Indore (Madhya Pradesh): It was a walk down memory lane for the pioneering batch of computer science graduates from Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya (DAVV) as alumni from across the globe gathered in the university to celebrate 35 years of camaraderie and shared success. The emotional reunion marked a significant milestone for the university’s School of Computer Science, which played a pivotal role in shaping the computer era in Central India. School of Computer Science was established in 1986 under the visionary leadership of Prof Mukesh Kumar Sahu and the then vice-chancellor Prof SM Dasgupta.
The three-year MCA course, sponsored by the Department of Electronics, and the two-year MSc Computer Science programme launched in collaboration with DRDO in 1987, marked the beginning of the computer revolution in Indore. In 1989, the first batch of these programmes graduated, stepping into the world armed with cutting-edge knowledge. Decades later, the same group returned to reminisce about their formative years and honour the institution and mentors that shaped their paths.
Honouring the pioneers
The programme began with a heartfelt tribute to the late Dasgupta and other stalwarts like Mukesh Sahu, AK Ramani and Niranjan Srivastava, among others. The then teachers, including Subhash Chitale, Vrinda Tokekar, and Sanjay Tanwani, were felicitated for their contributions, receiving shawls and coconuts as tokens of respect. Tanwani, now a faculty member, reminisced about the institution’s journey, while vice chancellor Prof Rakesh Singhai likened the reunion to returning home and emphasised the collective responsibility of alumni in the university’s growth.
Recognising global achievements
Alumni who have left indelible marks across industries and countries were honoured with mementoes. These included software architect Vishwajeet Aklecha, Cisco’s director Anamika Dev, DRDO’s director general Upendra Kumar Singh and IT head Manu Shukla along with many others excelling in fields like academia, defence, business automation and public service. In an inspiring session, prominent alumni shared their professional journeys offering guidance and encouragement to current students. They also addressed queries about navigating future challenges leaving the audience enriched and motivated.
Reliving the Past
One of the highlights of the event was a recreated classroom session where teachers took attendance and reminisced about memorable incidents. The playful recollections of student mischief and cherished lessons brought laughter and tears, encapsulating the spirit of the gathering. A campus tour added to the nostalgia as alumni revisited their favourite spots and shared anecdotes. “Walking through these corridors is like stepping back in time,” said Rajkumar Jain, a member of the first batch. “We are leaving with a heavy heart but also with memories we’ll cherish forever.” The event concluded with gratitude expressed by Ashok Holani, who was instrumental in the reunion, who thanked everyone for making the celebration a success.
Distinguished alumni to get awards
Vice chancellor Prof Rakesh Singhai announced that the university would give away awards in different categories to distinguished alumni who have made a mark in categories to be decided soon. “We are finalising the categories and information about the same will be uploaded on the university website soon,” he said calling upon alumni to apply for the awards. He signalled that the university would start giving the annual awards from the year 2025.
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