What makes us proud alumni?
The Hindu
What makes us proud alumni?
Two recent incidents prompted me to think of the reasons why some individuals love their alma mater and have profound connections with them while others harbour disdain towards the institutions they attended and wish to disassociate from them.
Nandan Nilekani, co-founder of Infosys, donated ₹315 crore to his alma mater, IIT Bombay, recently. “IIT-Bombay has been a cornerstone in my life, shaping my formative years and laying the foundation for my journey. As I celebrate 50 years of my association with this esteemed Institution, I am grateful to give forward and contribute to its future. This donation is more than just a financial contribution; it is a tribute to the place that has given me so much and a commitment to the students who will shape our world tomorrow,” he said.
I have come across numerous accounts of alumni from various educational institutions who regularly gather, reminiscing about their teachers and sharing stories of how their alma mater has contributed to their accomplishments. These individuals extend their support in numerous ways, such as mentoring current students, serving as guest speakers, assisting students in securing internships or jobs, establishing scholarship funds, and raising funds for projects and activities.
Amid these narratives are also stories of individuals who lack a sense of pride in being associated with certain institutions and harbour such deep resentment that they express negative sentiments about their college/school and even discourage prospective students from enrolling. Consequently, they prefer not to engage with their alma mater or participate in any alumni activities.
A couple of months ago, a young boy’s parents approached a recent graduate to check if they could admit their son to the same college. “If you want your son to be happy and to have a sense of pride in being a student of a college, then the one where I studied is not the right place,” the girl said. “Most of my classmates were not happy; my seniors too feel the same. If you want to check what they say about the college, I can send you a link. Read the comments of alumni about the college and decide for yourself.”
Why are some people not happy with or proud of their alma mater? Why do they regret the time they spent in the institution? There could be several reasons why some cannot say that their alma mater “shaped their formative years” or that time they spent there was fruitful and enjoyable.
In many colleges, students do not have academic freedom. Meaningless rules and regulations kill their creativity and critical thinking. Many private educational institutions that are controlled by edupreneurs do not have good educationists or educators who can show intellectual courage. The term “educationists” is often inaccurately used to describe “edupreneurs”. It is important to distinguish between the two as they have distinct objectives. Educationists are dedicated to upholding noble values and enhancing the quality of education. Edupreneurs, on the other hand, are fuelled by a desire to commercialise education and generate financial gains.
Vaccination policies must prioritize saving human lives over individual choice amid rising vaccine skepticism, asserts scientist Dr. Virander Singh Chauhan.
Seven Indian fishermen from Rameswaram arrested by Sri Lankan Navy, sparking protests and calls for government intervention.
Kerala cyber police file a case against X for an AI video allegedly defaming PM Modi and the Election Commission.
iKure and Izawa Co. partner to combat avoidable blindness by integrating innovative eye care technology into rural healthcare networks.
Thousand Lights MLA from the DMK N. Ezhilan, in an interview to The Hindu, observes that any popular personality entering politics will attract the limelight. But only a structured party machinery combined with popularity can ensure success. In this interview, he speaks about his tenure as first-time MLA from Thousand Lights Assembly constituency in Chennai, Vijay’s political entry shaping the 2026 elections, redressal of key grievances and more.
Abhishek Banerjee challenges BJP's Suvendu Adhikari in Nandigram, pledging community health initiatives if Trinamool Congress wins.
Rising LPG shortages in Karnataka boost firewood demand, reviving an informal market as households and hotels seek alternatives.
Against the backdrop of intense poll activity, a 400-metre stretch of an arterial road in the outskirts of Chennai (technically in Madurapakkam panchayat under Tambaram assembly constituency) presents a salute to the idea of res publica, which underpins India’s system of governance, where citizens have a say, at least before a government is securely ensconced in the seat of power. A Republic Day initiative shines bright every night
Fadnavis claims zero FIR in Ajit Pawar crash is a defamation attempt by Karnataka against Maharashtra's investigation efforts.
Set to unfold as a one-day pop-up on April 5, the Easter Sadya brings together both vegetarian and non-vegetarian menus, offering a peek into the food traditions of the Syrian Christian (Nasrani) community. While the traditional Sadya is often associated with dishes such as sambar, avial, and rice, this version expands to include community-specific festive dishes.
BJP nominates mother of R.G. Kar victim Abhaya to contest from Panihati in West Bengal Assembly elections.
Veteran Malayalam actor-director E.A. Rajendran passes away at 71, leaving behind a rich legacy in the film industry.
Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat has rolled out digital mode of water bill generation and collection in 23 gram panchayats on a pilot basis for the first time in Karnataka. This is set to be extended to the remaining 200 panchayats shortly, according to the Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Narwade Vinayak Karbhari.