U Htein Win (M66) & Daw Myint Myint (C69) are entrepreneurs and philanthropists.
They founded Myit Che International Trading Company.
They donated to RIT-related activities and selected charities.
Daw Myint Myint
Proud Supporter
Regular attendee at the 69er Gatherings $ hosted some.
Major donor to the 69er Health Care Fund along with Ivan Lee (U Khin Maung Oo, M69) and U Sein Myint (K K Wong, EP69)
In memory of U Htein Win, she donated K100 Lakhs to the 69er Health Care Fund.
Donation 1
Breakfast Gathering
Hosted the August Breakfast Gatherings at Royal Rose (Taw Win Hnin Si) Restaurant to celebrate her birthday.
In August 2018, the co-host was U Soe Thein (Peter)
In August 2019, the co-host was U Than Oo.
Daw Myint Myint and U Soe Thein
Lunch Gathering
A few years back, she hosted a Lunch Gathering at Western Park Royal, Kandawgyi to welcome Daw Nyunt Nyunt Wai (Millie Hoe, T69, Germany).
Welcome lunch gathering for Daw Nyunt Nyunt Wai
Annual Dinner Gathering
69er Annual Dinner was often held at M3.
She sponsored at least one table at Annual Dinner for the past few years.
YTU Library Modernization
In 2017, she donated K100 Lakhs for YTU Library Modernization Project.
Donation 2
Memories
Civil Group at 40th Anniversary (in 2009)
2009
Donation to YTU Library Modernization Project; Donation accepted by U Wynn Htain Oo, Nan Khin Nwe & team
Myint 1Myint 2Myint 3
At 69er Monthly Breakfast Gathering; U Aung Min is a core Organizer; Swe Swe Kyaw Zin (daughter of U Kyaw Zin) brought 69er Caps & 69er Hats donated by UKZ
Burma Astro Research Bureau was formed around 1980s.
Experts on Veda & allied subjects (e.g. Astronomy, Palmistry, Numerology) served as Researchers, Advisors & Teachers
Courses : Basic & Higher Level
Subjects : ဂဏိတ၊ ဖလိတ၊ သံဟိတ၊
BARB published the “Jotisha Veda” Magazine. I wrote articles with my name and two pen names.
BARB published Veda Calendar.
Ad-hoc sessions at selected houses for Discussion & Live training sessions by Veda sayas — U Myint Sein, U Khin Aung Bo, U Than Htay, U Myint Lwin & Bogyi Kyaw Zan Hla.
With Veda Sayas
Executive Committee
U Myaing (President) Published Jotisha Veda Magazine
Dr. Chit Swe (Vice President) Pioneer of Computer Systems & Applications in Burma; Founder & Director, UCC; Rector, RASU; Taught at RU, Thailand & Australia
Dr. Chit Swe
U Min Wun (Vice President) Member, Pyeikkadein Ah Kyan Pay Ah Phwe (ပြက္ခဒိန်အကြံပေးအဖွဲ့ ); Professor, Civil Engineering, RIT; Advisor, Regional College Project; Advisor, Bagan Restoration Project; Consultant, CalTrans
U Min Wun
U Kyaw Min Studied Architecture at MIT; Part-time Head of Architecture Department, RIT; Pen name : Pithuka Kyaw Min
U Aye Win Kyaw Lecturer, Civil Engineering, RIT; Taught Astronomy at BARB & MARB; Family suffered Double Tragedy at Pyin Oo Lwin Clinic
U Aye Win Kyaw (Center)
U Myint Sein SPHS64; B.Com (IT) in 1968; Ran family business; Principal, BARB : Requested me to provide programs for Vedic Calculations; Founder, IDEA Astrology; Visiting Professor, Taing Yin Say (တိုင်းရင်းဆေး ပညာ School of Indigenous Medicine); Expertise : Medical Astrology
U Myint Sein 1U Myint Sein 2
U Nyan Win (Secretary)
U Tin Aung (Joint Secretary) Expertise : Phalita
U Mya Sein (Treasurer) Engineer
U Win Pe (Joint Treasurer) His ancestors published Myanmar Ephemeris
MARB
After the demise of key EC members, BARB was reorganized.
It evolved into Myanmar Astro Research Bureau with U Khin Aung Bo as President.
MARB lost Saya U Myint Lwin early.
After U Khin Aung Bo’s demise, U Kyaw Myint became President.
Dr. Kan Nyunt (Bagyi Kan) is the oldest (but still very active) among the sayas and sayamas.
Dr. Kan Nyunt (Seated Right)
U Myint Sein
Principal of BARB
Friend from Primary School
Requested me to develop programs for Veda calculations and predictions. I supervised two UCC students. Ko Win Latt (UCC) developed Win Horo. Ko Zaw Tun (UCC) developed a Prolog program for prediction.
Ko Win LattKo Zaw Tun (Last Row)
Visiting Professor at the School of Indigenous Medicine
Founder, IDEA Astrology
Passed away peacefully while watching TV at home
It was good news & bad news for his son, who was back in Yangon to take examination for Master Mariner. He lost his father, but was present at his father’s last journey.
U Aye Win Kyaw
Saya, Civil Engineering Department, RIT.
Taught Astronomy at BARB & MARB
Passed away at a hospital in Pyin Oo Lwin
His son, who visited Saya, passed away earlier while taking a shower at the hospital.
Double tragedy for the family.
U Khin Aung Bo
President of MARB
B. Ed
Taught at GTI, BARB & MARB
Expertise include Thanhita
Fell backwards while reciting Pathan
Hospitalized
Passed away on May 13, 2020 at the age of 80.
U Khin Aung Bo 1U Khin Aung Bo 2
U Myint Lwin
Vice President, MARB
Taught at BARB & MARB
Expertise include Phalita
Helped with the early Veda Calendar
Passed away earliest among three sayas (in the photo)
U Than Htay, U Khin Aung Bo, U Myint Lwin
U Than Htay
Vice President, MARB
Taught at BARB & MARB; Published books & notes on တြိစက္ကဇာတာ and ဒသာ
Expertise include Ganita
Medical Technologist
U Than Htay 1U Than Htay 2
U Hla Win
Vice President, MARB
Member of “Myanmar Pyeikkdadein Ah Kyan Pay Ah Phwe.”
Mechanical Engineer & Entrepreneur
Busy not only with his work, but also with SPZP & HMEE
Worked for Joint Venture Corporation (JVC) formed by relatives
Found an advertisement in a newspaper to apply for a Government Scholarship.
Selected to study Agricultural Engineering in USA
Received Masters from Virginia Tech
Came back to Burma on an Ocean Liner with Saya Allen Htay (GBNF), Saya U Soe Paing, Saya U Ko Ko Lay (GBNF) & U Than Pe. They became close friends on the two-month long journey.
M/Agri Saya at RIT
Upon his return, he was assigned to Agricultural Institute in Yezin. Before reporting for duty, he visited RIT.
Sayagyi U Ba Than asked if he would like to join Agri Sub-Department of Mechanical Engineering. Sayagyi said that some students were not at ease following lectures given by visiting Soviet lecturers via interpreters.
President, RIT Thaing
Played Defender on RIT Saya Soccer team
Life after RIT
Worked in Thailand & USA
USA
Attended RIT Alumni Gatherings
U Tin Maung Nyunt 1
Donated $500 for the Training Component of YTU Library Modernization project.
U Tin Maung Nyunt’s Donation
He is a day older than Saya Allen. Their birthdays are December 30 & 31.
Monthly Breakfast Gathering with Saya Allen, U Ko Ko Aye, Ko Thein Naing (Patrick) and me. Saya Allen & U Ko Ko Aye are now GBNF.
U Tin Maung Nyunt & Saya Allen
Saya U Soe Paing visited him in Milpitas, California. We had a lunch gathering at a restaurant.
U Tin Maung Nyunt 2
He enjoyed Hiking & Tennis, but had to suspend due to Jara and Byadi
Volunteer for establishing Taungpulu Kaba Aye Monastery in Northern California.
Updates
He had operations (one quite early and another a few years back).
69ers held the Golden Jubilee of Graduation on December 14, 2019 at the YTU Assembly Hall. The Acariya Pu Zaw Pwe had 30+ sayas and sayamas.
GJ in 2019
This post & related posts should bring back sweet memories.
They might instill Samvega (Sense of Urgency) noting that more than 40% of 69ers (128 members) are GBNF
Contents
Membership
Status
Major & Mini Reunions
1964
1965 – 1969
1970 – 1998
1999 : 30th Anniversary of Graduation
2009 : 40th Anniversary of Graduation
2014 : 50th Anniversary of Admission to RIT
2019 : Golden Jubilee of Graduation
Reunion in 2017
Mingalars in 2018
More than 5 decades ago
F-Block Soccer
Gatherings
Health Care Fund
A69
M69
C69
EE69
Other 69ers
Mingalars in Sept 2018
Athletes
Mini-gathering in New Jersey, USA
Memories
Membership
Most members
matriculated in 1963
attended the last I.Sc.(A)
were admitted to the first ever 2nd BE in November 1964
graduated in 1969
Some members
took sabbatical and graduated in later years
left RIT before graduation
are seniors who took sabbatical
have medical problems
are GBNF.
Status
There were originally 300+ members (close to 320).
The GNBF list has grown over the years.
In December 2017, there were 79 members.
In June 2018, the list had 82.
In May 2019, the list had 88.
In 2020 & 2021, 18 succumbed to Covid.
In June 2025, the list had 128.
Old version of GBNF List
Major & Mini Reunions
Anniversaries
1999 : 30th Anniversary of Graduation
2009 : 40th Anniversary of Graduation
2014 : 50th Anniversary of Admission to RIT (first ever 2nd BE)
2019 : True Golden Jubilee (Dec 14, 2019 at YTU Assembly Hall)
Mini Reunions
Monthly Breakfast Gathering
Welcoming members visiting from abroad
Annual Dinner & Entertainment
1964
With the introduction of the then new Education Systems, 320+ students who had passed the I.Sc.(A) exams were admitted to the first ever 2nd BE.
2nd BE
1965 – 1969
The members had to choose the major. There were eight Engineering Departments :
Architecture
Chemical
Civil
Mechanical
Metallurgy
Mining
Electrical
Textile
Many schose Civil and Mechanical.
Electrical Engineering students have to chose Option EP (Power) or EC (Communications) in 5th BE.
In 1969, 30+ EP and 12 EC students graduated.
Four EC graduates : U Kyaw Soe, U Aung Thu Yein (Brownie) U Chit Tin & U Oo Kyaw Hla are GBNF.
1970 – 1998
Most worked for the Government Departments (EPC, HIC, Irrigation, PWD, PTC, RIT, …)
Some worked for private companies & family business.
A few moved overseas to study or work.
1999 : 30th Anniversary of Graduation
Some 69ers organized a Reunion & PZP to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of Graduation. U Tint Lwin (Daniel, M69) e-mailed me about the Reunion. Daw Saw Yu Tint (Alice, T69) and Saya U Soe Paing e-mailed me photos of the Reunion and some other gatherings in Yangon. Some organizers such as U Sein Win (Nar Yee) & U Kyaw Than are now GBNF.
RIT Alumni Newsletter
I started the “RIT Alumni International Newsletter” in April, 1999.
U Khin Maung Zaw (KMZ, EC76) designed & implemented http://www.ex-rit.org a month or two later. I was the Editor & Content Provider for the web site. Several sayas and alumni submitted articles, news & photos.
RIT Alumni International was formed with Saya Allen Htay (C58, GBNF) as President@. The main objective was to host the First RIT Grand Reunion & Saya Pu Zaw Pwe in October 2000.
I wrote the “SAYA PUZAW PWE” poem, 64 posts on “Countdown to the Reunion” and 36 posts on “Post-Reunion”.
2009 : 40th Anniversary of Graduation
The celebration took place on January 30, 2019.
Electrical
EE69
Chit Tin, Tun Oo Khine, Aung Thuyein, Thein Swe, Khin Maung Win, Aung Gyi Shwe … are GBNF
Mechanical
M69
Myint Thein (Kabar), Sein Win, Soe Win, Kyaw Nyunt, Yi Pinn … are GBNF
Civil
C69
Textile & Chemical
T69 & ChE69
Hla Shwe is GBNF.
2014 : 50th Anniversary of Admission to RIT
Shwe YaDuPhoto Disc
2019 : Golden Jubilee of Graduation
Reunion & Pu Zaw Pwe
It took place on December 14, 2019 at the YTU Assembly Hall.
PZP in 2019
Attendees from overseas include
Hla Min (USA)
Aung Khin (USA)
Tin Tin (Ann, USA)
Tint Lwin (Daniel, Singapore)
Lin Lin Aung (Singapore)
Dinner & Entertainment
It was held at U Aung Min’s old office in PWD compound.
Reunion in 2017
Place : Diamond Hall, M3 Food Center, Bahan
Date : December 22, 2017
Time : starting at 5:30 pm
Organizers : U Aung Min (M69) & team
Records : Photos & Videos to be uploaded to the RIT 69ers Facebook Pages.
Benefits for attending the event:
Lots of Fun
Vitamin F (for Friendship)
Vitamin LL (for Long Life)
Food (Buffet)
Drinks (wine/whisky/ Beer/soft / plain tea etc.)
Entertainment : opening song, KTV, lucky draw & parcel game
Sharing memory of your youth
Feel free to contribute (from zero to infinity)
We welcome your idea to make the event more fruitful, exciting, and memorable
Mingalars in Sept 2018
U Aung Min (M69) wrote :
First Mingalar
This is the invitation to all disciplines of RIT69ers to come and wish for good health and well being of our friend Ko Ngwe Tun Tun (C69).
His birthday was on the 6th September.
He will host the breakfast gathering as follows.
Venue: Royal Rose (Taw Win Hnin Si) Restaurant
Time: 7 to 8:30 am
Date: 30 September (Sunday)
Second Mingalar
Sayagyi U Ba Than (Retired Professor of Mechanical Engineering) will turn 88 on 2 October 2018.
There will be Saya Puzawpwe (by all disciplines) to pay homage to Sayagyi at his place (Winner Inn) after our breakfast gathering.
The event is open to all.
Your participation is highly appreciated.
Contributions for Garawa are welcome.
More than 5 decades ago
by Tin Aung Win (M69)
Six friends. Four have passed away.
L to R, Khin Sein, Tin Aung (GBNF), Tin Aung Win (Oscar), Sein Win (GBNF), Thein Maung (GBNF), Soe Win (GBNF)
F-Block Soccer
F Block Soccer Team
The photo was shared by Myint Maung (Bugyi, EP69) with the help of Win Maung (Lake).
Kabar, Brownie & Tun Oo Khine are GBNF.
Gatherings
69ers have several types of gatherings:
Monthly breakfast gathering
M69ers meet at Royal Rose Restaurant (Taw Win Hnin Si). They are joined by classmates from other disciplines such as Civil (e.g. Han Sein), Chemical (e.g. Albert Kyaw Min), Electrical (e.g. Ko Shwe), Textile (e.g. Saw Yu Tint) and Architecture (e.g. Uzin Bobby).
Usually, there is a host to celebrate an event (Birthday, Anniversary).
For several years, EE69ers met at least every two months.
69er Health Care Fund
I was invited to a meeting held at U Aung Min’s house. We had Mohinga.
Ad hoc gatherings
Welcoming visiting classmates from overseas
Dana by classmates from overseas
Garawa to Sayagyi U Ba Than (around his birthday : October 2) by M69 and some from other disciplines. The Garawa for 2018 took place at Winner Inn on September 30, 2018.
The venues for the gatherings include Kandawgyi Westin Royal, Crystal Jade Restaurant, Shwe Bei & Royal Rose Restaurant.
There may be breakfast or lunch gatherings.
Anniversary gathering
In 1999, there was a gathering and mini-SPZP to celebrate the 30th
Anniversary of Graduation. U Tint Lwin (Daniel, M69) and Daw Saw Yu Tint
(Alice, T69) e-mailed me about the event. I informed the sayas and
alumni in a Newsletter (which became known as RIT Alumni International
Newsletter).
Sad to note that some organizers for that event (U Kyaw Than, U “NarYi” Sein Win …) are GBNF
In 2009, the group celebrated the 40th Anniversary.
In 2014, the group celebrated the Golden Jubilee of Admission to the first ever 2nd BE in November 1964.
The true Golden Jubilee (50th Anniversary of Graduation) was held on December 14, 2019 at the YTU Assembly Hall.
Health Care Funds
69er HCF
U Aung Min (M69) is Chair.
He sends out monthly and quarterly reports for Income, Expenditure & GBNF list.
Donors
Major donors include
Ivan Lee (U Khin Maung Oo, M69, New Jersey)
U Sein Myint (EP69, Singapore)
Daw Myint Myint (C69)
Many donate once or more at the 69er Gatherings and for special celebrations.
Volunteers for the 69er HCF
Aung Min (M)
Myo Nyunt (C)
Zau Lai (EE)
Kyaw Zin (EE)
Myint Thein (M, GBNF)
Ko Shwe (EE)
Myint Sein (M, GBNF)
Kyaw Nyunt (M, GBNF)
Sein Win (Pet)
Yee Pinn (Maung Maung Kaung, M, GBNF)
“David” Myint Thein (M)
Win Lwin (M)
Chit Tin (EE, GBNF)
Aung Gyi Shwe (EE)
Ma Myint Myint (C)
Ma Thaung Htwe (C)
Kyaw Min Thein (C)
Moe Hein (ChE)
“Albert” Kyaw Min (ChE)
Hla Shwe (Tex, GBNF)
Sai Kyaw Myint (Met)
For Upper Burma/Myanmar
Myint Aung (M, GBNF)
Sein Tun (C)
For overseas
Yi Yi Khaing (Vilma, ChE)
Nyunt Nyunt Wai (Millie, Tex)
Tint Lwin (Daniel, M)
Hla Min (EC)
Ivan (Khin Maung Oo, M)
Sein Myint (K K Wong, EP)
Win Boh (Robert, EC)
Myo Khin, Dr. (C)
EE69er HCF
U Sein Myint is a major donor of the fund.
The donors’ list is maintained by Sa Maung Maung (EP69) with the help of U Shwe (EP69).
Chit Tin, Aung Thu Yein (Brownie), Tun Oo Khine, Khin Maung Win, Aung Gyi Shwe, Tommy, Soe Win, Abdul Rauf, Thein Swe, & Oo Kyaw Hla are GBNF.
Sa Maung Maung, Myint Maung, & Myat Soe Lwin (Sai Hwet) take part in the 69er gatherings.
A69
There were seven in the class. See Post
Kyaw Kyaw
Thet Tun : moved to Taiwan
Myo Tun (Bobby, Ashin Pannagavesaka) : Itinerant Bhikkhu See Post
Tobias K Ku (Toby, GBNF) : succumbed to Covid
Aung Khin : worked in Botswana; moved to Seattle, Washington
Thwin Thwin Aye Hmi (Olive)
Tin Maung Hla (GBNF) : Proponent of Abhidhamma
M69
M69ers pay respect to Sayagyi U Ba Than every year around his birthday (October 2). They are joined by other 69ers as time permits.
Ivan Lee (M69)
He is a major donor for the 69er Health Care Fund.
Golden Sponsor of SPZP-2000
Hosts Annual gathering of RIT and UCC sayas & alumni at his house in New Jersey.
Life time Platinum at Bridge (competitive card game).
PEs from New York State and New Jersey.
Had a private company.
Has 11 family members (two daughters, two son-in-laws, six grand children).
See Posts
U Tin Tun (M69, GBNF)
He was my classmate in Std IV(D) of St. Paul’s High School. Like most transfer students, the Brothers put me in Section D. He was the top student in our section. I was a close second.
For various reasons, he did not find much time to study for the Matriculation. He rebounded in I.Sc.(A) and at RIT.
He was called “Phone Gyi”. His beloved mother would bring lunch and feed him. He was the envy of most students, who had to bring their lunch or buy lunch with their pocket money (typically 25 pyas).
He studied Naval Architecture. Even after retirement, he taught interested students.
U Tint Lwin (Daniel, M69)
Daniel
Younger brother of Saya U Thein Lwin (EE)
Matriculated from MEHS
Retired Associate Professor, NTU, Singapore
Organizer of the 69er SPZPs
Guitarist and Vocalist
See Posts
U Aung Min (M69)
Aung Min
He was my classmate in I.Sc.(A). Our roll numbers were close.
Chair of the 69er HCF and a core organizer for 69er events.
See Posts
U Tin Shein (M69)
We were in Saya Des’s section in 2nd BE.
He is also called “Phone Gyi”.
He was a member of the RIT Chinlon team that won the Inter Institute tournament.
U Htay Aung (M69)
Burma Selected
Burma Selected in Water Polo for 5th SEAP Games.
Star swimmer & Captain of RIT water polo team.
Won several events (mostly free style) : 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m and 2000m cross lake (from RUBC to Dubern).
His spouse Daw Than Than was Burma Selected sprinter, SEAP & Asian Games Champion.
U Tin Htut (Harry, M69)
Harry
Wrote under several pen names including Mon Yu.
Matriculated from Sacred Heart High School.
Senior 69er
Stays fit by doing exercises (e.g. Tai Chi) and singing songs.
U Aung Myint (M69)
Taught at RIT & Singapore Polytechnic.
Spends time between Singapore & New Zealand.
Hobbies including Painting & Sharing motivational messages.
U Kyaw Nyunt (M69, GBNF)
Represented RIT in Tennis. The team won the Inter-Institute Tournament.
Kyaw Nyunt
He often visited his son in the US.
Saw I Zeyar Linn (M69)
He is GBNF.
U Myint Thein (Kabar, M69, GBNF)
One of two Myint Theins in the Class of 69.
One was named Maung Kabar after the cartoon character of our younger days.
During one of my visits to Yangon, he picked me up to attend the Monthly Breakfast Gathering of the 69ers.
He was an active organizer for the 69ers.
He had medical examination in Singapore and India. He became weak to have a transplant.
He passed away in Yangon.
Thirty five or so 69ers were present for Kabar’s Last Journey.
His spouse predeceased him.
He raised his large extended family well.
His family invited the 69ers to the Yet Lei Soon Kwyay.
Kabar in 2009Soon Kwyay for Kabar Five Myints
U Tin Myint (M69, GBNF)
U Tin Myint (John T Lee, Lee Tan Choy, M69) passed awayin California.
He was Luyechun for 4th BE. He played Table Tennis for RIT.
TM
From Daw Saw Yu Tint (Alice)
It was in 2015 at Fremont phonegyi kyung. I was leaving when he called out “Alice pyan pyee lar?” I nodded and waved him goodbye without realizing that would be my last for him!! Dear Ko Tin Myint may you rest in peace. And Lyo I am so very sorry. Please accept our deepest condolences.
From U Thein Swe (GBNF)
I remembered, when we stayed in C hostel-hall during RIT days, the tiger-skin (belongs to KoTin Myint) was stolen. He did not get angry and continued to boil tea- water.
From U Myo Min
Ko Tan Choy (Ko Tin Myint) is my intimate friend. Rest in peace, my dear.
From U Kyaw Thein
Rest in Peace.
From David Myint Thein
Rest In Peace, Ko Tin Myint. Lyo Kyin Sein was my classmate when we were attending I.Sc A at Myitkyina Intermediate College and reached RIT together in 1964. Please accept my deepest sympathies to you and your family
From Robert Win-Boh
He came to Benny Tan (M70)’s house to pick me up. He drove to halfmoon bay monastery & along the southern coast of S.F on my second last visit to USA in 2009. He was a close friend during RIT days. Rest in peace my friend John TM & deepest condolences to Mabel LKS + family from Rob W-B Australia.
From U Han Sein (GBNF)
RIP.
From Duwa Zau Lai
I am really sorry to hear the news of Ko Tin Myint. I remember that he was a good player of table tennis. His better half Lyo K S is one of our Myitkyina crowd. My sincere condolences to the bereaved family.
From Sai Kyaw Myint
Rest in Peace, Tan Choy. He was class mate when we were in Taunggyi. Lyo Kyin Sein was my room mate in first list in R I T 63-64. Both of they are very close friends of us. I’m so sad to hear it.
From U Aung Min
Sadness, Astonishment, Condolences & Remembrances. MIXED UP in my heart. REST IN PEACE Ko Tin Myint (GBNF 80)
Hi friends It is ALARMING ALARMING ALARMING. We have made a record. RIT69ers lost 4 classmates within 66 days.
Take Care
From U Ngwe Tun (Tun Tun)
Rest in Peace.
From U Kyaw Nyunt (GBNF)
Surprise …… RIP. KTM.
From Naw Mu Mu Aye
My sincere condolences and deepest sympathy to my friend Lyo and family. May Ko Tin Myint’s soul rest in peace.
From U Kyaw Min Thein
RIP
U Chit Po Po (M69, GBNF)
He rowed for RIT. He was an excellent Harpist.
CPP
U Win Boh (Robert, EC69) wrote :
It is with my great sadness, to inform you that our close friend Ko Chit Po Po (M69, beloved husband of Dr. Daisy Saw) passed away at Asia-Taw Win Private Hospital YGN on 15 Jan 2011 Saturday early morning.
I have phoned his brother-in-Law Stanley Saw (M71) in New Zealand to convey our 69ers’ condolence.
His daughter Thiri Po in Sydney will be leaving soon to YGN for funeral.
Kindly pass on this message to Ko Chit Po Po’s friends far and near.
U Thein Swe (EP69, GBNF) wrote :
It is sad news. Ko Chit Po Po (M69, ex-irrigation, tall and smiling Yangonite) passed away.
He and his brother (Dr ?) U Chit Ko Ko were close friends of my spouse’s brothers.
Before he went back to Yangon he stayed in Cambodia, Malaysia and Thailand, etc. After he quit Irrigation Dept he ran an engineering (medium sized) company of Installation and Services for Air-cons and refrigerators, etc. in Lanmadaw Township.
He was a friendly classmate.
Unwillingly or in sadness we have to lose another friend.
U Tin Myint (John, M69, GBNF) wrote :
It is a shock to me in hearing the sad news of Ko Chit Po Po, who was a very close friend, co-worker and also my lunch mate in the Irrigation Department at 81/2 mile workshop location.
He, I and another classmate rode the same Mazda car to work and coming back from work everyday.
He and I ate lunch everyday.
I still remember vividly that during lunch time, after opened his lunch box and discovered fried shrimps, he would offer me his jumbo shrimps and skip his lunch.
I enjoyed shrimps while he had no interest in shrimps.
He and I usually had one e-mail/year with exception of having two e-mails the most.
This year I received his e-mail once and I tried to have more e-mails and more info from him.
Now I received this sad news.
U Aung Thu Yein (EC69, GBNF) wrote :
Our Colleague/Comrade/Friend – Chit Po Po,
We will miss you.
Just talking about you a few days ago.
Why so fast?
Why so sudden !!!
U Sein Tin (“Omega”, Pathein, M 69) wrote :
We are feeling very sorry.
Our ages are at the sunset.
So take care of our health first and last.
Ivan Lee (Khin Maung Oo, M 69) wrote :
Dr. Daisy Saw and family:
Please accept my deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
We will remember him forever.
Daw Yi Yi Khaing (Vilma, ChE69) wrote :
I have a photo, which was taken at our gathering on 17 March 2010 by 69ers for KCPP’s visit to Singapore.
We were all very happy to meet him then!!
C69
Daw Myint Myint (C69)
She and her spouse U Htein Win (M66) are successful entrepreneurs.
She is a major donor to the 69er Health Care Fund.
She is also a major donor for the YTU Modernization Project.
She sponsored several tables at the 69er gatherings.
See Posts
U Myo Nyunt (C69)
He, his daughter and his son-in-law are RIT alumni. His grand daughter is attending 2nd Year classes at YTU. They cover Three Generations. See Post
U Han Sein (C69, GBNF)
He is a Tone Kyaw. See Post
U Nyi Hla Nge (C69)
He is a retired Deputy Minister.
He served as Professor of Civil Engineering and Rector of YTU.
He is a Past President of MES.
He was awarded Wunna Kyaw Htin.
He is an eligible bachelor.
Saw Yan Naing (C69, GBNF)
U Aung Min (M69), Chair, 69er HCF posted:
Sad news
One of our classmates Saw Yan Naing @ Bo Bo C69 (Meikhtila) passed away at Mandalay on 3 December, 2017.
He got stroke on January this year and became paralyzed.
May his soul rest peace
Take care all
EE69 (EP & EC)
Classmates
300+ students were admitted to first ever 2nd BE in 1964.
80+ students chose to study EE.
There were 40+ students in the Final Year (for EP & EC). See Post
13 studied EC. 12 graduated, while one took sabbatical.
EE69
EP69
Abdul Raof (EP69, GBNF)
Younger brother of Saya S Kyaw Aye
Matriculated from Sacred Heart
Senior 69er
U Myint Maung (EP69)
Fondly called “Bu”.
Played Volleyball.
Junior 69er
Eligible bachelor
Sai Kham Pan (EP69)
SKPInter-Institute Champs
Burma Selected in Badminton
He was Number Two in Singles and Number One with Sagaing Kyi Nyunt in Doubles.
Led RIT to win Inter-Institute Tournament
U Sein Myint (EP69)
SM
Represented RIT in Rowing, Swimming and Water Polo
Major donor of the 69er HCF (Health Care Fund) and EE69er HCF
Lives in Singapore. Often travels to USA and Yangon to spend time with his grand children.
His daughter gave a soon kway at Half Moon Bay, California when his youngest grand child turned one year old.
Present at the soon kwyay was U Thein Zaw (Joe Chow, EC68) & his spouse (niece of Saya U San Tun); U Tin Myint (John Lee, M69, GBNF) & Daw Lyo Kyin Sein (Mabel Lee, T69).
Attended NorCal RITAA gatherings.
EC69
In 1969, twelve students graduated with EC (Electrical Communications). Four are GBNF.
U Hla Min (California, USA)
Dr. Tun Aung Gyaw (Massachusetts, USA)
U Toung (Connecticut, USA)
Daw Tin Tin (Anne, Southern California, USA)
U Oo Kyaw Hla (Canada, GBNF)
U Win Boh (Robert, Australia)
Saya U Than Lwin (Henry)
U Maung Ko
U Kyaw Soe (GBNF)
U Aung Thu Yein (Brownie, GBNF)
U Chit Tin (GBNF)
Zarnee Tun (EC78) wrote :
Nine years after Ec (Electronic) were 30 candidates for 78 batch. Me also one them Zarnee Tun nephew of saya U Ba Than & son of advocate U Tun Tin (Frankie Wong)
U Aung Thu Yein (EC69, GBNF)
Collegiate Scholarship Winners from SPHS in 1963
SPHS 63 (Aung Thuyein is second from right)
The group photo shows :
Standing (L to R) :
Hla Min (7th)
Khin Maung Zaw (Frank Gale, 17th)
Nyunt Wai (Victor Nyunt, 4th)
Thein Wai (5th)
Maung Maung Kyi (11th)
Aung Thu Yein (Brownie Way, 13th)
Aung Kyaw Zaw (Johnny Maung Maung, 9th)
Seated (L to R) :
Min Oo (Kenneth Min Oo Khine, 2nd)
Khin Maung U (George Khin Maung, 1st)
Myo San (Freddie Ba San, 3rd)
Best Friends
Aung Thu Yein (Brownie Way) is the younger brother of Dr. Thet Htar Way (GBNF).
He read notes to his best friend Nyunt Wai (Victor), who fell sick before the Matriculation exam.
Nyunt Wai stood 4th in the Matriculation exam. Aung Thu Yein stood 13th. Both won the Collegiate Scholarships of K75 per month along with eight of their classmates.
Studies and Career
He was one of the 12 students who graduated with Electrical Communications degree in 1969.
He is seen third from right in the back row of the Group Photo taken in 2009 (30th Anniversary of Graduation).
F Block Soccer Team
He played soccer for the F Block team. He can be seen third from left in the back row. Sad to note that Myint Thein (Kabar, M69, 2nd from left) and Tun Oo Khine (EP69, rightmost) are GBNF.
He worked at MOC & Schlumberger.
Smoking & Drinking
Before attending RIT, he was a non-smoker and a non-drinker.
He started smoking at RIT to warn off mosquitoes in the rest room of the hostel.
He accompanied some of his hostel friends to celebrate with drinks after taking the mid-term and final examinations.
Farewell
During one of my visits to Yangon in 2012, Zau Lai picked me up first and then Brownie.
Brownie jumped into the car without changing into new clothes and without locking his home and gate. He trusted people.
Due to his medical conditions, his doctor has advised him to stop smoking and drinking.
Seeing his long lost friends and with the persuasion of Duwa Zau Lai, Brownie found an excuse to take a drink “just one more time”.
Last Days
The Monthly Breakfast Gathering at Royal Rose (Taw Win Hnin Si) had bad news. We learned that Brownie had slipped and fell a his home. His son (a medical doctor) rushed him to the RGH Neurological Ward.
After the gathering, several of us visited the RGH Neurological Ward.
I spent a few days as a temporary monk at Kaba Aye Sun Lun Gu Kyaung with U Wara (Win Paing, ChE70) as my preceptor.
The 69ers learned about the demise of Brownie, but they chose not to inform me and disrupt my meditation practice at the monastery.
U Chit Tin (EC69, GBNF)
U Chit Tin (EC69, Nyaung Oo) succumbed to liver cancer on (9 November, 2017) 1:30 pm at his home. Per his wish, the services were performed the same day.
He worked for MOGE before moving to Singapore. After retirement, he moved back to Myanmar. He is the third of the EC69 to pass away.
I met him in Singapore and at the 69er Gatherings in Yangon.
Condolences can be found in the GBNF post.
From Ivan Lee
Dear 69er Classmates
We all are 70s, be aware of it. Recently and lately all we see our internal news is deepest condolences and sad events.
We are all on the same boat and not too much we can do against the natural phenomenon.
However what I would like to say is:
Yesterday, let bygone be bygone, forget it.
Today, our glory mature is at last moment, cherish it.
Tomorrow, right and wrong, up or down, wait and see it.
Never trouble trouble until trouble troubles us.
Best Regards, Ivan (M69), New Jersey, USA
Athletes
Track and Field
Aung Gyi Shwe (GBNF)
Khin Than Myint Tin (Margaret)
Badminton
Sai Kham Pan (Burma selected)
Myint Sein
Bishnu Shahi
Basketball
Soe Win (Captain of RIT team, GBNF)
Tommy (GBNF)
Han Sein (GBNF)
Lyo Kyin Sein
Chess
Aung Than
Chinlon
Tin Shein
Htin Aung
Rowing
Hla Min (last elected EC of RUBC)
Sein Myint
Win Naing (Dicky, GBNF)
Win Maung (Lake)
Soccer
Kyaw Sint (GBNF)
Myo Nyunt
Aung Gyi Shwe (GBNF)
Swimming and Water Polo
Htay Aung (Burma selected)
Sein Myint
Moe Hein
Hla Kyaing
Win Maung (Lake)
Han Sein (GBNF)
Table Tennis
Tin Myint (GBNF)
Tennis
Kyaw Sint (GBNF)
Kyaw Nyunt (GBNF)
Than Htay
Volleyball
Saw Edison
Sa Maung Maung
Myint Maung (Bu)
Aye Thein
Weightlifting and Body Building
Jimmy Kyin (GBNF)
Khin Win (GBNF)
Myint Soe
Mini-gathering in New Jersey, USA
Ivan Lee (M69) was interviewed by a reporter for his experience as an amateur Real Estate developer. His daughter and son-in-law are among the top Real Estate developers in the East Coast. His grand daughter also wrote about Ivan’s life journey. He has two daughters and six grand children.
Saw Yu Tint (Alice, T69) is my classmate & Sayagadaw. She visits New Jersey, UK and Singapore. Alice has three children and three grand children.
U Toung (Tom, EC69) has two children. He spends time in Hong Kong to be with his grand child.
Dr. Tun Aung Gyaw (EC69) worked on multiple projects. He has five children and six grand children.
For the past several years, Ivan has hosted the RIT-UCC gathering at his house in New Jersey, USA. The timing is chosen so that Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi and Saya U Soe Paing can participate. Ko Toung often hosts a second gathering (if he is not in Hong Kong). Frederick Thetgyi, Ko Sein Tin, Ko Aung Myint and several 69ers have attended one or more gatherings.
TAG, Ivan, Alice, Tom
Miscellaneous
Albert Kyaw Min (ChE69), Daniel Tint Lwin (M69) & Robert Win Boh (EC69) are guitarists and vocalists.
Several musicians have retired : Ngwe Soe (Walter), Tin Maung Aye, Than Myaing
Daw Myint Myint (C69), Ivan Lee (M69) and U Sein Myint (EP69) are the major donors to the 69er HCF.
69ers have updated the Address Book three times by U Aung Min (M69) & team.
Several 69ers are former sayas at RIT. They are busy during the SPZP season (especially November and December).
NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) successfully sent Apollo-11 to land men on the moon and bring them safely back to the earth (as envisioned by JFK).
Apollo 11
Neil Armstrong — Civilian Commander; First man on the moon
Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin — Lunar Module Pilot; Second man on the moon
Michael Collins — Command Module Pilot
My Poem
The poem honoring the Apollo 11 Mission was published in the Guardian newspaper.
A copy of the poem was given to Mr. Hall (USIS), who forwarded it to NASA and the astronauts.
Updates
Neil Armstrong became a University Professor
For some time, Buzz Aldrin was depressed for not being the first to set foot on the Moon. He later competed in “Dancing with the Stars”.
Michael Collins reply to interviewers : “The mission needed three astronauts. I am 1/3 of the success.” He wrote a book.
Apollo 13 had a technical problem. The saga was recounted in a book and a movie.
Apollo 17 had a Scientist Astronaut.
A mini-history was published based on the interviews with Astronauts.
Wrote the article “BOC College Student” for RIT Alumni International Newsletter
Business Manager for the publication of Rangoon University Engineering Students’ Union Annual Magazine in 1952-53.
Graduated in 1954 with Civil Engineering
MS from MIT as a recipient of the “Twinning Program” proposed by Saya U Ba Hli
Attended SPZP-2000 held in San Francisco. He requested to be seated with Sayagyis.
Letter in 2012
My dear Ko Aung Gyi:
I tried to e-mail you several times in the past few months but they didn’t get through. I was wondering where have you been and how were you doing.
By the way, as I am unable to attend the great Reunion myself, I have two important proposals for you to consider and, if you thought appropriate, present to the Reunion Organizing Committee:
(1) That at the start of the reunion the whole body of attendees should pay respects to Sayagyi U Ba Hli and Dr. Murray P. Horwood from MIT who were instrumental in getting scholarships and admissions for Burmese graduates and students to MIT, Harvard (San Tun Aung and Nelson Chin graduated from there), Cornell (Kyit In [Min Wun] and Kyaw Win), Michigan State, Ann Arbor & East Lansing, Lehigh, even UCLA (my R.U. College of Engineering classmate graduate Ohn Ghine went there) etc. As you know, Dr. Horwood headed the team of professors from MIT to RU Eng. College back in the 1950’s – – that’s how it got started for the Burmese boys like myself to come to the U.S. for further studies.
(2) I believe that this similar kind of arrangement with MIT or other institutions could and should be made with the Myanmar govt and RIT now for Myanmar to catch up with the world. If you have a chance to meet with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, please tell her about this proposal. Education and higher education, esp. technical and medical, is extremely important for Myanmar students and graduates and for the country, and no one should overlook this.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration of the above.
My best wishes for a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year to you and your family and all our Sayas, colleagues and friends at the Reunion, in Myanmar and overseas. Please take a lot of pictures at the reunion for me!
Aw Taik Moh
1954 B.Sc. Civil Engineering, R.U. Eng. College
M.C.P.(City Planning) M.I.T. 1957
P.S. Since I attended the last reunion in San Francisco many years ago the RIT Committee lost contact with me, otherwise I would have contributed something to the “Book” they are now publishing about the history of the university (which I heard of from Dr. Chris Lee). I want to let you and the Committee know that I have an original copy of the R.U. Engineering Students’ Union Magazine, published in 1953 – in both Burmese and English – for which I was a Business Manager when I was a 3rd year engineering student. It has the photos of Sayagyi U Ba Hli and the entire faculty and Dr. Horwood and all the students.
Updates
RUESU published six Annual Magazines
Saya U Moe Aung was Editor of the magazine for 1960 – 61
U Aung Min (M69) was worried that I might burn out. He asked me to slow down.
Completed five decades as a Volunteer. Spent 26 years as an Organizer & Messenger for the RIT Alumni. Want to slow down, but have things to do.
Take Rest
Some said, “You write more & faster than we can read. Take some rest”.
Paying back to my benefactors, mentors & alma mater while I am physically & mentally OK.
EAFF 1EAFF 2
Find Young Helpers
Some suggested to find young volunteers to help.
Easier said than done. Not easy to find even paid volunteers. Much difficult to get unpaid volunteers.
Memory
Some friends & even young people had memory lapses. My young cousin said, “I forgot what I wanted to say”.
Saw people with various levels of memory problems. At first, one could not recall names & faces of friends. Then, he could not remember his children. Finally, he could not recognize his spouse. Some time later, he passed away.
Compared to geniuses with phenomenal memory, I am at a lower rung. I am glad that I recall people & events more than the average person. I know thousands of names & people.
Story Tellers
From Thin Sayas, Myin Sayas and Kyar Sayas, I learned interesting episodes that cannot be read from the history books. Sadly, many good story tellers are GBNF.
Dream
If one can dream, others can (help) fulfill.
My first dream was to get sayas and alumni get reconnected physically & virtually. RIT Alumni Newsletter and SPZP-2000 are some realization of that dream.
My second dream is to compile and publish Oral & Written Histories. As a member of the HMEE project, I was able to realize a part of that dream.
Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint, Dr. V Nyunt Wai, Dr. Khin Maung U, U Khin Maung Zaw & several others have added valuable insights to my posts. I hope the “Tumbleweed effect” will help turn my raw thoughts and writings into memorable articles and may be even e-books and books. It will be a fuller realization of the second dream.
SPZP-2000 Organizers
Worry
Someone wrote in my autograph : “Worry is like sand in an oyster. A little produces a pearl. Too much kills the animal”.
I do not worry about Longevity.
I have seen some people live long lives, but a few were not physically or mentally active for some time. I prefer to have quality of life for our moment on this earth.
Last Journey
I was emcee for the Last Journeys of Dr. Htay Lwin Nyo and Sayadaw U Silananda.
There will be no service for my last journey.
HLNU Silananda
I gave several Eulogies. I prefer to acknowledge the good deeds of people while they are still alive.
Sharing is Caring
I am delighted to share my thoughts and experiences — with mentors, colleagues, friends, former students & those who value dissemination of knowledge.
Events described here cover my journey as a University Student
Other events (e.g. 1946 to 1970s, Top Matriculates) are covered elsewhere
1963
Took Matric Only exam in May
Most exams were held in March
SPHS63Hla Min (7th Place)
Collegiate Scholarship
Paulians had 5 in the Top Five, 7 in the Top Ten, and 10 in the Top Twenty
Khin Maung U (1st in Burma)
Min Oo (2nd)
Myo San (Freddie Ba San, 3rd, GBNF)
Nyunt Wai (Victor Nyunt, 4th)
Thein Wai (5th)
Hla Min (7th)
Johnny Maung Maung (Aung Kyaw Zaw, 9th)
Maung Maung Kyi (11th, GBNF)
Aung Thu Yein (Brownie Way, 13th, GBNF)
Frank Gale (Khin Maung Zaw, 17th)
Leik Khone
Attended last ever I.Sc.(A) class at Leik Khone.
Following the “Anniversary of 7th July, 1962” events, most classes at Rangoon & Mandalay Universities were closed for an unspecified period.
Engineering & Medical Classes were spared at that time.
As a result, those who were a year senior in High School graduated 2.5 years ahead of us (Guinea Pigs of the Education Systems).
RUBC
Joined Rangoon University Boat Club.
Paulian Crew was Runner-up for Senior Novices.
Maung Maung Kyi (Bow, GBNF)
Hla Min (2)
Kyaw Wynn (3)
Willie Soe Maung (Myint Soe, Stroke, GBNF)
Myint Thein (Cox, GBNF)
We were awarded Full Green.
Maung Maung KyiKyaw Wynn (2nd from Left)
40th AnniversaryGathering
President Sithu U Tin, VP U Po Zon & U Tin Htoon compiled Souvenir Magazine for the 40th Anniversary of the Founding of RUBC
Due to Security Concerns, the 40th Anniversary Annual Regatta was cancelled
Sithu U Tin & the Patrons decided to hold the “40th Anniversary Dinner of the founding of RUBC” at Orient Hotel in Kandawgyi
RUBC 40th Anniversary
Burma Institute of Technology
My elder brother and several sayas graduated from BIT in 1963.
They were from the second batch of BIT.
The degree conferred was B.Sc. (Engg).
1964
Education System
New Education System was implemented in November 1964.
Most Faculties of the Rangoon University became Institutes with their own Rectors.
Youth Affairs Department implemented Luyechun (လူရည်ချွန်) Program in the Summer of 1964. Eligible students from 7th, 8th, 9th & 10th Standards were chosen to attend Ngapali Shwe Wah Gyaing Camp in the Summer of 1964.
Rangoon Institute of Technology
RIT Student
In November 1964, three batches of students entered RIT (Rangoon Institute of Technology).
400+ were admitted to the first ever 1st BE using Intelligence Level Aggregate (ILA). Zaw Min was admitted as Roll Number One. Tommy Shwe (GBNF), Cho Aye (GBNF), Peter Pe (GBNF) & Thaung Sein (Steeve Kay, GBNF) were among the top students.
300+ who had passed the last ever I.Sc.(A) exam were chosen by merit to attend the first ever 2nd BE. I was admitted as Roll Number One. Taing Oke, Kenny Wong, Tun Aung Gyaw, Tin Tun (GBNF) & Thein Swe (GBNF) were among the top students.
About 200 students who had passed the last ever I.Sc.(B) exam were admitted to the 3rd BE. Tun Aung (Jeffrey, GBNF) was a top student.
RUBC
Elected Honorary Treasurer
Had to report to Professor William Paw (President)
Last Executive Committee member to be elected at the Annual General Meeting
Served as Vice Captain the following year
Higher authorities prevented me from becoming RUBC Captain by discarding the Bye Laws and using their ad-hoc rules (e.g. selecting instead of electing Captain)
My affection for Rowing & RUBC did not wither. I served as Contributing Editor for the RUBC 90th Anniversary Souvenir Magazine in 2013
RUBC Souvenir Magazine
Matriculation
Cherry Hlaing (Than Than Tin, St. John’s Convent) and Lyn Aung Thet (MEHS) had Joint Highest Marks.
Based on ILA, Cherry was admitted as Roll Number One to IM(1). Was selected Luyechun in summer of 1965. Grandfather U Hoke Sein & father U Saw Hlaing were First in Burma.
Lyn Aung Thet had four distinctions and joint Highest Marks. He had lower ILA than Cherry. Scholar Athlete who excelled in Swimming, Water Polo, Tennis & Chess. Was Luyechun in a later year.
Aung Win Chiong (SPHS64) has the next best raw score. Had perfect ILA score. Admitted to IM(2) as Roll Number One.
Maurice Hla Kyi (Min Lwin, SPHS64) had the 5th highest marks. Admitted to IM(2) as Roll Number Two.
Maurice & Aung Win
1965 – 1969
Matriculationin 1965
Bernard Khaw (SPHS65) had four distinctions (with 80+ marks in English) and stood First in Burma. Due to the revised policy (e.g. 3 NRC requirement), he could not apply for professional courses. Majored in Chemistry before moving to USA. Retired as a Chemical Engineer & Pastor.
Bernard (Center)
Maung Aye (SPHS65) had second best raw marks. He and his twin brother moved to USA
Winston Sein Maung (SPHS65, GBNF) had third best raw marks
Cherry Than Tin had fourth best raw marks. She was admitted as Roll No (1) to MC (2)
Yi Thwe (SPHS65, GBNF) had 5th best raw marks. Admitted as Roll No (1) to MC (1)
Paing Soe (Freddie, SPHS65) had same marks as Yi Thwe. Admitted as Roll No (2) to MC (1)
Forty four Paulians were admitted to MC in 1965. They are from the Last Batch of True Paulians.
Nationalization
Consequences of Coup d’etat include
End of Democracy
Nationalization of industry & schools
Indiscriminate demonetization
Increased censorship
With every turmoil (effecting “National Security”), the universities, institutes and schools were suspended.
SPHS
The schools were nationalized on April 1, 1965.
St. Paul’s High School became No. (6) Botathaung State High School. Some Brothers left Burma. A few indigenous Brothers remained in Ady Road. Brother Joseph was ordained as Father Joseph.
Luyechun
Program was extended to include Universitites & Institutes in Summer of 1965
I attended Inlay Khaung Daing Lu Ye Camp in the summer of 1965 along with Ko Sein Shwe, Khin Than Myint Tin and Zaw Min
LYC 1LYC 2
MC(1) sent Cherry Hlaing, Khin Maung U, Anita Aye Pe and Kyaw Sein Koe (Victor, GBNF).
RIT
Eight engineering departments
Architecture
Chemical
Civil
Electrical
Mechanical
Metallurgical
Mining
Textile
Most departments have associations. The RIT Mechanical Engineering Association was active. Ko Win Thein (M67, GBNF) was a Prime Mover. He co-founded Set Hmu Thadinzin & Mechanical Magazine. He organized activities.
RIT Sports Council was headed by Saya U Maung Maung Than (GBNF). U Maung Maung (Burma Selected in soccer) was Sports Officer. The associations for the various sports were headed by sayas.
Several RIT students were Burma Selected. They include Sai Kham Pan (Badminton) and Htay Aung (Water Polo).
Htay Aung
Saya Mao Toon Siong (former Burma Champion) was National Coach for Table Tennis. He also coached RIT team which won the Inter-Institute Championship.
Saya Mao
Electrical Sayas
EE Sayas
Electrical Engineering was headed by Saya U Sein Hlaing (Professor & Head).
Senior sayas included U Kyaw Tun (saya of our sayas), U Tin Swe & U Sein Win. All are now GBNF.
There were about 20 sayas. Five were on deputation for further studies abroad.
I wrote “A Sad and Short Clip : EE Sayas” for SPZP-2010. Sayas U Thein Lwin and U Nyi Nyi have since passed away.
EC and EP
There were two options : EC (Electrical Communications) and EP (Electrical Power). Per advice from the industry, only a quarter of students were accepted for EC.
80+ EE students in 3rd BE.
40+ EE students graduated in 1969
EE69ers
EP students outnumbered EC students 3 by 1. Several bright students played safe by choosing EP (which provided a job guarantee).
We studied EC (Electrical Communications). Twelve of us graduated in 1969.
Five EC69ers — Kyaw Soe, Aung Thu Yein, Chit Tin, Oo Kyaw Hla & Sai Aik Yee — are now GBNF.
Several years later, EC became Electronics Engineering.
A few decades later, Electronics Engineering and Electrical Power became full-fledged departments.
Khin Maung Zaw (KMZ, EC76) wrote :
AFAIK, EC was the hardest and strictest discipline at the RIT in those days as we’ve been told. Some even asked us why we had to go there. Of course, I am not going to mention the easiest discipline there, but we joked like, “they had 109 students and 110 passed the exam”. I do not mean any disrespect to Sayas and friends from other majors!! At times, it made us wonder why were we there for god’s sake. CRAZY TIMES!!! Indeed.
Volunteer
I served as
Treasurer & Vice Captain of RUBC (Rangoon University Boat Club)
Class Representative, Joint Secretary & Secretary of RITEE (Rangoon Institute of Technology Electrical Engineering Association)
Member of Committee for “Hlyat Sit Sar Saung”
Editor of the Bulletin published by RIT English Association
Member of UTC, Rowing, Scrabble, and Chess Assocations / Clubs
Free lance writer (articles, poems, translations). My poem “Men on the Moon” was sent to NASA by USIS, and it was published in the Guardian newspaper in July 1969
Men on the Moon
Updates
Some joined the Faculty. Some worked in the Industry. A few worked for private or family business. Some moved overseas.
Danny suggested to have a Class Reunion. It was realized as 30th Anniversary of Graduation & Acariya Pu Zaw Pwe in 1999.
I started “RIT Alumni International Newsletter” in April 1999. It partially helped to have SPZP-2000.
SPZP-2000 Orgsnizers
69er Health Care Fund was established. Ko Aung Min is current Chair. He and his team maintain the finances & activities.
GBNF List
69ers hold monthly Breakfast Gatherings (except during the pandemic). They have major Reunions in 1999, 2009, 2014 and 2019.
40th Anniversary (2009)Golden Jubilee of Admission (2014)50th Anniversary (2019)
Awards
Received Alumni Appreciation Awards in October 2000, August 2016 and September 2016.
Served as a messenger for the RIT & Engineering Community for 26 years.
Newsletter
Newsletter
RIT Alumni International Newsletter was started in April 1999. Served as Chief Editor. In the early days, many RIT sayas and alumni provided articles, news & photos.
Messenger 2
RIT website
Maurice, HM, KMZ, Benny
U Khin Maung Zaw (KMZ, EC76) designed & implemented ex-rit.org website.
I served as Editor and Content Provider of the website.
Several hundred accessed the first RIT website.
The website played an important part for planning and implementing First RIT Grand Reunion & Saya Pu Zaw Pwe (SPZP-2000) held in San Francisco, California, USA in October 2000.
Some traveled from Burma, Thailand, Singapore, Japan, Australia & New Zealand to attend SPZP-2000.
SPZP-2000
Membership
Founding member, RIT Alumni International
Founding member, NorCal RITAA
Life member, RITAA
Life member, BAPS
Life member, RUBC
Member, HMEE Project
Former Docent, Computer History Museum
Former member, ACM & SF Bay Area Chapter
Former member, IEEE (CS)
NorCal RITAA
Sharing News
Able to share news — good, sad and bad.
Jara and Byadihave caused a decline in health of sayas and alumni. Marana has claimed the lives of several especially during the pandemic.
Some sayas and alumni are Gone But Not Forgotten. The GBNF list for 69ers has 137 members.
With the event of social media, the number of RIT related pages grew. There are many silent readers and few active contributors.
Fact Checking
Being a messenger is not easy.
When an alumni asked me to relay the demise of U Ne Win Myint (Victor Win, ChE66), I double checked before posting the news. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Even then, someone who is near & dear to Jean (Mrs. Victor) claimed that Ko Victor was hospitalized, but had not passed away. The claim confused some alumni before the sad news was confirmed & details of the last journey were published.
Victor (Center)
When Dr. Tin Hlaing, former Principal of Maritime Studies, passed away in Singapore, an alumni posted Condolence message in the Facebook pages to the family of Saya Dr. Tin Hlaing (M63). Saya became a Tone Kyaw.
Dr. Tin Hlaing
There are fact checking websites. They have reports about Urban Myths & Legends.
Concerns
Some sayas & alumni want privacy. They do not want news of their visits or failing health to be relayed. We have to respect their concerns.
There are many posts by sayas, alumni & friends. The posts may be public, restricted or private. We have to be careful before sharing or re-posting them.
Most people do not have the time & energy to read long posts. A post should have an interesting & informative message.
As my mentors said, “The message is usually much more important than the messenger.”
Thanks
The RIT Spirit is alive and well.
Kudos to sayas, alumni, sponsors, donors, volunteers & well wishers.
Updates
I belong to various circles.
I have posted about them in my FB pages and website.
Saya U Myat Htoo (C68), Chair of BOD (Board of Directors) and Daw Hnin Maung Maung (“Ma Ku”) hosted the face-to-face meeting on September 23, 2018.
The face-to-face meeting is usually held every quarter.
The next meeting will be held in early November by U Nyunt Than (M86), Joint Secretary and Daw Htwe Htwe to prepare for the AGM (Annual General Meeting), where the election of the EC (Executive Committee) and BOD will take place.
Activities
One activity of NorCal RITAA is to provide scholarship (some prefer the terms stipend, grant and financial aid) to eligible YTU students.
Last year four YTU students were offered $1000 for a year and three YTU students were offered $500 for a year.
The current recipients should reapply the following years if (a) they have maintained good grades (b) they still need financial assistance.
U San Lin (M87) and family have pledged to support for one student a maximum of six years until graduation.
U San Lin (Rightmost)
Daw Mu Mu Kin, spouse of Saya Allen Htay (C58, GBNF) has supported two students. She has pledged to support one student for the following year.
Daw Mu Mu Kin
U Kaung Kaung Oo (Gordon, M83) and Daw Lillian Kaung (EC83), owners of iNapa Wine, have pledged to support one student for the following year.
Gordon & Lillian
Donations
U Thein Tun Aung (Dennis, EP76) donated $600 to the NorCal RITAA Scholarship fund.
Daw Kyu Kyu Lin (Bawlone, T75) donated $300 to the NorCal RITAA Scholarship fund.
Daw Khin Mya Yee (Sarah, C77) donated $200 to the NorCal RITAA General Fund.
King Wong (Victor, C66) donated $100 to the YTU Library Project via NorCal RITAA.
Saya Dr. Nyo Win (M65) donated $50 at the NorCal RITAA Summer Picnic.
NorCal RITAA presented appreciation award (plaque, certificate) to the major donors.
The list of donors is maintained by U Ko Ko Zin (M84), Treasurer.
Updates
Saya U Maung Maung (ChE66), Gordon Kaung (M83) & U Aung Myint Oo (EC84) are Past Presidents.
U Tin Maung Win (C86) is the President.
Stan Liou (M67) is Past Chair of BOD.
Saya U Myat Htoo (C68) has been Chair of BOD for several terms.
During the pandemic, several activities were put on hold.
In 2023, activities resumed with the Annual Dinner.
2023
In 2024, NorCal RITAA celebrated the Centennial of Engg Education in Burma, and the 60th Anniversary of RIT. It also revamped the website.
Several sayas and senior alumni mentioned the difficulty of attending Dinner Gatherings.
NorCal RITAA will hold a special Lunch Gathering on August 16, 2025. The entertainment program will feature Tu Tu & Zayanda. The educational program will feature two Speakers.
HlaMin 