Category: RIT

Engineering Schools in Burma

  • Messenger

    Messenger

    by Hla Min

    Update : September 2026

    RIT Community

    • Served as a messenger for the RIT & Engineering Community for 27 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 Byadi have 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.
  • Among My Souvenirs

    Among My Souvenirs

    by Hla Min

    Updated : September 2026

    Golden Jubilee

    • Celebrated GJ with a Soon Kyway at Singapore Chan Myei Yeik Tha
    • Received GJ present from Ko Zaw Tun (UCC) and Ma Kyu in Singapore
    • Ko Khin Maung Zaw / KMZ (EC76, UCC) mailed a GJ present from Kirkland, Washington

    Present from KMZ

    Birthday Wishes

    Birthday Wishes
    • Maurice Chee (M75) organized a Birthday Soon Kyway at Dhammananda Vihara, Half Moon Bay on August 20, 2016.
    • He prepared electronic & hard copy of the birthday wishes.
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    Awards & Birthday Cards
    • Another set was for attendees, who had not sent wishes by e-mail.
    • Thanks to the sayas, colleagues and friends for a memorable gathering.

    Appreciation from Alumni in US & Canada

    • Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi could not attend the soonkyway, but he requested Maurice to donate a food dish for him & his family.
      Sayagyi’s message was read by Maurice.
    • Saya U Myat Htoo (C68) presented the appreciation award at Half Moon Bay soonkwyay and gathering.
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    Appreciation Award

    From NorCal RITAA Dinner in Dec 2016

    • Alumni Appreciation Award was signed by Saya U Myat Htoo (C68, Chair, BOD), Gordon Kaung (M83, President) and U Thaung Nyunt (M87, Secretary).
    Award 2
    • Saya U Myat Htoo presented the award to me at the NorCal RITAA Annual Dinner, 2016.

    From SPHS in 1963

    There were five Paulians in the Top Five, seven in the Top Ten, and ten in the Top Twenty. They received Collegiate Scholarship.

    SPHS63
    • Dr. Khin Maung U (Retired from FDA, USA) – 1st
    • Dr. Min Oo (Retired Maths Professor in Canada) – 2nd
    • Dr. Myo San (Freddie, Surgeon, GBNF) – 3rd
    • Dr. Nyunt Wai (Victor, Professor in IM & Malaysia) – 4th
    • Dr. Thein Wai (Migrated to USA after graduation) – 5th
    • U Hla Min (Retired Software Engineer) – 7th
    7th place
    • Dr. Aung Kyaw Zaw (Cardiologist) – 9th
    • U Maung Maung Kyi (Dip Ing, GBNF) – 11th
    • U Aung Thu Yein (Brownie, EC69, GBNF) – 13th
    • Dr. Khin Maung Zaw (Frank, Retired Doctor in UK) – 17th

    From Toastmasters International

    DTM 1
    DTM 2
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    Hall of Fame

    Awards

    • CC (Competent Communicator)
    • ACB (Advanced Communicator Bronze)
    • ACS (Advanced Communicator Silver)
    • ACG (Advanced Communicator Gold)
    • CL (Competent Leader)
    • ALB (Advanced Leader Bronze)
    • ALS (Advanced Leader Silver)
    • DTM (Distinguished Toastmaster)

    I served as

    • Club Officer
    • Area Governor
    • Club Coach
    • Contest Chair
    • Ambassador
    • Guest Speaker
    • Test Speaker
    • Team Builder (for Excellent Leadership)

    MP3 players

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    Mug & CD Player

    Dhamma Talks & Lectures

    • Received MP3 player with dhamma talks from U Khin Maung Tun, SDYF President
      at 2015 RIT Alumni Reunion in Los Angeles

    Also received MP3 players from

    • Saya U Tin Maung Nyunt
    • My sisters
    • Dhamma friends

    Each player has Paritta Pali (protective verses) and dhamma talks by different sayadaws.

    From my Life Savers

    Coffee mug with photos

    My beloved grandchildren gave it as present for Grand Father’s Day

    Books

    Dhamma & Bawa

    For writing, translating, editing or proof-reading

    I edited or proof-read books written by

    • Sayadaws (U Silananda, U Jotalankara)
    • Sayas (Des Rodgers)
    • Friends (U Aung Zaw).

      They provided me copies of their books.

    Book Presents

    I received books from others. They include

    • “Life Journey of Maths Professor U Ba Toke” : autographed copy
    U Ba Toke
    • “Myanmar in my life-time”
      by BBS U Khin Zaw — air mailed from Australia by U Wint Khin Zaw
    Book by U Khin Zaw
    • Book honoring Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint — air mailed from Australia by Dr. TOKM
    TOKM
    • Centennial for U Khin Maung Latt & Daw Khin Myo Chit —
      Two books by Junior Win
    • Books by U Ye Sint (former Editor of Dhammananda Newsletter) : His works; Pathan Dethana (Dhamma Dana by his siblings)
    • U Kesala (Chief Resident monk, Alodaw Pyie Monastery in Arizona) : Dhamma Q&A; Several other books
    • “Nga Doh Khit Ka Tekkatho”
      by Shwe Ky May Hnin —
      Given to me at San Francisco Bay Area Talk
    Book by Shwe Ku May Hnin
    • Books by Saya U Moe Aung (Tekkatho Moe War) —Collection of Poems; Collection of Articles
    Saya Moe
    • Book by Saya U Nyunt Htay —
      Collection of Swel Daw Poems
    RIT Poets
    • Books by Nyan Oo Maung
      (aka Mudita Shwe Kyaung Sayadaw U Nyanika)
    • Books by various sayadaws in Bay Area & beyond : Beelin Sayadaw, U Dhammapiya, U Gosita, Dhamma Bheri Sayadaw, Aung San Tat Oo Sayadaw, Thamanay Kyaw
    • Books by Dr. San Oo, Daw Than Yi and family
    • “Yahandar and Poke Ko Htoo Myar” by Dhammacariya U Htay Hlaing — in the 80’s for translating several of his “Dhamma Duta” articles
    • Books by Sayawun Tin Shwe
      — Given by his daughter Tyn Tyn Aye during her UCC studies
    • U Khin Maung Zaw (KMZ) mailed me two books that he bought in Myanmar : U Thant Ah Yay Ah Khin, Collection Bagan poems (by Zawgyi, translated by Ah May Thar).
    • Saya U Tin Maung Nyunt believes in a revolving library.
      Gave me several books that he enjoyed reading.
    • 8-8-88 by Dat Pone Htein Win — Received at 5th ILF
    • Books by Members of Professional Spakers Association (PSA) : Kyaw Kyaw Hlaing, Kaythri Kyaw …

    Publications

    Contributing Editor for “90th Anniversary Issue of the Founding of RUBC” (2013)

    Wrote articles and/ or poems for

    • Guardian
    • Working People’s Daily
    • Forward Magazine
    • Veda Magazine
    • Pan Magazine
    • Encyclopedia of Asian American Folklore and Folklife
    Encyclopedia
    • BAPS Newsletter
    • RIT Alumni Newsletter (Special issue for SPZP-2000)
    Newsletter
    • “Swel Daw Yeik Sar Saung” for SPZP-2002, SPZP-2007 & SPZP-2010
    SDY Sar Saung
    • “Swel Daw Yeik Magazine” for Shwe YaDu
    SDY Magazine

    U Ohn Khine (M70) and I compiled the CD supplement for HMEE-2012.

    CDs

    Received raw and formal CDs and DVDs for the various RIT Gatherings.

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    DVD
  • RIT — Class of 1974

    RIT — Class of 1974

    by Hla Min

    Update : September 2026

    M74

    U Myo Myint

    U Myo Myint
    • Distinguished artist
    • Designed the Cover of several RIT Annual Magazines & Commemorative Swel Daw Yeik Magazines
    • Drew Pon Tu of sayas & sayamas. Offered them as gifts
    • Drew paintings and exhibited them at SPZPs and Shwe YaDu.
    • Donated proceeds of the sales of his paintings for RIT-related activities.
    • Donated K3 Lakhs to Swel Daw Yeik Foundation
    • Donated K2 Lakhs for YTU Library Modernization Project
    Donation for SDYF by Bagyee Myo Myint

    Maung Maung Thant

    • Younger brother of Maung Maung Kyi
    • Ye Kyaung Lu Nge

    Sann Aung (GBNF)

    Sann Aung
    • Han Tha Aye Nylon
    • RUBC Gold
    • RIT Shay Saung Co-op
    • Dat Pone (U.S.A Lab)

    EP74

    Dr. Htay Lwin Nyo (GBNF)

    Luyechun
    • RIT Luyechun
    • M.Sc (CS)
    • Ph.D (EE), Syracuse University
    • Passed away in San Jose, California
    News about HLN

    U Myint Swe

    U Myint Swe
    • Founding member, NorCal RITAA
    • Past Secretary, NorCal RITAA
    • Vice President, NorCal RITAA

    EC74

    Daw San San Swe (San San Nwe)

    San San Swe
    • Founding member, NorCal RITAA
    • Has a large Class Photo

    Sai Aung Thu Rein (GBNF)

    • M.Sc (CS)
    • Worked in Singapore & Australia
    • Passed away in Sydney, Australia

    EE74 Gathering

    • Sample photo from the gathering
    EE74

    ChE74

    • Class photo provided by Saya U Htun Aung Kyaw
  • Alumni — Donor of  $200000+ to RIT-related Activities

    Alumni — Donor of $200000+ to RIT-related Activities

    by Hla Min

    Updated : September 2026

    Steeve Kay (Thaung Sein, EC70, GBNF)

    Steeve 1

    Education

    • Studied at Hwa Kyone School in Rangoon, Burma.
    • Briefly attended GTI (Government Technical Institute).
    • Matriculated with Distinctions in Maths, Physics and Chemistry.
    • In November 1964, he was admitted as a top Student to RIT (Rangoon Institute of Technology) along with Zaw Min, Tommy Shwe (GBNF), Peter Pe (GBNF) and Cho Aye (GBNF).
    • Graduated in 1970 with BE (Bachelor of Engineering) with specialization in EC (Electrical Communications).
    • Moved to California, USA.
    • MSEE (Master of Science in Electrical Engineering) from Stanford University
    • MBA (Master in Business Administration) from Pepperdine University
    Steeve 2

    Experience

    • Worked in the Electronics Industry as IC (Integrated Circuit) Designer.
    • Per request from his younger sister Dr. Kay, he co-founded QTC and served as CEO (Chief Executive Officer). See Souvenir book for the Silver Jubilee of QTC.
    • QTC was acquired for a sizable sum. Became a Serial Entrepreneur & Philanthropist. Founded Eleok, Teehub & Kay Family Foundation.
    • Traveled to the Holy Places of Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism & Islam to study Comparative Religion.
    • Visited prominent historic sites. Tried to trace his roots dating back ten or more generations.

    Philanthropist

    • Founded CABA (Charitable Alliance of Burmese Associations). A notable CABA donation was to Disaster Relief Fund help the victims of Cyclone Nargis in Burma. Details can be found in the reports prepared by Benny Tan (M70) who served as a CABA administrator.
    • Established KFF (Kay Family Foundation) to support a wide range of support. KFF donated to Universities (Stanford, Harvard, UC Irvine …), Research Institutes and Libraries. KFF sponsored the visit of Myanmar Education Delegation to California. KFF provided a Matching Donation of $30000 for the 2015 RIT Alumni Reunion in Los Angeles.
    • He never forgot his roots. He wanted to show his appreciation for his schools, mentors, classmates and schoolmates.
    • KFF sponsored the publication of the “Centennial of Hwa Kyone School” and its Sequel.
    • He has donated $200000+ (via CABA and KFF) to RIT-related activities.
    • In October 2000, he donated $3000 to the First RIT Grand Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe and became the first Golden Sponsor. He also sponsored the subsequent SPZPs (Saya Pu Zaw Pwes) at Singapore in December 2002, April 2007 and December 2010; at Yangon in December 2004, December 2012 and 2016.
    • In 2004, he set up the “Steeve and Helen Kay Health Care Fund for RIT Sayas” with a pledge of $50000.

    Final Years

    • In 2018, he was diagnosed with a medical problem. His doctors recommended to work from home and avoid long travels.
    • He requested Benny and me to organize a special Reunion and Acariya Pu Zaw Pwe on his behalf. For details, see my post about that event.
    • Started writing books to share his expertise and memories.
    • Succumbed to Jara, Byadi & Marana.

    Memories

    Steeve 3
    Steeve 5
    Steeve 6
  • RIT — Health Care Funds

    RIT — Health Care Funds

    by Hla Min

    Updated : September 2026

    Steeve and Helen Kay Health Care Fund

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    Steeve Kay
    • Steeve Kay (U Thaung Sein, EC70) did not forget his roots.
    • He is a Multiple Golden Sponsor for SPZPs starting with SPZP-2000.
    • He donated US$50,0000 and established the “Steeve and Helen Kay Health Care Fund for RIT Sayas” to provide services for Sayas such as
      Funeral expenses, Hospital expenses and Medical check up.
    • The implementation was supported by a committee of sayas (e.g U Tun Shwe) and selected alumni (e.g U Win Khaing).
    • The balance of the fund was transferred to Swel Daw Yeik Foundation.
    • He set up Charitable Alliance of Burmese Americans (CABA). CABA helped rebuild the houses ravaged by Cyclone Nargis.
    • He also established the Kay Family Foundation (KFF). KFF hosted a Myanmar Education Delegation to visit prestigious Universities and Research Institutions in California. KFF provided a Matching Fund of $30000 for the RIT Alumni Reunion in Los Angeles in 2015. The Main event was held at Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel.

    U Khin Maung Tun Health Care Fund

    U Khin Maung Tun (Right)
    • U Khin Maung Tun (T78) & family established a Health Care Fund to provide Vision Care for eligible sayas.
    • The balance of the fund was transferred to Swel Daw Yeik Foundation.

    Swel Daw Yeik Foundation

    Pon Tu of Saya U Moe Aung
    • The idea of SDYF was discussed before, during and after SPZP-2012. Saya U Moe Aung (Tekkatho Moe War) proposed the idea. He is a Patron of SDYF.
    • U Khin Maung Tun donated K1500 Lakhs (or more) to SDYF and related causes. He served as President and hosted monthly lunch meetings.
    • SDYF has several objectives.
      They include helping engineering sayas and students — past, present and future, establishing “Saya Geha”, provide financial assistance for SPZPs, Shwe YaDu Celebrations and sellected Projects (e.g. YTU Library Modernization Project).
    • SDYF has provided financial support for eligible sayas. It had enhanced the programs that were implemented by the “Steeve and Helen Kay Health Care Fund” and “U Khin Maung Tun’s family Health Care Fund”.
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    Eligibility rules and financial support

    • The rules may change over time (based on resources).
    • Eligible sayas who are hospitalized are provided K4 lakhs.
    • Eligible sayas who need to visit medical clinics frequently are considered on a case-by-case basis for financial assistance.
    • Eligible sayas are provided Annual Medical Checkup. The facilitators (e.g May Nge and group) provide transportation and lunch.
    • Eligible sayas are provided Vision Checkup and followup treatment (e.g. cataract operation).
    • Sayas who require medical treatment and long term care are considered on a case-by-case basis for financial assistance. Saya U Kyaw Sein (M65, GBNF) and Saya U Ohn Maung (ChE68, GBNF) were voted at the SDYF meetings for annual financial assistance.

    Sample Recipient

    • Saya U Ohn Maung (ChE68) required medical treatment and long term care.
    • Swel Daw Yeik Foundation (SDYF) decided in a meeting to provide annual financial assistance of K4 Lakhs to Saya.
    • The facilitators include U Wynn Htain Oo (M72), Saya U Soe Myint (Min83) and U Khin Maung Htwe (who also donated K20,000).
    • The total K420,000 was given to Sayagadaw Daw Wai Mon Ohn Maung on 16th October, 2018.
    U Ohn Maung 1
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    U Ohn Maung 2
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    U Ohn Maung 3

    Other Health Care Funds

    This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Daw-Myint-Myint-1.jpg
    U Aung Min, Daw Myint Myint …
    • 69er HCF (Maintained by U Aung Min and team)
      Donors : Daw Myint Myint, Ivan Lee, U Sein Myint …
    • EE69er HCF (Maintained by U Shwe and team)
      Donors : U Sein Myint …
    • Combined 1st BE Intake of 64 and 65 HCF
      Donors : Steeve Kay …
    • M72 HCF (Organizers : U Wynn Htain Oo …)
    • 83 Intake HCF (Organizers : Nan Khin Nwe …)
  • Gatherings — 2015 Los Angeles Reunion

    Gatherings — 2015 Los Angeles Reunion

    by Hla Min

    Updated : September 2026

    Event

    Reunion
    • RIT Alumni Reunion was held in Los Angeles in 2015.

    Organizers

    • Saya Dr. Tin Win : Past President, BASES; Initiator of the Reunion
    Saya Dr. Tin Win
    • Saya U Tin Htut : Founder & Past President, BASES; Financial Controller
    U Tin Htut
    • U Khin Maung Lay (Henry) : Past President, BASES; Emcee; Entertainment
    U KML (2nd from R), U TTZ (3rd from R)
    • U Thura Thant Zin : Past President, BASES; Optional event was Brunch Gathering at the Campus of his Company.
    Entertainers & TTZ
    • Several alumni and BASES EC members served as Volunteers.

    Sponsor

    Steeve (KFF Founder)
    • Kay Family Foundation (established by Steeve Kay / Thaung Sein EC70) provided a Matching Fund of $30000

    Main Event

    Dr. Aung Gyi
    • Reunion Dinner and Entertainment at Knott’s Berry Farm
    • Speech by Sayas & Organizers
    • Steeve sang “Shwe Mi”
    Attendees 1
    Attendees 2
    Couple

    Posts

    • Alumni
    • BASES
    • Foundations
    • Gatherings
    • NorCal RITAA
  • RIT — Class of 70

    RIT — Class of 70

    by Hla Min

    Updated : September 2026

    • 450+ Matriculates were admitted to 1st BE in November 1964 based on ILA (Intelligence Level Aggregate).
    • Most graduated in 1970. Some (e.g Tommy Shwe) left before graduation. Peter Pe, who represented RIT in Swimming and Water Polo, passed away in 6th BE.

    Steeve Kay (Thaung Sein, EC70, GBNF)

    Steeve hosted a Reunion & PZP for the Combined 1st BE Intake of 64 and 65
    • Admitted as Roll No. (8) to 1st BE in Nov 1964.
    • Graduated with EC in 1970
    • Moved to USA. An immigration officer spelled his name as Steeve instead of Steve. He kept the name with the variant unconventional spelling.
    • Masters from Stanford University
    • Designer of Power IC Chip
    • Per his younger sister’s request, co-founded QTC
    • MBA from Pepperdine University
    • QTC was bought by an investment company. Steeve became a multi-millionaire
    • Established Kay Family Foundation. Steeve became an outstanding philanthropist.
    • He never forgot his roots, his alma mater, his mentors and his friends.
    • A short biography, which summarized three dreams, was published by Combined 1st BE Intake of 64 and 65, and also in “RIT Alumni International Newsletter”.
    • Details can be found in the commemorative issue celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the founding of QTC.

    Three Dreams of Steeve Kay

    Steeve Kay
    First Dream of Steeve Kay
    Second and Third Dreams of Steeve Kay

    Team Builder

    40th Anniversary of arrival in the USA

    In 2011, Steeve hosted a gathering to celebrate the 40th anniversary of his arrival in the US. The gathering was coordinated by his daughter Elanor. She arranged a visit to Teehub (which provides incubation for aspiring innovators).

    Attendees include :

    • Chris Lee, Dr. (EE59) & spouse
    • Sam Chin (ChE62) & spouse
    • Henry Khoo (EC67)
    • Hla Min (EC69) & spouse
    • Benny Tan (M70) & spouse
    • Zaw Min Nawaday (EP70) & spouse
    • Htin Aung (Richard, M70)
    • Zaw Htun, Dr. (BDS) & spouse

    Benny, Zaw Min & Richard were Steeve’s classmates from RIT.

    Henry picked up Steeve on his arrival in San Francisco, California, USA.

    Saya Chris Lee, Sam Chin and Dr. Zaw Htun were active in the Burmese American organizations in Southern California.

    QTC

    His younger sister Dr. Lay Kay had patents related to the medical and legal processes to handle disability claims. She requested Steeve to co-found QTC and serve as CEO.

    Two decades later, QTC was bought by a group of investors making the two siblings multi-millionaires.

    They did not forget their roots. Steeve set up the Kay Family Foundation. His sister set up the B K Kee Foundation in memory of her mother. Their foundations have provided support for education, medical research, areas inflicted by disasters (e.g. Cyclone Nargis) and much more.

    Aspirations & Actions

    Steeve took time to trace his roots. He also joined expeditions to visit the holy sites of Four Religions.

    He is a Trustee and/or Board Member of several US universities.

    He is a Multiple Golden Sponsor for the SPZPs. He set up the “Steeve and Helen Kay Health Care Fund for RIT Sayas and Sayamas”. He hosted a delegation from the Ministry of Science and Technology to visit selected universities and research institutions in California.

    There were some proposals that did not materialize. He offered to set up a Computing Laboratory and promote Leapfrogging Technology for engineering sayas and students in Myanmar. He offered to provide air fare and expenses for Sayagyis willing to share their experience in Myanmar. He requested some support from the Myanmar side (e.g. taking care of the security and maintenance of the Laboratory and providing accommodation for the visiting Sayagyis), but due to the bureaucracy of the then authorities, the proposals were not materialized.

    When his health started to decline, he could not take long trips or wait too long for responses to his proposals. He requested the balance of his Health Care Fund to be transferred to Swel Daw Yeik Foundation.

    He delegated his children to run KFF and his enterprise. He still has desires to help his beloved home land. “The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

    2015 Alumni Reunion in Los Angeles, USA

    Kay Family Foundation provided $30000 for the Alumni Reunion. Steeve sang Shwe Mi during his presentation.

    LA 2015

    Sponsorships

    He provided the seed money for holding the First RIT Grand Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe (SPZP-2000) in San Francisco. California, USA in October 2000.

    He became a Multiple Golden Sponsor of SPZPs.

    He established the “Steeve and Helen Kay Health Care Fund for RIT Sayas and Sayamas”. The balance fund has recently been handed over to Swel Daw Yeik Foundation.

    He and Kay Family Foundation donated US $200,000+ for RIT-related causes.

    He hosted several gatherings in the USA and Yangon.

    U Zaw Min Nawaday (EP70)

    Zaw Min entered 1st BE as Roll Number One (Top student). He was selected Luyechun for Inlay Khaung Daing Camp in the Summer of 1965.

    In the USA, he studied Electronics and also changed his name to Zaw Min Nawaday.

    He was the main author of the article covering the six years at RIT. U Ohn Khine was the co-author.

    The article was first posted in the Google Group for “Combined 1st BE Intake of 64 and 65”. I edited the article.

    The revised versions have been published in (a) the Golden Jubilee Magazine for the combined group (b) RIT Updates and (c) hlamin.com website

    Benny Tan (Tan Eu Beng, M70)

    Benny beside Steeve’s picture
    • Founding member of RIT Alumni International
    • Hosted meetings of the San Francisco Bay Area Alumni including the one that led to the formation of RIT Alumni International
    • Wore multiple hats for SPZP-2000 — Golden Sponsor; Co-chair of the Working Committee; Designer of SPZP Banner, commemorative Mug, Clock & T-shirt
    • Multiple Golden Sponsor for SPZPz and for his class gatherings.
    • Wrote “Traveling through the Time Machine”.

    U Ohn Khine (M70)

    U Ohn Khine
    • Volunteer for SDYF, SPZP-2012, Shwe YaDu 2014, SPZP-2016, & HMEE Projects
    • Co-authored “RIT Days (1964 – 70)”.
    • Translated Section One of HMEE-2012 into English.
    • Summarized Section Two of HMEE-2012.
    • We compiled the CD Supplement for HMEE book
    • He offered me rides during my visits to Yangon (especially to attend meetings for SPZP-2012, SPZP-2016 and HMEE-2012).

    M70 Class Photo†

    M70
    • U Aung Khin (Head of the Mechanical Engineering Department) moved to Canada
    • U Win Kyaing, U Tin Hlaing (M59) & U Aung Hla Tun are GBNF
    • U Phone Myint is enjoying post-retirement by visiting his children overseas.
    • U Tin Htut (M60, Past Captain and Gold of RUBC) taught Industrial Management
    • Cho Aye is now GBNF
    • Benny is enjoying retirement with his grand children

    1st BE Intake in 1964

    Most members of the group graduated in 1970. Some left RIT before graduation.

    A few took Sabbatical and graduated a year or two later.

    U Ohn Khine (M70) reports the Gone But Not Forgotten (GBNF) list periodically.

    Each entry contains

    • Name
    • Roll Number in 1st BE
    • Major/Discipline
    • Date of demise (if known)
    • Other name (e.g. nickname)

    As of June 30, 2023, there were 125 entries in the GBNF list.

    • Cho Aye3 Mech 7/8/18
    • Peter Pe 4 Mech
    • Victor Jones 41 Civil
    • Ne Win 45 Textile
    • Tin Ohn 49 Mech
    • Naing Win 54 Mech
    • Mya Daung 58 Mech(Agri)
    • Lay Myint 60 Civil
    • Khin Maung Pun 66 Petro ?/10/16
    • Myo Thaw 68 5/15
    • Aung Kyan 71 Mech (Auto)
    • Thet Win 75 Mech
    • Hla Min 82 Elec Pauk Si
    • Mg Mg Myint 93 Mech Japu Sein
    • Soe Tint 94 Civil Nevil Kyi Mg
    • Mg Mg Than 97 Mech 8/7/18
    • Le Le Win 100 Mech Lilian Tha Mya
    • Nan Lwin 102 Elec
    • Myat Khine 104 Mech Tha Aye
    • Han Kyu Pe 110 Archi
    • Than Tun 114 Mech (Agri) Ivan Win
    • Aung Win 120 Chemical
    • Aye Thin 122 Chemical
    • Chit Khin 124 Archi 23/6/15
    • Than Sein 130 Mech
    • Aung Kyi 135 Mech
    • Khin Mg Saan 139 Civil
    • Ko Ko Tin 141 Mech Winston Hla Mg
    • Saw Pae Pae 143 Met
    • Win Maw (George Hock) 146
    • Ma Yin Shwe Tun 150 Textile
    • Myat Myat Moe 154 Archi
    • Ma Htay Htay Win 158 Chemical Marlene Mg Mg
    • Than Myint 168 23/1/13
    • Myint Thein 172 Mech
    • Phone Thwin 177 Mining
    • Than Nyunt Win 181 Civil
    • Khin Mg Kyu 183 Mech
    • Win Thein 185 Elec
    • Ma Khin Mya Oo 188 Met
    • Kyaw Naing 191 Elec Sin Gwan
    • Mg Mg Yu 194 Mech (Agri)
    • Tin Aye 195 Mech (Agri)
    • Htike Nyan 198 Elec 26/10/15
    • Aung Khin 203 Mech
    • Kyi May Nwae 206 Met
    • Tin Win 209 Chemical
    • Myat Swe (Myint Swe) 215 Electrical 22/3/15
    • Kyaw Win Mhan 234 Arch
    • Ma Yaw Ze 243 Chemical
    • Hla Shwe 247 Mech Lar Gyi
    • Min Thant 254 Elec Maurice Bo Ni
    • Tin Win 256 Mevh Arthur
    • Aung Htay 277 Civil
    • Michael Shein Myint 280 Chemical
    • Mar Mar 292 Civil
    • Thein Htun 304 Mech 29/8/18
    • Mg Mg Oo 312 PP
    • Myo Tint 313 PP Stanley Hla
    • Mg Mg Swe 314 Mech ?/1/18
    • Min Swe 318 Mech
    • Ye Myint Aung 323 Mech
    • Toe Nyunt 326 Elec
    • Tin Ko 330 Met
    • Aung Law Ha 342 Mn 30/1/16
    • Ma Tin Tin 348 Mech (Agri)
    • Kyaw Swe Thet 354 Mech 2017
    • Kan Myint 371 Mech
    • Aye Than 385 Elec 25/4/16
    • Khin Soe 388
    • Khin Than Win 389 Textile 3/9/18
    • Maung Maung 398 Textile 31/8/14
    • John Krasu 402 Mar 2016
    • Shein Kee Gae 407 Elec
    • Ohn Kywe 408 Elec
    • Kan Win 409 Mech
    • Win Aung 413
    • Onward Taw 419
    • Sein Sein 418 Textile 19/2/15
    • Tin Oo 428 Archi
    • Nay Daung 435 Civil
    • Oo Myint 445 Mining
    • Khin Mg Shwe 446 Kenneth
    • Thein Han 463 Elec 18/5/12
    • Hla Kyaing 467 Mining
    • Tin Win 475
    • Zaw Nyein 482 Tex 10/2/14
    • Myo Nyunt Saw 485 Elec
    • Mya Thaung 487 Mining Ye Baw Pae Hlaw
    • Sai Maung Lin 73 Mech
    • Maung Myint 332 Tex
    • Htay Lwin 367
    • Stanley Lim 51
    • Aye Win Kyaw 169 Civil
    • Zin Maung Oo 328 Civil
    • Khin Nyo 352
  • U Ba Toke & U Ba Than ဦးဘတုတ် နှင့် ဦးဘသန်း

    U Ba Toke & U Ba Than ဦးဘတုတ် နှင့် ဦးဘသန်း

    by Hla Min

    Updated : September 2026

    Garawa ဂါရဝ

    • U Ba Than usually visits and pay homage to his saya U Ba Toke at least once every year.
    • Both are our Sayagyis. Sadly, both have passed away.

    January 2017

    • Pansy (Thynn Thynn, ChE 74) asked her daughter & son-in-law to pick up Saya U Ba Than (86 years), Saya U Tin Htut (79 years) and me to see her father Sayagyi U Ba Toke (96 years).
    • Sayagyi has some problems with mobility & vision, but his mind remains crisp & clear.
    • He was born on Dec 26, 1920. Rangoon University opened on Dec 1, 1929. They are “Phwa Bet Taws”.
    • Sayagyi deferred celebrating his birthday so that three of his grandchildren abroad could come back & join the celebration.
    • Sayagyi is pre-deceased by his beloved spouse, daughter (Kitty) and son (Soe Win).
    • He has six remaining children : Betty, Ye Myint, Nellie, Pansy, Tammy & Debbie
    • Pansy has offered transportation (within Rangoon) to Sayas who want to visit her father

    Book

    Book
    • A detailed account of Sayagyi has been covered by Saya Dr. Khin Maung Swe (“Maung Thin Char”).
    • I received an autographed copy during a previous visit. The book may need a reprint.

    Memories

    SPZP-2000

    • Ko Maung Maung Than (M79, Texas) donated a roundtrip ticket to invite a Saya from Myanmar to attend SPZP-2000.
    • Debbie (Saya’s youngest daughter) relayed Saya’s wish to attend SPZP-2000.
    • Ko Zaw Min Nawaday (EP70) offered accommodation for Saya, Ko Ye Myint & spouse.
    • Several sayas and alumni donated towards Saya’s expenses for the trip. Some offered to show Saya around the SF Bay Area.
    SPZP-2000
    SF Bay Area

    SPZP-2007

    • Saya was asked about Longevity.
    • Saya recounted his experience in USSR. The host said, “Do not worry about the noise upstairs. It’s my 100+ years young uncle quarreling with his fourth wife. They will make peace soon”.

    SPZP-2012 & 2016

    • Saya needed assistance to attend the SPZPs.
    • Even some younger Sayas needed wheelchair.

    RU Centennial

    • Due to pandemic, most events were broadcast or held online.
    • Saya passed away on Dec 2, 2020 — the day after the RU Centennial.

    GBNF

    • Sayagyi U Ba Toke passed away a few days short of his Centennial birthday
    U Ba Toke
    • U Ba Than passed away after his 94th birthday
    U Ba Than
    • Dr. Khin Maung Swe passed away in his 80s
    Dr. Khin Maung Swe
  • Visits — 2015

    by Hla Min

    Updated : September 2026

    Invitation

    Ivan Lee (M69) invited several 69ers to get together at his house in New Jersey around June of 2015. U Aung Myint and U Sein Tin could not make it to the 2015 mini-reunion.

    Fred Thetgyi (M69)

    • Lives in Philadelphia
    • Joined the 2015 mini-reunion
    • Drove most of the 1800+ mile trip in Ivan’s Mercedes
    • Except when his batteries went out, he took pictures at the mini-reunion and the trip.
    • He would appear only in a fraction of the photos, when someone else (Ivan, a waiter, or a stranger) took the photo.
    Phil 1
    Phil 2
    Phil 3
    Phil 4
    Phil 5
    Phil 6
    Phil 9

    New Jersey

    • Main Host : Ivan
    • Other hosts : Saya U Soe Paing & Daw Saw Yu Tint
    • Ivan took us on a short trip to New York
    • Ivan showed us around New Jersey
    • For several years, Ivan had hosted the RIT-UCC Gathering with Saya Dr. Aung Gyi and Saya U Soe Paing as Guests of Honor.
    • Photo shows two Sayas and six 69ers — Fred, TAG, HM, Alice, Toung / Tom and Ivan
    New Jersey

    Niagara Falls

    • On the way to Canada
    • Took photos from the US side & the Canada side
    Niagara Fall

    Windsor, Canada

    • Host : Sayagyi U Aung Khin
    • Saya patiently waited for our arrival.
    • Saya let me and my spouse spend the night in his Guest room. Ivan and Fred stayed at a motel.
    • Saya prepared Mohinga and Ah Kyaw for breakfast.
    • He gave us mementos.
    U Aung Khin
    Saya U Aung Khin
    Memento

    Toronto

    • Brief sight seeing
    • Saya Des Rodgers had earlier invited to drop by his house, but our schedule did not have slack time.

    Napean, Canada

    • Host: Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi & Daw Emma
    • Saya drove us around Toronto
    • We spent two nights at Saya’s house.
    Dr. Aung Gyi
    • Took a quick trip to Thousand Islands. Ma Ma Emma bought a gift for my Myee
    Thousand Islands

    Shrewberry, Massachussetts

    • Hosts : Dr. Tun Aung Gyaw (EC69) & Daw Khin Maw Maw
    • Since they were renovating their home, U TAG hosted us at a hotel.
    • Visit MIT & Harvard University
    U TAG
    Dinner

    Trumbull, Connecticut

    • Hosts : U Toung (Tom, EC69) and Daw Khin Myint
    • Visit Yale University
    • Visit Pizza place frequented by the young Bill Clinton
    Ko Toung
    Place frequented by young Bill Clinton

    Philadelphia

    • Hosts : Fred Thetgyi (M69) & Eunice
    • Dropped by to see Fred’s elder sister
    • Visit Pake Forge and Liberty Bell;
    • Visit my last remaining uncle U Thein Han in Maryland
    MD 1
    MD 2
    MD 3
    MD 4

  • Alumni — Admirable Couple

    Alumni — Admirable Couple

    by Hla Min

    Updated : September 2026

    Donors

    Daw Myint Myint
    • 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.

    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 1
    Myint 2
    Myint 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
    69er BFG