi & Mingun Sayadaws
The Guinness Book of World Records listed Tipialkadara Sayadaw Ashin Vicittathara as having an outstanding memory — the best at that time [in 1954]. Sayadaw served as the Chief Reciter (a la Ashin Upali and Ashin Ananda at the First Buddhist Council) at the Sixth Buddhist Council held at KabaAye (World Peace) Pagoda in Rangoon, Burma from 1954 – 1956.
Sayadaw could memorize, recall, and give exposition on 8027 pages of the Buddhist Scriptures known as Tipitaka / “Three Baskets” :
Vinaya – ဝိနည်းRules of monastic conduct
Sutta – သုတ္တန်Buddha’s discourses
Abhidhamma – အဘိဓမ္မာUltimate reality)
He took the 2nd – 5th Tipitakadara examinations and passed with distinction in both oral and written parts. Sayadaw served as an examiner for the first Tipikadara examination. Sir U Thwin requested him to take the examination. The rest is history.
UCC was founded by Sayas Dr. Chit Swe, U Soe Paing, U Myo Min and U Ko Ko Lay.
They are also known as Saya Chit (ချစ်), Saya Paing (ပိုင်), Saya Myo (မျိုး) and Saya Lay (လေး).
Among the founders, Saya Lay has the longest tenure at UCC, DCS and ICST, but he was the earliest to pass away.
Dr. Chit Swe(GBNF)
Dr. Chit Swe
Pioneer of Computer Systems, Applications & Education in Burma
Founder & Director of UCC
Former Rector, RASU
Taught & Supervised Maths in Rangoon, Mandalay, Bangkok & Sydney
Visiting Professor, Macquarie University, Australia
I have written several posts about Saya. See Posts
U Soe Paing
U Soe Paing
One day, the people on the UCC ferry shouted, “Saya Paing”. To their amazement, ICS U Paing (Saya’s father) came out. U Paing’s spouse Daw Oo Yin is the daughter of Sir Po Tha.
He is the second son of U Paing. He and his siblings Dr. Myo Paing, U Win Paing (Sayadaw U Wara, ChE70) and U Kyaw Paing (Putra Cup Player) are excellent golfers and Champions at RGC (Rangoon Golf Club) and BGC (Burma Golf Club).
Hevmatriculated from SPHS (St. Paul’s High School) in 1956 along with Saya U Ko Ko Lay (GBNF), U Win Htein (PWD, GBNF). Bohmu Percy (Navy), U Richard Than Se (ChE), and U Ba Min (Astronomy & Maths).
He stood 13th in Matriculation and was awarded Collegiate Scholarship.
In 1958, he received two Gold Medals. One was for highest Total Marks in I.Sc exams. Another was for joint highest marks in Maths in I.Sc exams.
He rowed and coxed at RUBC. He won prizes including the Inter-Hall Fours.
He was selected as a States Scholar to attend Stanford University along with U Ko Ko Lay and Bohmu Percy. He received his BS and MS in EE (Electrical Engineering). He did programming for his studies and also worked part-time as computer operator.
Upon his return to Burma, he joined the EE Department as Assistant Lecturer. His sponsor was UBARI (Union of Burma Applied Research Institute).
At a research congress held in the Main Campus, he presented a paper covering Digital Logic and Circuits. Dr. Chit Swe was impressed. Through U Nyi Nyi (EE saya, who moved to the UK), Saya Paing gained contact with Dr. Chit Swe. The rest is history.
He promised Saya Chit to recruit his top students to join the UCC Project, but the long delay of the Project to get funded made the task difficult.
He did another Masters (this time in Computer Science) at Southampton University in UK.
For a detailed story of Saya’s life and work at RIT, UCC and overseas as a UN Advisor, read his articles in English and Burmese. They are available in SCRIB_D.
Sayagadaw & Classmate
Saya U Soe Paing in CaliforniaSaya U Soe Paing in New Jersey (2018)Saya U Soe Paing in 2009
Sayagadaw Daw Saw Yu Tint (Alice, T69) was my classmate at RIT.
She and Saya have hosted several UCC mini-gatherings at their house.At one of the gatherings in 2007, Ko Po (U Htin Kyaw, Peter Wun) not only attended the gathering, but gave me a ride back home. He also briefly mentioned about his four-month detention.
After retirement
After retiring from the UN, Saya visited UK and USA to spend time with his children & grandchildren.
During his trips to New Jersey, there would be several UCC-RIT gatherings.
Saya meditates and plays golf (for specific days of the week). He paused both activities when he had a minor ailment (hurting his back and leg).
Per advice of Sayagadaw’s medical friends, Saya had a surgery in Singapore.
Saya has resumed playing golf. He now uses a golf cart ant the Seniors’ Tee.
U Myo Min
U Myo Min
He matriculated from SPHS in 1958. He is a class mate of Dr. Soe Win (Retired Rector, YUFL)
He is the younger brother of Saya U Tin U (C), Saya U Ba Than (M), Dr. Daw Win Hlaing, Daw Myint Thwe, Dr. Myo Tint, U Tin Htoon (A60). He is the elder brother of U Thaung Lwin (EC66) and Daw Cho Cho Hlaing.
He is my cousin. His father is my maternal uncle, who passed away in his fifties. His mother is my paternal aunt, who lived to be 94.
He won medals for standing first in I.Com (Intermediate of Commerce) and B.Com (Bachelor of Commerce). He majored in Accounting.
He completed CA (Chartered Accountant) in the UK and worked as Computer Systems Analyst for IBM UK for 4+ years.
One day, he had a call from his mother. She asked Saya if he wanted to come back to Burma to help Dr. Chit Swe the UCC Project.
Saya was studying and working in UK when his father passed away.
He returned to Burma and joined UCC as Applications Division Manager.
Later, he gracefully allowed U Ko Ko Lay to manage the Scientific Applications Division. He was contented to be the Business Application Manager.
He taught not only at UCC but also at the Institute of Economics and other Departments.
He studied and passed the Abhidhamma “Thingyo” course.
He did his Masters in Systems Engineering at the University of Lancaster in UK.
Life After UCC
He moved to Singapore and US. He retired after working for Seagate Technology and Connor.
He is an avid reader and an accomplished conversationalist.
His spouse is Daw Kin Kin Chit Maung (RIT English, UNESCO, sister of Saya U Tin Htut (M60). They attend several meditation retreats every year (in San Jose, California and at Hse Mile Gone monastery).
Dr. Soe Win wrote :
In addition to being a classmate at matriculation (St Paul’s), Ko Myo Min and his roommate Ko Mya Maung (another Paulian) welcomed me in London and took me to the flat in the same house, which they had kindly rented for me (and Ko Tin Maung Thein, another Paulian and electrical engineer). Ko Mya Maung later became his brother-in-law. Ko Myo Min is a super-likeable person who has now immersed himself in Vipassana practice.
KMZ wrote :
One episode stood out every time I thought about Saya Myo and Ma Ma Kin.
Some point in my life at UCC, I became a Passport expert, a complex process those days. I learned of all the processes including where to go for what, how much ‘tea money’ to pay to who at what point etc. This knowledge was acquired following many friends went through those processes.
Ma Ma Kin was working at UNICEF, and one day Saya Myo summoned me to help with the passport for her as she needed it to go to BKK. Some of you might remember the forms, “ကိုယ် ရေး ရာဇဝင်” to be filled out 7 copies. Saya Myo and Ma Ma Kin came from very large family, so was both sides of their parents. Saya Myo has 9 siblings. Ma Ma Kin has 8 siblings. I do not exactly recall who filled in these forms, it could have been me, 6 sets of all names, work, addresses in 7 copies.
U Ko Ko Lay (GBNF)
Saya U Ko Ko Lay
He matriculated from SPHS in 1956 along with U Soe Paing, U Win Htein, Bohmu Percy Maung Maung, U Ba Min and U Than Se (Richard).
He is the elder brother of U Than Htut (M67, RUBC Gold), Maw and Zaw (RUBC Gold, GBNF).
He studied BSCE and MSCE at Stanford University in the US.
Upon his return to Burma, he joined PWD as Assistant Engineer.
He was recruited by his friend U Soe Paing to help with the UCC Project in general and the design and implementation of UCC Building in particular.
He transferred to UCC as Operations Division Manager and later served as Scientific Applications Division Manager.
At UCC, he is fondly called as Saya Lay.
He studied Systems Engineering at the University of Lancaster in the UK.
He was Professor at the Department of Computer Science.
He was Professor of Information Systems at the Institute of Computer Science and Technology (ICST).
Chit Hlaing — Co-author of “Myanmar Socialist Lanzin”
Chit Hlaing — Navy Commander
Chit Kaung
Chit Khin — Movie director.
Chit Khin— Youngest child of Dr. Chit Swe and Daw Khin Khin Latt
Chit Khine — Secretary, Rangoon Turf Club
Chit Khine — Saya; Physics
Chit Ko Ko — Bohmu; Secretary of the Revolutionary Council & associated government.
Chit Ko Ko
Chit Lwin
Chit Maung — Movie actor and director.
Chit Maung, Journal Kyaw— Journalist and publisher; Spouse : Journal Kyaw Ma Ma Lay
Chit Maung — Entrepreneur; Businesses include Amyotha Yoke Shin, Carlton Cinema, Khit Ah Kyaik Nylon, U Chit Maung & Sons.
Chit Myaing — Colonel; Last of the 17 member Revolutionary Council to pass away; Ambassador to Yugoslavia and the UK; Moved to the USA; Supported Sayadaw U Kelasa; Brothers : Chit Hlaing, Chit Pyaing; Daughter : Amy Chit Myaing (Lei Lei Myaing, T70) retired from IMF.
Chit Nyi Nyi
Chit Oo Nyo — Author and lecture
Chit Pe (M69, GBNF) — Succumbed to Covid
Chit Po Po (M69) — RIT Rowing; Harp
Chit Sabai — Vocalist
Chit San Win — Author
Chit Sein
Chit Shwe
Chit Soe — Swimmer, Diplomat
Chit Swe, Dr. — Founder Director of UCC; Rector, RASU; Supervised students in Burma, Bangkok and Sydney
Dr. Chit Swe in Sydney with his former students
Chit Swe, Sandaya — Composer and pianist
Chit Swe — Lecturer in Political Science (during BSPP era)
Chit Than — Thaing Saya
Chit Thaung — Minister in the Care Taker Government
Chit Thein — Author of High School Chemistry
Chit Tin (EC69, GBNF) — Worked for MOC/MOGE and in Singapore.
Chit Tin — Spouse of my cousin aunt.; He was never sick; The other is U Kwee Si (Ah Yoe Ku Saya, father of Ko Sein and Ko Shein); Both passed away the very day they sort of “fell sick”.
