22 April
No one would disagree that Yangon University has played a key role in our colonial history, the independence era, the period of democratic uprising, and our modern history.
Most of the great thinkers, inspiring leaders, and political figures of Myanmar have passed through the halls of Yangon University since its establishment in 1920. So much so, that people began to revere the institution and likened its role to that of a nurturing mother.
The university’s alumni include national leader U Aung San, Myanmar’s first post-independence Prime Minister U Nu, and other historical leaders such as Ko Hla Pe (Bo Lin Kyar), Thakin Thein Pe, Authoritarian Hla Shwe, Thakin Ba Hein, Bo Aung Kyaw, U Ba Swe, and U Kyaw Nyein.
People recognized as the ‘faces of Myanmar’ such as Sayargyi U Pe Maung Tin, Sayargyi U Khin Zaw (Kay), Sayar Zaw Gyi, Sayar Min Thu Wun, and Sayar U Myo Min also made the university their home. Other notable alumni of the varsity include U Tin Htut, Dr. Htin Aung, modern historian Dr. Than Tun, Theikpan Maung Wa, Maung Htin, Ludu Daw Amar, Moe Moe Inya, and countless literary figures.
The infrastructure and campus of Yangon University is also a historical and cultural heritage. Who can forget its iconic Convocation Hall, the main Adipati Road, or the library? Not to mention the on-campus residences, such as the Bago Hall, Thiri Hall, Marlar Hall, Inya Hall, Amara Hall, Mandalay Hall, and Dagon Hall, which have housed many of the country’s national figures and people of note.
The Ta Ka Ta, or the Yangon University Students’ Union, also took shape in this historic institution, and went on to lead nationwide protests such as the anti-colonial movement, the revolt against authoritarians, strikes in 1974, ’75, ’76 for U Thant, and the 8888 uprising.
The university is filled with numerous milestones and memories, and the fact that it still stands in all its grandeur indicates its contribution to our nation’s integrity, and its place as a significant cultural heritage.
The campus is filled with lush trees that provide ample shade and greenery. Students and teachers will always remember the beautiful fruit-bearing plants and ancient trees that dot the grounds of the university.
Having seen Myanmar’s first student rebellion against the unfair university law, Yangon University will be celebrating its centenary next year.
We must preserve our history to establish a strong future. As we welcome the upcoming hundredth anniversary of this prestigious establishment, we would like to urge everyone to consider what needs to be preserved and what must be given higher priority for sustainability.
GNLM
