Category: Anniversaries

by Hla Min

Updated : June 2025

Steeve Kay (U Thaung Sein, EC70, GBNF)

• Multiple Golden Sponsor of SPZPs
• Provided seed money for designing memorabilia to be given to sayas & sayamas attending SPZP-2000, commemorative T-shirts to the organizers and volunteers, and to raise fund by selling the surplus items.
• Attended SPZPs in USA, Singapore and Yangon.

• Around 2019, he had medical problems. He could not travel far, but continued conducting his business & philanthropy from home.
• Multiple projects to implement (including writing books), but he finally succumbed to Jara, Byadi & Marana.
• May he rest in peace.

Best Friends Forever

• 69ers meet monthly for breakfast at Taw Win Hnin Sni (Royal Rose).
• There was a pause during the pandemic. About 20 members passed away (mostly due to Covid).
• Annual Dinner gatherings at Panda, M3 and U Aung Min’s former office in PWD compound
• Celebrated Anniversaries in 1999, 2009, 2014 and 2019.

• They have gatherings to welcome 69ers from overseas. e.g. Daw Myint Myint (C69) hosted a lunch gathering at Kandawgyi Westin Park Hotel to welcome Daw Nyunt Nyunt Wai (Millie, T69).
• During my visits, U Ohn Khine (M70) gave me rides to SPZP & HMEE-2012 meetings and selected 69er gatherings.

SPZP-2016

• Both the Saya Pu Zaw Pwe and the Alumni Reunion & Entertainment were held at the Gyogone Campus.
• Free food was provided for breakfast, lunch and dinner to all attendees.
• Kudos to the Organizers, Sponsors, Donors, Volunteers and Supporters for making SPZP-2000 unique & memorable.

All Mech Gathering

• U Thant Zin (M82, GBNF, son of Saya U Sein Shan) invited me to All-Mechanical Gathering held at Dolphin.
• U Hla Win and Daw Mar Mar Yee were co-emcee at the event.

Sayas & Sayamas at SPZP

• U Tin U matriculated in 1946. He received BSCE from the University of Oregon and MSCE from Yale University. Upon his return, he taught part-time at the Civil Engineering Department at the RU Faculty of Engineering, University of Rangoon. He is the most Senior Past Captain of RUBC. He is the oldest of nine siblings. Two younger brothers Saya U Ba Than (Gold Medalist in 1948) and Dr. Myo Tint (3rd in Burma in 1952 Matric exam) have passed away.

• Daw Khin Swe Aye graduated with Physics Honors in 1962 along with Daw May Than Nwe (GBNF) and my elder sister Daw Khin Than Nwe. Sad to learn that she had vision impairment.
• Daw Myint Myint Khaing is the daughter of Arzani Mahn Ba Khaing. She transcribed the interview tapes recorded by her spouse Saya Dr. Khin Maung Swe (Tekkatho Maung Thin Char, GBNF) for the book on Sayagyi U Ba Toke and his life journey. Sayagyi gave autographed copies of the book to U Ohn Khine and me. Sayagyi is a Phwa Bet Taw of Rangoon University and the First RU Students’ Strike in 1920. Sayagyi passed away on 2nd December 2020 (a few days short of his Centennial birthday).

by Hla Min

Updated : June 2025

Post : September 19, 2000

Dear Sayas and Colleagues,

There are now 280+ confirmed attendees (of which 250+ have paid and the rest saying that the “check is on the way”). The list is growing. Although we posted the invitations on the web, e-mailed to alumni that we know, and even sent invitation packages to several alumni by snail mail, almost every day, I get a message saying “I’ve just learnt that there is an ex-rit web site” or “I just got a fax from a friend about the Saya Pu Zaw Pwe and I’d like to know if there are any tickets left”.

There are some people who do not have Internet access. There are several who switch their ISPs and their e-mail addresses. There are a few people who do have computers but rarely open their e-mail box; if you send e-mail to them you’ll get “Mail Box Quota Exceeded”. For whatever reason, there are still people who are unaware that alumni from five decades will meet at the Embassy Suites hotel in Gateway Boulevard, South San Francisco on the evening of October 28, 2000. The family members will join the alumni in a picnic on October 29, 2000.

Our webmaster, KMZ, will come to the Bay Area on October 27, 2000. There will probably be lots of pre- and post- Reunion gatherings.

Will I be able to remember the 400 – 500 names (some alumni have 2 or even 3 names) of the attendees? Or as Myint Myint Sein (a) Diana (M70) says, “Will we be able to recognize our friends?” Our teachers used to say that they first recognize the best and the restless/energetic in the class. Then, gradually they focus on the quiet and the timid students.

It’s easier to remember people as a group. So, here we go:

CLASS OF 68

Ko Aung Khin (EP 68), formerly of EPC [spent most of his time at the Lawpita Hydro-electric Power Station], recently became a PE and a proud grandfather. He was known as the “LA Tha-gyee” (village head) since he knew a lot of people in the Los Angeles area. He was an EC member of the RIT Electrical Engineering Association, and a past Vice-President of BAPS.

His seating preference: We (Ko Aung Khin and Ma Win May) would like to sit together with our 1968 batch, Ko Tun Aung (a) Jeffrey (EC68) and his wife from LA, Ko Min Maung (EP68) and his wife from Seattle, and Saya U San Tint if it is possible.

Ko Tun Aung was EC1 [the roll numbers then were given in honor of merit]. His wife Ma Thuza was a well known movie actor.

When Saya U Chin Way (EE) first came to the US, Ko Tun Aung asked him to apply for a job at his department. As the story goes, the interviewer(s) asked if Saya knew anyone there. Saya said that he only knew Ko Tun Aung, who used to be student back home. The interview ended there and then.

Congratulations, Ko Tun Aung for paying back the metta and cetana of his saya(s). Sad to say, Saya U Chin Way had passed away.

Ko Myat Htoo (C68), co-chair, Steering Committee, wrote:

Thank you so much for sending me Krishna Rao’s phone no. I spoke with him in length yesterday and gave him my other classmates’ phone nos. He left Burma right after graduation in ’68. My last night’s phone call to him was our first contact in 32 years. I found out that he got divorced from his wife of 18 years recently and just had a heart bypass surgery a month ago and he is still recuperating.

Ko Myat Htoo (Civ 68) joined the Civil department upon graduation. He is now a Branch Chief with CalTrans (California Transportation). He is serving his second term as President of TBSA. He will be hosting Saya Dr. Aung Gyi and Saya Dr. San Hla Aung (C58).

CLASS OF 70

Ko Zaw Min Nawaday (EP 70) writes: Will it be possible to seat Ko Ye Myint (EP72) and spouse, Ko Myo Khin (C70) and spouse, with me and my wife?

Ko Zaw Min was Roll No. 1 for the ’64 intake of the first ever 1st BE and was a “Luyechun” (Outstanding Student). The “Luyechun” project started the year before for middle school and high school. It was extended to the University students in the Inlay Khaung Daing summer camp in 1965.

Ko Zaw Min was a top student in EP. Ko Thaung Sein (a) Steeve Kay and Charlie Tseng were the top of the EC class.

After relocating to the US, Ko Zaw Min switched to Electronics specializing in Component Design. He has relocated from New York to the Bay Area.

Ko Ye Myint is Saya U Ba Toke’s son. One of Ko Ye Myint’s sons is an EE working in Singapore. Another is expected to graduate from AU [formerly ABAC] also with a degree in EE.

Saya U Ba Toke retired from AU last year. He will be attending the Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe. His sponsors include Ko Zaw Min, Ko Maung Maung Than (M79), Ko Mya Thwin (Philip, EE75), Saya Allen Htay (C58) and Saya U Tin Htut (M60).

Ko Myo Khin (C70) and Ma Mya Mya Nwe (C73) will attend. They will be staying at the Embassy Suites. Ko Myo Khin, along with the late Ko Win Thein (M67), were among the top organizers at RIT. Ko Myo Khin joined the Civil department upon graduation. He later taught at the Japanese universities.

The following is a message forwarded by Ko Zaw Win (C70) who will not be able to attend the Reunion:

Dear Ko Myo Khin

How are you and your family? I think both of you must be counting your days for the trip to US for the Saya Pu Zaw Pwe. It’s a rare and a great occasion for all the graduates of RIT who were out of the mother country for different reasons to meet at this ‘Pwe” and for a reunion.

Unfortunately circumstances do not allow me to participate in the grand occasion. Please send my greetings to all our friends when you meet them.

At present in Sydney, Australia the whole town is bubbling with Olympic activities while I am trying to finish the three project reports which were due last month. Sometimes I really long for those old times where we can simply lay on our backs and enjoy the slow flow of events with ample of free time. I really now understand that “Life is a struggle” everywhere. Life is also short and enjoy it while you can, with metta towards others.

CLASS OF 74

Ma San San Swe (San San Nwe, EC 74) wrote:

Would there be any seating arrangements? Is it possible to ask for seating with a few of our friends in one table? They are :-

1. Yee Yee Win; San Francisco 2. Ko Tin Aung Win & Dorothy; Sydney, Australia 3. Suzie, husband [Saya U Myat Thwin] & son [Raymond]; Houston, Texas 4. Ko Myint Swe & San San; Cupertino

Thanks, Sansan

For the 1st BE intake of ’68 (mostly graduated in ’74), Ko Htay Lwin Nyo was No. 1 followed by Ma San San, Ko Ne Win Maw, Ko Myint Swe, Sai Aung Thurein in the top of the class.

An ode to Dr. Htay Lwin Nyo (part-time Professor, SJSU) can be found in the “HLN Memorial Pages”.

Ko Myint Swe (EP74) and Ma San San moved last Thanksgiving to the Bay Area. They have both volunteered for the Organizing Committee of the Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe. They hosted a lunch meeting some time back. Ko Myint Swe works for AMD and has to travel frequently to Austin, Texas, and elsewhere. He enjoys playing golf and tennis.

Ko Tin Aung Win is a brother-in-law of Saya U Myo Win (M65). He will be bringing a letter and photos from Saya U Myo Win. Dorothy is an RIT associate. She is the younger daughter of the late Sayagyi U Kyaw Tun (EE).

Daw Yee Yee Win was shocked when he learned about HLN’s untimely death. She was one of the donors to the HLN Memorial Fund along with the Swe(s) and Ma Suzie.

Ma Suzie Lin (formerly Suzie Yea) wrote that she could hear the laughing and talking in the RIT corridors as she browsed the ex-rit web site pages. Her letter to the Editor and Web Master is straight from the heart. Saya U Myat Thwin (Kuesan Lin, ChE66) won several scholastic awards from the US even when he was studying at RIT. Not wishing to miss the big Reunion — thanks in part to the phone call by Saya U Maung Maung7 (George, ChE66) — the Lin(s) decided to buy three tickets to bring along Raymond.

With metta,
Hla Min

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Countdown to the Reunion (2)
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Note :
I posted 64 “Countdown to the Reunion” and 36 “Post-Reunion” for SPZP-2000.
Countdown (2) was posted on September 19, 2000

Dear Sayas and Colleagues,

Since the alumni attending the Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw span five decades, we need help from representative(s) of each decade to highlight that era and to introduce the alumni. I’ll try my best to give an overall demographics of the alumni attending the first ever Grand Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe.

Saya H Num Kok

Saya H. Num Kok (Civil) and Saya U Ba Toke (Maths) are the most senior sayas [by age] among those attending the Saya Pu Zaw Pwe. They also taught most of the sayas and senior alumni. Two brothers of Saya U Num Kok are also alumni. H. Num Fatt has not registered for the Reunion, but H. Num Pon (a) Saya U Myint Lwin (C61) will be at the Reunion. For many years, Saya U Num Kok acted as line judge at the RUBC8 regattas. Saya U Myint Lwin rowed for the Faculty of Engineering.

Saya U Ba Toke

Saya U Ba Toke taught mathematics to the engineering students. Saya later served as Professor of Mathematics at the Rangoon University, Rector at MASU, and as Professor of Mathematics at RIT. He retired last year from Assumption University (formerly ABAC), Bangkok, Thailand. While at RIT, Saya U Ba Toke chaired numerous organizations including “Thu-khu-ma a-nu-pyin-nya” (Fine arts) and sports.

The sponsors of Saya U Ba Toke include Saya U Tin Htut (M60), Saya Allen Htay (C58), Ko Zaw Min Nawaday (EP70), Ko Maung Maung Than (M79), and Ko Mya Thwin (Philip, EE75).

E-mail I received earlier from Saya U Myint Lwin

Dear Hla Min:

Thank you for your e-mail and the invitation to the RIT Reunion. It should be a memorable event. I will put the date in my calendar. I taught at RIT as Assistant Lecturer in CE from June 1961 to October 1962.

I visited RIT and the Rangoon University Boat Club in March 1999. RIT was closed at that time, but I was able to visit with Rector of RIT and Head of Civil Engineering Department. I look forward to the event. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help.

Have a great day!

Myint Lwin
Structural Design Engineer FHWA

Engineer Athletes

The engineering students are known for their athletic prowess. Here is a sampling from the attendees of the Reunion:

• Saya U Tin Htut (M60, Past RUBC Captain and Gold)
• U Tin Htoon (A60, Past RUBC Captain and Gold) won numerous trophies at the RUBC regattas, the National Championships, FEARA (Far East Amateur Rowing Association) and ARAE (Amateur Rowing Association of the East) regattas — Venables Bowls for Coxless Pairs in Calcutta 1958, and Willingdon Trophy for Coxed Fours in Colombo 1960. He won a silver medal for sailing in the SEAP games.
• Ko Htein Win (Richard Taw, “Chauk Pay”, M70) tended the shallow end goal for the RIT water polo team. He also represented RIT in rowing.
• Ko Htaik San (Henry Kao, M81) and Ko Thura Thant Zin (M76) are RUBC Golds. They won gold medals at FEARA regattas.
• Among those who represented RIT include Saya U Myint Lwin (C61), U Than Soe (RUBC Gold, M63), Ko Khin Maung Lay (T 68), Ko Khin Maung Zaw (EC76), …
• Saya Dr. San Hla Aung served as timekeeper and/or starter at the RUBC regattas.
• Ko Khin Maung Zaw (EC76) and Ko Thura Thant Zin (M76) played as last defender and goalie of the RIT Hockey team. KMZ served as TTZ’s coach in hockey. TTZ served as KMZ’s coach in rowing.
• Ko Kyaw Sint (Edward Tai, T70) is a multi-discipline sportsman. He was the Junior National Champion in tennis, a Full Green in rowing, and University First Eleven in soccer.
• Ko Jimmy Kyin (GBNF, T69), Ko Thein Aung (Met 72) and Ko Than Htike (M71) represented RIT in the weightlifting and bodybuilding contests. A picture of the youthful “Mr. University” can be seen in the “Photo Gallery”.
• Ko Khin Maung Lay (T68) represented RIT in track and field, soccer and rowing. He was a member of the University [Second] Eleven.

With metta,
Hla Min

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Count down to SPZP-2012 (15)
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Saya U Moe Aung wrote :

Dear U Hla Min

This is with reference (Update Sept 5, 2012) to your emotional feelings about not being a Saya at RIT and people being not aware of you as a Post Master and an Editor.

It is very natural that with the generation gap growing wider and wider with each passing decade, the middle-aged or the younger people will definitely not- or not wish to- know who their preceding generations are and how they fared or are faring.

Only with the exception of a few who possess strong desires to master some language (e.g. English, Burmese) and to acquire in-depth knowledge and writing skills to become a writer or poet, I believe that not many wish to take up interest in these fields.

Please correct me if my viewpoint is wrong. Since we are living in a modern hi-tech world, especially in capitalist countries, most people tend to chase after monetary gains first and place others last.

But, people who know you will not hesitate to shower their praise on you, because they acknowledge that you have sacrificed a vast portion of your time and energy throughout the years to get RITians connected and feel at home. If I were sitting near or at the same dinner table as you, I am sure I would have done the same thing like Saya Dr Myo Khin and Saya Dr Soe Thein did.

Since I did not see you at the SPZP 2007 dinner night, I thought that it was my duty to call on you the next day and that was why I saw you off at the Airport with Ko Tin Aung Win at the wheel. I remembered that day because it was raining heavily and I was soaked.

For me, U Hla Min, you deserve to be deemed a writer and a poet, because you don’t need to write hundreds to become one. There were some instances of some famous poets who wrote only a few poems in their lifetime.

My memory doesn’t permit me to recall distinctly but only vaguely the ones you wrote. During that period I myself wrote some poems in English and they got published in “The Guardian” Magazine.

We all know you were a Saya at UCC, DCS and ICST. I would like to take this opportunity to mention that my brother-in-law Ko Hla Min (same name) was your former pupil. The last time when you visited Singapore, I heard Ko Hla Min went to meet you.

Well, U Hla Min, this is Life! and whatever will be, will be (Que
Sera Sera).

But as you mentioned, let us share our memories of our beloved Swel Daw Yeik with never ending love and passion.

Let us embrace SPZP 2012 Yangon together!

Regards
[Saya U] Moe Aung

Editor’s notes:

Thanks Saya for your kind words.

Saya’s mentors include the famed Sayagyi Daung Nwe Swe. In his student days and later as a faculty member, Saya not only served as the [Chief] Editor, but also supervised the printing of the Sar Saungs and Magazines. Saya has published poems in both Burmese and English. Saya’s recent contributions include Chair of SPZP-2002 and SPZP-2010, and the Chief Editor and/or Publisher of the commemorative issues of the “Swel Daw Yeik Sar Saung” and “Swel Daw Yeik Magazine”.

Sayagyi U Kyaw Tun, Saya U Myo Kyi, and Saya U Moe Aung are some EE sayas, who taught “Principles of Electrical Engineering” to non-EE students.

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Countdown to SPZP-2012 (81)
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Attended the SPZP-2012 Main Committee Meeting presided by U Win Khaing.

To minimize traffic congestion and parking problems, attendees to SPZP-2012 are requested to car-pool, take buses or taxis.

3000 – 4000 attendees are expected for the morning event.

There will be four groups of sayas and sayamas for the “paying respect” ceremony.

2500 or more attendees are expected to attend the evening event. Tickets are available at K15000 per person. Dinner buffet and entertainment (by the famed Swel Daw Yeik Troupe) are provided.

Review of the Final Draft for the “History of University Engineering Education in Burma/Myanmar” has begun. The printing is scheduled on or around December 16, 2012.

Two Cartoon Boxes will be on display at SPZP-2012. Commemorative “RIT Cartoon Collection” will be on sale at K2000. Several RIT Cartoon Sayas have volunteered to demo their expertise.

The Swel Daw Yeik Magazine committee will have a meeting on or around December 16, 2012. The team is headed by U Saw Linn (C 71) and includes distinguished writers such as Ma Sandar, N. Jar Thaing, and Maung Sein Win (Padeegone).

Copies of 23 vintage “RIT Annual Magazines” will also be on sale. Each magazine costs K3000. The whole set is available at K65000.

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Countdown to SPZP-2012 (82)
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• Saya U Maung Maung (George, ChE66, President, NorCal RITAA)
• Saya U Myat Htoo (C68, Vice President)
• Saya Dr. Tin Aung (K. C. Chiu, ChE 63)
• U Hla Min (EC69)
• U Benny Tan (M70)
• Saya U Thein Aung (James, Met72)
• U Robert Hla Thein (M72)
• Daw San San Nyunt (Sandra, M76)
• U Nyunt Than (M86)

Saya U Maung Maung has requested U Win Khaing (M 75, Chair, SPZP-2012; President, MES) to have a meeting at 3:30 p on December 29, 2012.

U Thaung Sein (Steeve Kay, EC70)

• He is a Multiple SPZP Sponsor at the highest level).
• He will give a 5-minute presentation/announcement at SPZP-2012.
• He provided the “seed money” (US$3000+) for SPZP-2000.
• He has pledged US$5000 for SPZP-2012.
• His other charitable donations include “Relief for Cyclone Nargis victims” (via CABA), “Helen and Steeve Kay Health Care Fund for RIT Sayas and Sayamas”, Golden (and above) sponsorship for all the RIT Grand Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwes,

U Yu Beng (Benny Tan, M70)

• He is a Multiple SPZP Sponsor)
• He will also attend SPZP-2012
• He co-chaired the Working Committee with U Hla Myint Thein (Maurice Chee, M 75) for SPZP-2000.
• He designed the SPZP Banner, and the commemorative T-shirt, mug for SPZP-2000.
• He is currently enjoying his third career as a proud grandfather taking care of the grand kids.

Sayas and Sayamas

• Most sayas and sayamas from overseas and out of town will converge to Yangon around December 26 – 28.
• Some have accepted the two-night stay (for December 29 and 30) provided by the SPZP-2012 organizers/committees/sponsors.
• Sayagyi U Aung Khin (M) and Saya U Tin Htut (M 60) will stay at Winner Inn. Sayagyi U Ba Than (M) will welcome them personally at the air port before taking them to Winner Inn

Main events

Main events for SPZP-2012 will be held on December 30, 2012.

Morning: Saya Pu Zaw Pwe (paying respect to four tiers/groups of sayas and sayamas) in the RIT/YIT/YTU Gyogone Campus

Lunch (probably Birayani/Danbauk and refreshments) will be provided to all attendees

Some souvenirs will be provided to the “registered” attendees

Exhibition booths: photos, cartoon boxes, vintage RIT magazines, list of sponsors/volunteers, ….

Items on sale:

• “History of University Engineering Education in Burma/Myanmar” by Saya U Aung Hla Tun and Ah Phwe,
• Commemorative issue of “SWEL DAW YEIK MAGAZINE” by U Saw Linn (C 71) and Ah Phwe,
• RIT Cartoons by U Myint Pe (M 72) and Ah Phwe
• Souvenirs (ball pens, key chains, calendars, …)

Evening:

Reunion Dinner at Convention Center on Min Dhamma Road

Ticket: K15000 per person

Buffet dinner

Group of 10 sayas/alums may request to be seated at the same table

Entertainment (include the famed SWEL DAW YEIK AH NYEINT, …)

Special request: Please “car-pool” or take public transportation to minimize traffic congestion and parking problems.

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Volumes 1 – 3 of the RIT Annual Magazine were published during Sayagyi U Yone Moe’s tenure; Volumes 4 – 7 were published during Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi’s tenure; and Volumes 8 – 16 were published during Sayagyi U Khin Aung Kyi’s tenure.

Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi served as Chief Editor for the first three volumes. Saya U Aung Hla Tun served as Chief Editor for the next four volumes. Saya U Moe Aung (Tekkatho Moe War) served as Chief Editor for nine volumes.

Seven years would pass without the publication of RIT Magazine.

The name “SWEL DAW YEIK” first came into prominent use in 1970 as a synonym for RIT and the Engineering Colleges and Institutes. Rangoon University was established in 1920 and the Golden Jubilee was celebrated in 1970. I had a minor role as a volunteer on the “Zay Nay Yar Cha Htar Ye Committee”. Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi (then Professor of Civil Engineering) and Saya U Thet Lwin (then teaching Burmese at the Institute of Economics) had major roles on the Main/Preparation Committee. Later, they would rejoin forces as Rector and Registrar of RIT.

I was Editor of the Commemorative RIT Alumni International Newsletter for SPZP-2000. Saya U Moe Aung was Editor/Publisher of the Commemorative SWEL DAW YEIK SAR SAUNG for SPZP-2002, SPZP-2007, and SPZP-2010. Saya printed my poem “SAYA PU ZAW PWE” as the back cover for the 2002 Sar Saung and another poem “SWE DAW YEIK” for the 2007 Sar Saung. Saya also renamed my article about “A Short and Sad Clip : EE Sayas” and printed in the 2010 Sar Saung.

Saya suggested the name SWEL DAW YEIK MAGAZINE for SPZP-2012. The 400-page magazine should quench the literary thirst of the sayas, sayamas, and alums. Autographed copies of the magazines will be available on or before SPZP-2012.

Mark your calendars for December 30, 2012 for the grandest SPZP ever.

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Countdown to SPZP-2012 (88)
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Volumes 1 – 3 of the RIT Annual Magazine were published during Sayagyi U Yone Moe’s tenure; Volumes 4 – 7 were published during Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi’s tenure; and Volumes 8 – 16 were published during Sayagyi U Khin Aung Kyi’s tenure.

Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi served as Chief Editor for the first three volumes. Saya U Aung Hla Tun served as Chief Editor for the next four volumes. Saya U Moe Aung (Tekkatho Moe War) served as Chief Editor for nine volumes.

Seven years would pass without the publication of RIT Magazine.

The name “SWEL DAW YEIK” first came into prominent use in 1970 as a synonym for RIT and the Engineering Colleges and Institutes. Rangoon University was established in 1920 and the Golden Jubilee was celebrated in 1970. I had a minor role as a volunteer on the “Zay Nay Yar Cha Htar Ye Committee”. Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi (then Professor of Civil Engineering) and Saya U Thet Lwin (then teaching Burmese at the Institute of Economics) had major roles on the Main/Preparation Committee. Later, they would rejoin forces as Rector and Registrar of RIT.

I was Editor of the Commemorative RIT Alumni International Newsletter for SPZP-2000. Saya U Moe Aung was Editor/Publisher of the Commemorative SWEL DAW YEIK SAR SAUNG for SPZP-2002, SPZP-2007, and SPZP-2010. Saya printed my poem “SAYA PU ZAW PWE” as the back cover for the 2002 Sar Saung and another poem “SWE DAW YEIK” for the 2007 Sar Saung. Saya also renamed my article about “A Short and Sad Clip : EE Sayas” and printed in the 2010 Sar Saung.

Saya suggested the name SWEL DAW YEIK MAGAZINE for SPZP-2012. The 400-page magazine should quench the literary thirst of the sayas, sayamas, and alums. Autographed copies of the magazines will be available on or before SPZP-2012.

Mark your calendars for December 30, 2012 for the grandest SPZP ever.

by Hla Min

Updated : June 2025

Events

Many events are covered in my posts & Newsletter Updates.

The following are some highlights for 1963 – 2025.

• Spent five years studying at RIT.
• Have spent 26 years paying back to my alma mater and my mentors.
• Thanks to my family members for their support.

1963

Matric Exam

• Took Matric Only exam in May
• Stood 7th in the whole of Burma. Honored at a ceremony at St. Paul’s High School.

• Won the Collegiate Scholarship of 75 kyats a month

• OPA invited us to the Annual Dinner on June 30.

• A newspaper clipping describing the Dinner is shown below. From R to L : Khin Maung U, Min Oo, Myo San, Nyunt Wai, Thein Wai, me & Maung Maung Kyi

• SPHS had five in the Top Five, seven in the Top Ten and ten in the Top Twenty in the Matric exam of 1963. Myo San (Freddie, 3rd), Maung Maung Kyi (11th) and Aung Thu Yein (13th) are now GBNF.
• All our SPHS teachers except Saya Beatson (Physics, Boy Scout) are GBNF. Saya became a monk.

Inter A

• Attended the last ever I.Sc.(A) classes at Leik Khone.

Rowing

• Joined Rangoon University Boat Club with fellow Paulians Maung Maung Kyi (GBNF), Kyaw Wynn and Willie Soe Maung (GBNF). Our crew was Runners up for the Senior Novices. We were awarded Full Green.
• Citing Security Concerns, the RUBC 40th Anniversary Regatta was canceled. Following the 7th July Anniversary protests, the University courses except Medicine & Engineering were suspended. The hostel students were ordered to return to their homes.
• Sithu U Tin (President, GBNF) decided not to cancel the RUBC 40th Anniversary Dinner at Orient Hotel in Kandawgyi. Several members are now GBNF.

1964 – 1969

• The I.Sc(A) exam was held at the High Schools.

RIT

• Attended first ever 2nd BE class at Rangoon Institute of Technology in November 1964.
• I was admitted as the Top student based on the I.Sc(A) exam marks.

Luyechun

• Selected Luyechun in 2nd BE. Attended the Inlay Khaung Daing Camp in the summer of 1965 along with Ko Sein Shwe, Ma Khin Than Myint Tin and Ko Zaw Min.
• The Luyechun program was started in the summer of 1964 with students from 7th to 10th Standards. In 1965, the program also included students from Universities & Institutes.
• Some Luyechuns — Kyaw Sein Koe (IM1), Khin Aye Than (Chemistry), Tun Naung (Dental), Than Sit (Sagaing) and Aung Kyaw Nyunt (Myingyan) — are now GBNF.

Associations

• Served as Joint Secretary, Secretary & Magazine Committee member of the RIT EE Association

• Served as the last ever officially elected Treasurer and Vice Captain of Rangoon University Boat Club. The higher authorities abolished the Bye laws and prevented me from becoming RUBC Captain.

Writing

• Started free lance writing (article, poem, translation …)
• Published the poem “Men on the Moon” in Guardian newspaper in July 1969. USIA sent a copy of the poem to NASA and the astronauts.

Graduation

• Graduated with B.E (EC).
• Of the 13 classmates, 12 graduated. Kyaw Soe, Aung Thu Yein, Chit Tin & Oo Kyaw Hla are now GBNF.

1970 – 1998

Work

• Universities’ Computer Center (UCC) : Computer Engineer, Sr. Systems Programmer, Business Application Manager

• Department of Computer Science (DCS) : Senior Lecturer
• Institute of Computer Science and Technology (ICST) : Associate Professor
• Tech Companies in the Silicon Valley : Member, Senior Member & Principal Member of Technical Staff

Publications & Projects

• Articles & translations in Guardian, Working Peoples’ Daily (WPD), Forward Magazine, Veda ဝေဒ Magazine, and Pan ပန် Magazine.
• Assisted Saya Dr. Chit Swe’s projects including High School Mathematics, Children’s Treasury of Knowledge (CTK), Team of System Specialists (TOSS)
• Wrote Computer Science, Programming & Lecture guides and UCC manuals with Saya U Soe Paing and Saya U Aung Zaw (GBNF).

• Per request from U Myint Sein (Principal, BARB), I assigned Ko Win Latt and Ko Zaw Tun Veda projects and supervised them. Their programs are used by Veda sayas, students & practitioners.

1999

Newsletter

• Started “RIT Alumni International Newsletter”
• It started with the news and photos of some gatherings back in Burma. (a) 30th Anniversary of the Graduation of the Class of 69 — reported by Ko Daniel Tint Lwin and Ma Saw Yu Tint (Alice)
  (b) Mini-gathering with Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi and other sayas and senior alumni — reported by Saya U Soe Paing

2000

SPZP-2000

• First RIT Grand Reunion and SPZP in San Francisco, USA in October 2000
• Commemorative web pages (thanks to KMZ)
• Commemorative Issue of the RIT Alumni International Newsletter by me and team

• 64 Countdown to the Reunion posts
• 36 Post-Reunion posts

2002

SPZP-2002

• Second RIT Grand Reunion and SPZP in Singapore
• Commemorative Issue of “Swel Daw Yeik Sar Saung”
• by Saya U Moe Aung and team
• Reprinted my “SAYA PUZAW PWE” poem as Back Cover

2004

SPZP-2004

• Third RIT Grand Reunion and SPZP in Yangon
• Mild earthquake did not rattle the attendees

2006

Three Gatherings in Sydney

• Visited Sydney, Australia to attend three gatherings
• RIT Alumni Dinner organized by Saya U Hla Myint, Saya U Myo Win (GBNF) & team

• UCC Alumni Gathering hosted by Saya U Aung Zaw (GBNF) and Daw Kyawt

• BOB Gathering at Olympic Park organized by Dr. Thann Naing (Bonnie Kywe)

2007

SPZP-2007

• Fourth RIT Grand Reunion and SPZP in Singapore
• Commemorative Issue of “Swel Daw Yeik Sar Saung” by Saya U Moe Aung and team
• Contributed a poem “SWE DAW YEIK”

UCC Gathering

• UCC gathering in Yangon hosted by Saya U Soe Paing & Daw Saw Yu Tint
• Ko Soe Myint & Ma Nge are now GBNF.

2010

SPZP-2010

• Fifth RIT Grand Reunion and SPZP in Singapore
• Commemorative Issue of “Swel Daw Yeik Sar Saung” by Saya U Moe Aung and team

• Contributed an article : Sad and short clip — EE sayas

2012

SPZP-2012

• Sixth RIT Grand Reunion and SPZP in Yangon
• True “Home Coming” in the Gyogone Campus
• Special publication : History of University Engineering Education in Burma/Myanmar by Saya U Aung Hla Tun & team (Ko Ohn Khine & I compiled the CD supplement for the book)
• Publication: Selected RIT Cartoons
• Commemorative Issue of “Swel Daw Yeik Magazine” by U Saw Lin & team
• Limited reprints of 23 RIT Annual Magazines

2013

SDYF

• Swel Daw Yeik Foundation
• Contributions for various projects
• Health care for the sayas and sayamas

Soon Kyway

• For Golden Jubilee
• Gifts from KMZ, Zaw Tun & Kyu Kyu

2014

RIT Shwe YaDu

• 50th Anniversary of the opening of RIT in 1964
• Planted 50 Swel Daw Bins
• Commemorative Issue of “Swel Daw Yeik Magazine” by Saya U Moe Aung & team (Contributed an article : “Recollections of a 69er”)

• Paved Shwe YaDu lane and set up Swel Daw Yeik benches
• Translated Saya U Moe Aung’s Shwe YaDu poem

2016

SPZP-2016

• RIT/YIT/YTU Alumni Association
• Seventh RIT Grand Reunion and SPZP in Yangon
• 10000+ attendees
• Free food and fun (all day and all night long)
• Platinum Jubilee for the Class of 69
• Hosted by some 69ers for their friends (in their sunset)

Appreciation Awards

• Soonkway at Half Moon Bay Monastery (organized by U Maurice Chee)

• Received Alumni Appreciation Award from alumni worldwide

• Annual Dinner by Northern California RIT Alumni Association

• Received plaque signed by Saya U Myat Htoo (Chair, BOD), U Kaung Kaung Oo (Gordon, President), and U Thaung Nyunt (Secretary)

Gatherings

• Attended SPZP-2016 and Platinum Jubilee of the Class of 69

2017

Post-SPZP

• Attended Post-SPZP2016 Gatherings

DTM

• Awards : Distinguished Toastmaster

2018

UCC & ICST

• Attended 5th Acariya Pu Zaw Pwe of ICST/UCSY
• Memories of UCC : 40+ posts
• Trivia : 2000+ posts
• Archived and revised posts in hlamin.com

2019

69er GJ

• Golden Jubilee of Graduation of the Class of 69

ILF

• Panelist, 5th Irrawaddy Literary Festival

2020

• PSA Tour in Jan 2020
• After announcement of pandemic in Feb 2020, many social activities were paused.

2021 – 2023

Visits

• Short visits (e.g Singapore, Malaysia)

NorCal RITAA

• Some social activities were resumed.

2024

Visits

• Short visits to Thailand and Laos
• Attended EE85 Reunion as Guest of Edward Saw (Yu Ket).

Celebrations

• NorCal RITAA celebrated Centennial of Engineering Education in Burma & 60th Anniversary of RIT
• Saya U Nyunt Htay, Mg Mar Ga & team organized the recording of video messages of some sayas & sayamas. They can be accessed from YouTube channel & website of NorCal RITAA.

2025

• Still have good physical & mental health.
• Updating posts in my website

Thanks

• My ancestors

• Family members
• သင်ဆရာ၊ မြင်ဆရာ၊ ကြားဆရာ
• Benefactors

by Ohn Khine & Hla Min

Updated : June 2025

Constraints

Due to time & resource constraints, only a fraction of the materials could be described in the book “History of University Engineering Education in Burma/Myanmar”

CD Supplement

U Ohn Khine (M70) and I compiled references, articles in English and photos that were not covered in the book into a CD.

We attempted to cover as much historical data and articles as possible.

Materials for non-Burmese readers

• Part 1 of the HMEE book was translated by U Ohn Khine (M 70). Saya Des Rodgers corrected the contextual and usage errors.
• Part 2 is not a complete translation of the Burmese text. To avoid duplication of some materials (e.g. lengthy tables), we have chosen to present a summary & overview.

Archives

• Archives from the RIT web sites: http://www.ex-rit.org and http://www.rit-alumni.info.
  Thanks to U Khin Maung Zaw and U Wunna Ko Ko for designing and maintaining the web sites.
• Archives from the SPZPs: SPZP-2000 (San Francisco), SPZP-2002, SPZP-2007 and SPZP-2010 (Singapore), and SPZP-2004 (Yangon)

Photo Albums

• From ex-RIT web sites, RIT Alumni Facebook Pages, Sayagyi U Ba Than, Saya U Soe Paing and U Myo Myint (EC67)

History of the Engineering Departments

• By Dr. Aung Gyi (Rector), U Min Wun (C), U Aung Khin (M), U Soe Khaw (Min), U Thit (Met), U Myo Myint Sein (A)

Selected Posts

• Excerpts from “RIT Alumni International Newsletter Updates” from 1999 – 2012 by U Hla Min (EC 69)

Interviews

• Saya U Tin U, Saya U Ba Than and Saya U Khin Aung Kyi gave interviews for HMEE-2012 project.

Proofreaders

• Saya U Soe Paing, U Ohn Khine and I proof read HMEE-2012 and provided corrections (e.g. RIT Luyechun list did not contain 1965), but they was not enough time to do all the corrections.

HMEE projects

• Saya U Aung Hla Tun is the leader for HMEE-2012 and HMEE-2018 Projects.
• HMEE-2018 will cover revisions and extensions to HMEE-2012.
• Due to the pandemic and Saya’s demise, HMEE-2018 is in limbo.

by Tint Lwin (Danny)

Updated : June 2025

The 1969 RIT Graduates Reunion was held in Rangoon/Yangon,

Burma/Myanmar on Saturday, 20 February 1999 at Sait-Teng-Kya Restaurant near Kandawgyi lake.

The idea was mooted three years ago when a few of us were having dinner together and thought of having a gathering in 1999. After that most of us have forgotten about the idea until around the end of November 1998 when a group of our friends led by Ko Yee Pinn (Tavoy), Ko Myint Maung (aka “Bu”, RIT Volleyball selected), Ko Shwe, Ko Win Lwin, etc. decided to have a grand re-union in February 1999. They also decided that to be more meaningful we should invite our Sayas to pay them respect as well and, hence, it became the reunion cum Saya-ga-daw-pwe.

On that very day the guest trickled in starting from about 4.00 p.m at the restaurant. The guests were required to fill in their names and contact numbers. The organizers promised to compile the name list and send to everybody who attended. By 6.00 p.m. about 30 Sayas and about 120 of our graduates were in the restaurant. The master-of-ceremony, Ko Win Lwin, announced the start of the ceremony.

The programme started off with a few speeches, led by Nyi Hla Nge, representing the graduates in Rangoon, followed by Danny, representing the graduates overseas, Sai Aung Win, representing graduates outside Rangoon and last but not the least, by Saya U Kyin Soe, representing all the Sayas.

After that we gave respect to the Sayas. All the Sayas were seated on the stage and all of us sat on the floor. Some gifts were distributed to the Sayas followed by photo taking session and then the sumptuous dinner began. About 9 to 10 dishes were served but, most of us were too excited to notice what we were eating. Halfway through the dinner some of us went up the stage and sang some songs for entertainment. Even all the ladies, led by Alice and Naw Mu Mu Aye were on the stage as well. The crowd went wild.

The party ended at about 9.30 p.m. with some of the graduates not so sober. It was indeed a memorable gathering and we all vowed to meet again in December 2000 at place and date to be announced early next year. Three cheers to the organizers and those who have one way or the other help in making this event a great success.

by Hla Min

Updated : June 2025

Amateur Historian

Despite my imperfect memory, I have morphed into an Oral and Written Historian of my alma mater with the help of sayas, sayamas, and alums who shared their walks down memory lane and precious photos to be published in the “RIT Alumni International Newsletter Updates” (1999 – present). Thanks.

Class of 69 is unique

Our Class is unique in the following sense.

Four Government Examinations

• Took the last ever 7th Std Government exam in 1960.
• Took the first ever 9th Std — High School Final Only Exam — in March 1962. Except for English, we had to answer all subjects in Burmese. Under the tight security imposed by the 17-man Revolutionary Council, we completed the exam.
• To our surprise and dismay, the HSF examination for Rangoon Division was annulled. Had given my text books. Had to re-take the HSF exam in August 1962.
• Took the 10th Std — Matric (only) Exam — in May 1963.
  1263 students from Rangoon.
  Khin Maung U (SPHS) stood first in the whole of Burma.
  He was followed by Min Oo (SPHS, 2nd), Myo San (Freddie, SPHS, 3rd, GBNF), Nyunt Wai (Victor, SPHS, 4th), Thein Wai (SPHS, 5th), Kenny Wong (MEHS, 6th) and Hla Min (SPHS, 7th).

• SPHS had five in the Top Five, seven in the Top Ten, and ten in the Top Twenty. They were awarded Collegiate Scholarship for 75 Kyats a month.

Guinea Pig of Education Systems

• The education system wanted us to spend one more year in school before attending the university.
• Is it our fate or destiny to serve as guinea pigs of Educators?

I.Sc. (A) at Leik Khone

• Attended the last ever I. Sc.(A) classes at “Leik Khone လိပ်ခုံး” on Prome Road. Leik Khone was used by Faculty of Engineering before it moved to Gyogone.
• Willie Soe Maung (Myint Soe, GBNF), Kyaw Wynn, Maung Maung Kyi (GBNF) and I — joined RUBC. Our crew was Senior Novices Runner-up at the Monsoon Regatta. Earned Full Greens at the end of the season.
• Due to security reasons (following the Anniversary protests of 7th July), the Annual Regatta was cancelled, but Sithu U Tin (President, RUBC) decided to hold the Dinner gathering for the 40th Anniversary at Orient Club in Kandawgyi. Souvenir Magazine was compiled by Sithu U Tin (GBNF), U Po Zon (GBNF) and U Tin Htoon.

• Took the last ever I. Sc.(A) exam at the designated high schools.
• Most of Rangoon University (except Medical and Engineering Colleges) were suspended following the fateful anniversary celebration of “7th July and the demolition of the historic Rangoon University Students’ Union”.
• Those who were a year senior to us in High School graduated 2.5 years ahead of us. We lost 1.5 precious years.

School Closure

• Before the universities reopened, scholarship bids (mostly to Soviet Union and East Bloc nations) were opened to students who are 18+ years old. I did not qualify. Maung Maung Kyi (GBNF) and Kyaw Wynn received scholarship to study Engineering at Dresden University in GDR.

New Education System

• The then new “University Education System” replaced the “old” model of Rangoon University with several Faculties : Arts, Science, Social Science, Engineering, Medicine, Law.
• The system created institutes such as Rangoon Institute of Technology, Institute of Medicine, Institute of Economics, and Institute of Education.
• RASU (Rangoon Arts and Science University) and MASU (Manadalay Arts and Science University) were the core left from the Rangoon University and Mandalay University.
• In November 1964, three batches of students were admitted to the first ever 1st B.E., 2nd B.E., and 3rd B.E. classes.

• Ma Than Yi (Maubin Ma Shwe Than, EP70) has blogged about her reminiscences of 1st B.E.
• Ko Zaw Min Nawaday (EP70) and Ko Ohn Khine (M70) have described the academic and extra-curricular activities for ’64 to ’70.
• The list of 400+ students who entered 1st BE has been compiled by Ko Ohn Khine and team. Notable alumni from that class have also been portrayed in their Golden Jubilee Magazine published in November, 2014.
• The list of 300+ students who entered 2nd BE has been compiled by Ko Aung Min (M69) and team. 69ers had major reunions for 30th Anniversary (in 1999), 40th Anniversary (in 2009), SPZP-2012, Pseudo-Golden Jubilee (for the admission to RIT) in 2014, True Golden Jubilee (for graduation) z& SPZP in December, 2019. Sad to note that more than 40% from the class are GBNF.
• The authorities used I.Sc (A) results to admit students to 2nd B.E. I was at the top of the list followed by Taing Oke and Kenny Wong.
• I was selected Luyechun (Outstanding Student) along with Ko Sein Shwe (4th BE), Ko Zaw Min (1st BE), and Ma Khin Than Myint Tin (Margaret, 2nd BE, RIT selected in track and Field). In the summer of 1965, we attended the Inlay Khaung Daing Camp with Luyechuns from other universities and institutes, and high school.

• Several high school Luyechuns (e.g. Ma Pwint Than, Uttam Singh, Ko Aung Win, Ko Win Myint) joined RIT two years later.

Difficult Choices

• Had to decide Major before attending 3rd BE. Civil and Mechanical were the top choices. Many joined RIT faculty after graduation.
• 80+ students — Ko Thein Swe (GBNF), Ko Khin Maung Win (GBNF), Ko Aung Kyaw Pe, Ko Tun Aung Gyaw, Ko Toung and I — chose to major in Electrical. Joined by some seniors. Some took sabbatical or were hit by the infamous 75% attendance rule, or by the strict moderation (failing a minor subject even though the average was 2.5+)
• Had to decide before attending 5th BE. Ratio of EP (Power) to EC (Communication) was 3:1.
  Rationale was that EP had a reasonably good market with EPC being the chief employer of EP graduates. EC had a limited market with PTC, BBS, DCA, and MOC/MOGE.
• Many top students such as Ko Thein Swe, Ko Khin Maung Win and Ko Aung Kyaw Pe chose to major in EP. After graduation, most joined EPC and other corporations.
• 13 or so students such as Ko Tun Aung Gyaw, Ko Toung and I chose to major in EC. Ma Tin Tin (Ann), the lone female EE student, chose EC. Ko Than Lwin (Henry) joined the faculty. Some worked for DCA, MOC and Schlumberger. A couple migrated to the US.

Universities’ Computer Center

• At one Burma Research Conference, Saya U Soe Paing presented a paper on digital computers zand logic. Sayagyi Dr. Chit Swe (GBNF) requested Saya U Soe Paing to help him with the UCC project to be submitted to UNDP).
• Saya U Soe Paing requested top EC students to join his project. The proposal, vetting, and approval of UNDP projects took a long time; so many students took available jobs.
• When the project was finally approved by UNDP, UCC was established at Thamaing College Campus. Dr. Chit Swe became the founder/director.
  U Soe Paing, U Myo Min, and U Ko Ko Lay (GBNF), became co-founders and Managers. After volunteering for a considerable time, Ko Tun Aung Gyaw and I joined UCC as the first batch of employees.

• For details, read “Computer Ah Sa UCC Ga” by U Soe Paing, my interview with Mandalay Gazette and my series of articles “Memories of UCC”.

Activities

• In my Newsletter Updates, I mentioned some of my extra-curricular activities.
• Class Representative, Magazine Committee member, Joint Secretary and Secretary of RIT Electrical Engineering Association.
• Last ever elected Treasurer and Vice Captain of Rangoon University Boat Club. Due to the changes in policy, I was denied to become Captain (as originally stipulated by RUBC rules). Higher authorities installed a committee of sayas to oversee RUBC.
• As a member of the RIT Rowing team, I attended the “Appreciation” Ceremony by the RIT Sports Council, then chaired by Saya U Maung Maung Than. Applauded the accomplishments of multi-sports athletes such as Ko Aung Khin (M 67), Saw Maung Maung Htwe (Class of 70), Ko Khin Maung Lay (Henry, T 68), and Inter Institute Champions (Badminton, Chinlon, Soccer, Table Tennis, Tennis, Weight lifting & Body Building).
• Served as EC & editor of RIT English Association. Represented 2nd BE in a debate along with Ko Myo Tun (Bobby), and Ko Khin Maung Win (Roland Thein). The 1st BE team led by Ahmed Soorma won. Received “Rhyming Dictionary” as a prize. Gave my dictionary to Ashin Ananda (Rev. F. Lutvig, Poet Laureate).
• Founding member of RIT Chess Association along with the accomplished players like Ko Aung Than, Ko Maung Maung, Ko Thet Lwin (Henry) and visiting Soviet lecturers.
• Joined Universities’ Training Corps (UTC) for a while before the schedule conflicts with rowing.
• Sai Kyaw Aye (part-time BBS) invited us to learn and sing “Auld Lang Syne” in Shan.
• Wrote short notes for “Hset Hmu Thadin Zin” and articles for “Hlyat Sit Sar Saung” & “RIT English Bulletin”.
• In July 1969, I wrote a poem “Men on the Moon” to honor the Apollo 11 mission. It was published in the Guardian daily newspaper. A copy was sent by Mr. Hall (USIS) to National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
• In December 1969, Daw Khin Swe Hla asked me to translate a short story “Nge Thay Loe” by Sayagyi U Thu Kha for publishing as the Sunday Supplement for Working People’s Daily (WPD). My translation “Still So Young” earned me 50 kyats. U Thu Ka was given an honorarium of 50 kyats. In those days, 1 US dollar was worth 5 to 6 kyats.
• In my Newsletter Updates, I mentioned about my dreams — to get the sayas and alums reconnected electronically and physically, and to repay the metta and cetana of my mentors. U Soe Paing was a driving force, and Ko Khin Maung Zaw worked long weekends to set up http://www.ex-rit.org
• Was a saya at UCC, DCS and ICST. Attended the 5th and 6th Arcariya Pu Zaw Pwe of ICST and UCSY.
• I am not a saya at RIT. I was not eligible for the world wide SPZPs.
• I was deeply moved when Saya U Moe Aung visited Ko Tin Aung Win’s house after SPZP-2007 and accompanied us to the air port. Before SPZP-2012, Saya gave me two vintage RIT Annual Magazines from his private collection and other gifts.
• Dr. Soe Thein (C75), web master & videographer of SPZP-2007, invited me to the Civil Reunion & SPZP. He invited me to the C75 gathering before SPZP-2012.
• I had contact with Ko Wynn Htain Oo (M72) via Facebook.
  M72 group (WHO, Ko Myint Pe, …) invited me to join the M72 gathering and mini-SPZP.
  Event was solemn, because Ko Khin Maung Toe had passed away. “Thamudaya Kyaung” DVD is among my souvenirs.
• Smiles from my mentors, and “random acts of kindness” help me burn midnight oil and keep on going the extra mile.
• I would like to end by paying tribute to the countless sayas, sayamas, and alums who have kept the RIT Spirit alive and well.

Tribute

The following provide different perspectives of our beloved alma mater.

• RIT Annual Magazines
  Chief Editors include Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi, Saya U Aung Hla Tun (GBNF) and Saya U Moe Aung. Publishers include U Hla and Saya U Thet Lwin. Limited edition of 23 (or so) RIT Annual Magazines was reprinted for SPZP-2012
• Discipline-wide magazines such as “Hlat Sit Sar Saung” (published by the RIT Electrical Engineering Association with Saya U Moe Aung as Chief Editor and Publisher)
• Weekly “Hset Hmu Thadin Zin” founded by Ko Win Thein (M 67, GBNF) and associates
  An alum couple archived several years worth of Hset Hmu Thadin Zin
• “Cartoon Box” founded by Ko Myint Pe (M 72) with the patronage of Saya U Khin Maung Phone Ko (“Phone Ko”, C64, cartoonist for Kye Mon newspaper and several magazines) and Saya U Aung Myint (Pet 69, creator of “Kyant Ba Hone”, GBNF)
• Ko Myint Pe & team compiled cartoons from Cartoon Box, Hset Hmu Thadin Zin, and RIT Annual Magazines for the commemorative issue of “RIT Cartoons” for SPZP-2012.
  Three (or so) generations of Cartoon Box authors set up a booth at SPZP-2012 and autographed books for sale.
• HMEE — History of Myanmar Engineering Education
  by Saya U Aung Hla Tun (GBNF) and team. Sayagyi U Ba Than, U Thaw Kaung (Chief Librarian, Rangoon University Central Library), and U Soe Paing (EE, UCC) provided historical photos & documents
• The companion CD to the HMEE-2012 Book was compiled by Ko Ohn Khine (M 70) and me
• RIT web sites
  http://www.ex-rit.org designed by Ko Khin Maung Zaw & http://www.rit-alumni.info designed by Ko Wunna Ko Ko
• Commemorative web pages for SPZP-2000 include 64 “Count down to the Reunion”, 36 “Post-Reunion” articles, & “SAYA PU ZAW PWE” poem
• Early “RIT Alumni International Newsletter Updates” by me were posted in http://www.ex-rit.org (now dormant)
• Subsequent “RIT Alumni International Newsletter Updates” by Ko Hla Min (EC 69) were posted in http://www.rit-alumni.info (now dormant)
• RIT-related Facebook Pages
  Saya U Moe Aung,
  Saya U Kyaw Sein (M65, GBNF)
  Ma Than Yi (EP70),
  Ko Ohn Khine (M70),
  Ko Saw Lin (C71, GBNF),
  Ko Myint Pe (M72),
  Ko Wynn Htain Oo (M72),
  Ko Khin Maung Lwin (M87)
• Commemorative issue of “RIT Alumni International Newsletter” for SPZP-2000″ edited by me & team
• Commemorative issues of “Swel Daw Yeik Sar Saung” for SPZP-2002, SPZP-2007 and SPZP-2010 edited & published by Saya U Moe Aung and team
• Commemorative issue of “Swel Daw Yeik Magazine” for SPZP-2012, Shwe YaDu in 2014 and SPZP-2016
• “Shwe YaDu Magazine” edited by Ko Khin Maung Lay (M70) & team was published in conjunction with the Acariya Pu Zaw Pwe of the combined 1st BE intake of ’64 and ’65
• “Thamudaya Kyaung (Parts One and Two)” DVD : Based on the poems by Maung Sein Win (Padeegone); Played and sung by Ko Khin Maung Toe (GBNF)
• Swel Daw Yeik Ah Nyeint
  According to Saya U Moe Aung, the term “Swel Daw Yeik” became an official synonym for RIT, its predecessors and successors at the Rangoon University Golden Jubilee celebrations in 1970. Ma Mya Than Win (Minthamee) and Ko Myint Pe (Lu Shwin Daw) were members of the Swel Daw Yeik Ah Nyeint.
• Gee Ta See Sar (Musical evening) : Ko Kyaw Oo (pianist, GBNF), Ko Yu Swan (Don min), Sayama “Emma” Tin Tin Myint, Ko Kyaw Htin (“Chee Hte Nu Nu Kyaw”), Ko Than Myaing, Ko Tin Maung Aye, Ko Soe Aung and Ko La Min are some of the performers at the early Gee Ta See Sar’s
• Saya U Moe Aung, Saya U Thet Lwin, Saya U Saw Tun (“Saw Lu”), Saya Dr. Taing Oke (“Yin Maung”), U Toee Maung, U Than Po (GBNF) are some of the “Zat Saya” and/or composers.
• U Thet Lwin‘s compositions include “Mya Kyun Nyo Nyo Kun Yeik Kho” (granted a “Dat Pyar” by Burma Broadcasting Service). The song has been sung at the various RIT-related gatherings such as Singapore Thingyan and world-wide SPZPs.The song was sung in the ceremony (on December 1, 2019) to kick off the Rangoon University Centennial Celebration.

Thoughts

• To paraphrase the Curator of Smithsonian Museum, “There is no unique history. It is not uncommon to have parallel competing and often contradictory histories of an event.”
• Feel free to revise my recollections of my RIT days and my contributions as an informal historian.

by Hla Min

Updated : June 2025

Steeve Kay

• Admitted to 1st BE as a top student along with Zaw Min, Tommy Shwe, Cho Aye and Peter Pe.
• Graduated with B.E (Electrical Comminication) in 1970.
• Migrated to USA.
• Received MS from Stanford University and MBA from Pepperdine University.
• Had successful careers as IC Designer, Co-founder & CEO of QTC Management, Entrepreneur & Philanthropist.

Steeve’s Dreams

Special Reunion & PZP

• The Combined 1st BE intake of 64 & 65 hosted annually at least one Reunion and Acariya Pu Zaw Pwe.
• Steeve Kay (EC70), Benny Tan (M70) and U Tha Htay (M70) were major Donors / Sponsors.
• In 2006, Steeve requested Benny Tan and me to organize the event on his behalf. Due to his health, he could not travel to Yangon to host the event.
• U Ohn Khine took me to U Win Htay’s office to meet the volunteers / organizers of “Combined 1st BE Intake of 64 & 65”. I asked the group to help realize Steeve’s request. U Win Htay & team agreed to copy the SPZP-2000 DVD & the commemorative issue of the RIT Alumni Newsletter to be provided in the Gift Package.
• We requested U Khin Maung Kay (Mutu) to serve as Master of Ceremonies.
• We requested Benny and Saya U Win Mra (English) to speak
• I gave the Keynote at the event.
• Sayas and Sayamas were offered mementos and Garawa money.

Special Gathering

Greetings

Welcome to this gathering! Today is a special gathering organized by the 64/65 intakes and sponsored by the Steeve and Helen Kay Saya Health Fund. Today’s event complements last month’s 64/65 intake held an Acariya Pu Zaw Pwe and tomorrow’s seventh RIT Grad Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe.

Appreciation

In addition to paying our respect to the sayas and sayamas, today we would also like to present to Ko Thaung Sein (Steeve Kay, EC70) an appreciation award for his continued support. Although Steeve Kay migrated to the US in 1971 to pursue his dreams, he never forgot his roots, his alma mater and his friends. Over the past 17 years, Steeve has made various contributions totaling $200,000. Highlights of those contributions are as follows:

Golden Sponsor for SPZPs

As you recall, the first ever RIT Grad Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe was held in the year 2000. It was started by a group of RIT students in San Francisco, among them Ko Benny Tan and me. I remember when I sent out the invitation flyers, we received a $1,000 check from Steeve. Later, he donated $3,000 as seed money to assist with fundraising efforts. Throughout the years, Steeve has supported multiple world-wide reunions and SPZP as a golden sponsor.

Health Care Fund

In June 2005, Steeve set-up a $50,000 Saya Health Care Fund administered by U Win Khaing of MES and his administrative committee. Many saya/sayamas attending today have benefited from that fund. Steeve Kay also helped to set-up a second fund, administered by the 64/65 intakes, as a supplemental retirement fund for the sayas and sayamas.

Kay Family Foundation

In May 2013, Kay Family Foundation, a philanthropic foundation set-up by Steeve Kay, sponsored the MoST (Ministry of Science and Technology) delegation to visit Centers of Excellence in California. The delegation was headed by the late Dr. Ko Ko Oo and Professor Nyi Hla Nge.

2015 Alumni Reunion in Los Angeles

Last year, in October 2015, Steeve Kay donated $30,000 in matched funds to hold the RIT in Southern California, Los Angeles. During the gathering, he sang a Burmese folk song ‘Shwe Me’ to express his feeling towards Myanmar, the land where he spent his youth growing up.

Health concerns

This year, Steeve Kay’s own health fell ill. We wish him good health. Instead of attending the RIT Grad Reunion himself, he asked Ko Benny to hold a gathering and Pu Zwe Pwe this year. Ko Benny consulted with his classmates and decided that December 28, 2016 – the day preceding the Seventh RIT Grand Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe – seemed to be the right time. The classmates, in turn, would like to honor their life-long friend and sponsor of numerous RIT-related activities.

History and Philanthropy of Steeve

The history of Steeve and his philanthropic work should be recorded and preserved for posterity.

Every saya and sayama will be presented with a gift package from Steeve. It will include:

• A short biography of Steeve
• The commemorative issue of the RIT Alumni Newsletter for SPZP-2000
• A two-set DVD of SPZP-2000
• A CD of photos and articles related to SPZP and RIT-related activities
• A monetary gift of K1 lakh for each saya and sayama, and an additional K1 lakh for sayagyis

Agenda

Today’s event covers three parts:

• Paying respect to the sayas and sayamas who taught the Combined Intake of 64 and 65 students
• A mini-gathering of the Combined Intake of 64 and 65 students
• Appreciation award to be presented to Ko Thaung Sein (Steeve Kay, EC70)

Ko Khin Maung Lay will be the emcee.

Selected sayas and alumni will recall Steeve’s work and their importance and impact to the RIT community.