ascent

Volume 1 Issue 2 August - October 2012l l

Prof. K.A. JaleelHomage to

WISDOM SHARING

4 AN EVENTFUL YEAR 6 45 YEARS OF

EXCELLENCE 17 GURUS HONORED

2 l ASCENT AUGUST - OCTOBER 2012

Chairman

Vice Chairman

Chief Editor

Editor

Members

Design

Photos

Dr. M. Abdul SalamVice Chancellor

Prof. K. RaveendranathPro Vice Chancellor

Dr. P.P. MohamedRegistrar

Dr. Muhammadali N.Reader, Dept. of Journalism

Dr. Janaki SreedharanAssociate Professor, Dept. of English

Dr. K.V. LazarAssociate Professor, Dept. of Zoology

Dr. P. RaveendranAssociate Professor, Dept. of Chemistry

Dr. P. SomanathanAssistant Professor, Dept. of Malayalam

Dr. Burton CleetusAssistant Professor, Dept. of History

Dr. Umer O ThasneemAssistant Professor, Dept. of English

Sri. V. OmprakashPublication Officer

Sri. T.P. Varghese Superintendent, Calicut University Press

Sri. V. Asuthosh

Dept. of Art & Photography

Editorial Board

Volume 1 Issue 2 August - October 2012

P.O. Calicut University, Pin - 673 635 Kerala, India

Tel: 0494 2407104

e-mail: [email protected]

www.universityofcalicut.info

V.R.Krishna Iyer Visits University

People expect progressive steps only from Universities,

not from any other fields like industries. -Justice Iyer

Vice ChancellorCONFERRED WITH COLONEL RANK

An Action-packed

and Thrilling Year 4C.H. Mohammed Koya

University of Calicutthe Architect of 10

Gurus Honored 17

Dr. K.S. ManilalNetherlands honours

Botanical Garden a Marvelous Isle

Keeping Abreast

of the Times

US opens ITS DOORS

TO EMPOWER SC/ST STUDENTS

PROGRAMME

THE ART OFPARENTING

W O R K S H O P O N

Facts on Projects 3

MASCAA conducts Communion 2012

Campus getting green

Out-genderedThe endangered Male

Magnificent Climber

Deccani Souls

The Last Poem

Prof. K.A. Jaleel

CU ties up with INO

Screened

Homage to

Chairman

Vice Chairman

Chief Editor

Editor

Members

Design

Photos

Dr. M. Abdul SalamVice Chancellor

Prof. K. RaveendranathPro Vice Chancellor

Dr. P.P. MohamedRegistrar

Dr. Muhammadali N.Reader, Dept. of Journalism

Dr. Janaki SreedharanAssociate Professor, Dept. of English

Dr. K.V. LazarAssociate Professor, Dept. of Zoology

Dr. P. RaveendranAssociate Professor, Dept. of Chemistry

Dr. P. SomanathanAssistant Professor, Dept. of Malayalam

Dr. Burton CleetusAssistant Professor, Dept. of History

Dr. Umer O ThasneemAssistant Professor, Dept. of English

Sri. V. OmprakashPublication Officer

Sri. T.P. Varghese Superintendent, Calicut University Press

Sri. V. Asuthosh

Dept. of Art & Photography

Editorial Board

Volume 1 Issue 2 August - October 2012

P.O. Calicut University, Pin - 673 635 Kerala, India

Tel: 0494 2407104

e-mail: [email protected]

www.universityofcalicut.info

People expect progressive steps only from Universities,

not from any other fields like industries. -Justice Iyer

Vice ChancellorCONFERRED WITH COLONEL RANK

An Action-packed

and Thrilling Year 4C.H. Mohammed Koya

University of Calicutthe Architect of 10

Gurus Honored 17

Botanical Garden a Marvelous Isle

Keeping Abreast

of the Times

US opens ITS DOORS

PROGRAMME

THE ART OFPARENTING

W O R K S H O P O N

Facts on Projects 3

Campus getting green

Magnificent Climber

Deccani Souls

The Last Poem

Prof. K.A. Jaleel

CU ties up with INO

Screened

Homage to

On August 12, 2012, Vice-Chancellor

Colonel (Prof.) M. Abdul Salam

completed one year in office with an

array of students-friendly and research-

oriented, administrative and academic

reforms to his credit. The most crucial task at

hand during the last year was to get rid of the

backlog of all the sort. The University took

special initiatives to clear the pending files,

applications for degree certificates and

revaluations, and settled 1,500 litigations

related to delayed results. It also conducted

special sports convocation to distribute five

years overdue scholarships.

Total e-governance introduced with a

dedicated network of 800 plus computers in

the administrative and examination wings

and teaching departments under the direct

control of Calicut University Computer

Centre (CUCC) was the most revolutionary

initiative last year. Global online certificate

verification system and launching of

placement portal and School of Distance

Education website are some other innovative

steps on the technological front.

The organizational structure of Examination

Wing (Pareekshabhavan) was monolithic

and not conducive for systematic conduct of

examinations. Therefore, its administration

was decentralized, and put under the control

of seven Joint Controllers of Examinations

fixing specific responsibilities based on

permanent academic and examination

calendar.

To make the University an excellent centre

for research, an exclusive Directorate of

Research, for the first time in its history, was

set up and entrusted with overseeing

An Action-packed

and Thrilling Year

the research projects and admissions. The University

also instituted Directorate of Self-Financing Courses

(DSFC) to maintain quality of self-financing courses

under its direct control.

Quality management of the Institute of Engineering &

Technology (IET), self-finacing engineering colleges run

directly by the University, was ensured by appointing

excellent academics with a handsome pay package.

Focusing on the tribal development, Institute of Tribal

Studies was set up at Chethalayam in Wayanad. The

project costs ̀ 4.5 crores. The integrated post-graduate

programmes for the tribals at the centre will be

commenced soon. Yet another progressive move was to keep discipline and

punctuality on the campus declaring it strike-free in line

with the court order and introducing bio-metric punching

systems for employees' attendance verification. CCTV

cameras were installed in strategic points to heighten

campus security.

An Estate Development Office (EDO) was instituted

under Estate Development Officer to oversee campus

development. The Office took initiatives to keep the

campus green and clean and to facilitate proper solid

waste management. A mango orchard spread over four

hectares with 800 plants of rare mango verities is a

commendable step taken by the EDO. Apart from this,

University expects a grant of Rs 14 crore under Rashtriya

Krishi Vikas Yojana scheme over five-year period.The

State Horticulture Mission has agreed to provide Rs 25

lakh to establish a model nursery on the campus. Rain

Water Harvesting Project of the EDO is expected to

replenish the ground water sources benefiting the

campus and the surrounding villages. For this purpose,

around 5,000 moisture conservation pits along with two

large size (20X20X6 m) water conservation pits were also

arranged on the campus.

Rain Water

Harvesting project

of the EDO is

expected to

replenish the

ground water

sources benefitting

the campus and the

surrounding

villages.

Brigadier Subramaniam, Deputy Director General

in charge of Kerala and Lakshadweep NCC

conferring honorary rank of Colonel

on Vice Chancellor Dr.M. Abdul Salam.

Vice Chancellor Dr. M. Abdul Salam receiving award from

Amity University for academic excellence

Vice Chancellor Dr. M. Abdul Salam and higher officials

of the University along with Olympians

Irfan Kolothum Thodi, Diju V. and Tintu Luka

at the function organised to honour them for their great

achievements the London Olympics 2012

On August 12, 2012, Vice-Chancellor

Colonel (Prof.) M. Abdul Salam

completed one year in office with an

array of students-friendly and research-

oriented, administrative and academic

reforms to his credit. The most crucial task at

hand during the last year was to get rid of the

backlog of all the sort. The University took

special initiatives to clear the pending files,

applications for degree certificates and

revaluations, and settled 1,500 litigations

related to delayed results. It also conducted

special sports convocation to distribute five

years overdue scholarships.

Total e-governance introduced with a

dedicated network of 800 plus computers in

the administrative and examination wings

and teaching departments under the direct

control of Calicut University Computer

Centre (CUCC) was the most revolutionary

initiative last year. Global online certificate

verification system and launching of

placement portal and School of Distance

Education website are some other innovative

steps on the technological front.

The organizational structure of Examination

Wing (Pareekshabhavan) was monolithic

and not conducive for systematic conduct of

examinations. Therefore, its administration

was decentralized, and put under the control

of seven Joint Controllers of Examinations

fixing specific responsibilities based on

permanent academic and examination

calendar.

To make the University an excellent centre

for research, an exclusive Directorate of

Research, for the first time in its history, was

set up and entrusted with overseeing

An Action-packed

and Thrilling Year

the research projects and admissions. The University

also instituted Directorate of Self-Financing Courses

(DSFC) to maintain quality of self-financing courses

under its direct control.

Quality management of the Institute of Engineering &

Technology (IET), self-finacing engineering colleges run

directly by the University, was ensured by appointing

excellent academics with a handsome pay package.

Focusing on the tribal development, Institute of Tribal

Studies was set up at Chethalayam in Wayanad. The

project costs ̀ 4.5 crores. The integrated post-graduate

programmes for the tribals at the centre will be

commenced soon. Yet another progressive move was to keep discipline and

punctuality on the campus declaring it strike-free in line

with the court order and introducing bio-metric punching

systems for employees' attendance verification. CCTV

cameras were installed in strategic points to heighten

campus security.

An Estate Development Office (EDO) was instituted

under Estate Development Officer to oversee campus

development. The Office took initiatives to keep the

campus green and clean and to facilitate proper solid

waste management. A mango orchard spread over four

hectares with 800 plants of rare mango verities is a

commendable step taken by the EDO. Apart from this,

University expects a grant of Rs 14 crore under Rashtriya

Krishi Vikas Yojana scheme over five-year period.The

State Horticulture Mission has agreed to provide Rs 25

lakh to establish a model nursery on the campus. Rain

Water Harvesting Project of the EDO is expected to

replenish the ground water sources benefiting the

campus and the surrounding villages. For this purpose,

around 5,000 moisture conservation pits along with two

large size (20X20X6 m) water conservation pits were also

arranged on the campus.

Rain Water

Harvesting project

of the EDO is

expected to

replenish the

ground water

sources benefitting

the campus and the

surrounding

villages.

Brigadier Subramaniam, Deputy Director General

in charge of Kerala and Lakshadweep NCC

conferring honorary rank of Colonel

on Vice Chancellor Dr.M. Abdul Salam.

Vice Chancellor Dr. M. Abdul Salam receiving award from

Amity University for academic excellence

Vice Chancellor Dr. M. Abdul Salam and higher officials

of the University along with Olympians

Irfan Kolothum Thodi, Diju V. and Tintu Luka

at the function organised to honour them for their great

achievements the London Olympics 2012

Uthniversity of Calicut celebrated its 45 foundation day on July 23 with

the launching of a couple of new projects – placement portal and e

verification system. Former vice-chancellors whose effort had

significant role in the development of the University were honoured at the

function. Calicut University, the second to be set up in Kerala came into being in

1968 with the objective of developing human resources in the northern

districts of the State by extending higher education and promoting research

with particular emphasis on technology ,art and culture.

thDr T.K. Raveendran inaugurating the 45 foundation day of Calicut University

Calicut University,

the second to be set

up in Kerala came

into being in 1968

with the objective of

developing human

resources in the

northern districts of

the State by extending

higher education and

promoting research

with particular

emphasis on

technology,

art and culture.

CUTURNS 45

Former Vice Chancellor and well known historian Dr. T. K.

Raveendran inaugurated the function. 'Universities can

achieve a lot by the joined efforts of the vice chancellor,

syndicate, and campus fraternity. The syndicate should

take the lead to make the university a centre of

excellence, he said.

Vice chancellor Dr. M. Abdul Salam presided over the

function. ''Many projects are on the cards to keep up the

University with the needs of the modern world. Eco

friendly, litter free green campus, smart class rooms,

better hostel facilities, cafeteria, digital library and rest

houses are the upcoming projects. They would be of

immense help to the students, Dr. Abdul Salam said.

Former Vice Chancellor ANP Ummer Kutty launched the

placement portal developed by the university placement

cell to streamline campus placements. The global online

verification system was inaugurated by Dr.KKN Kurup,

former vice chancellor. The system helps verify University

certificates and mark sheets online.

Dr Salam honoured his predecessors draping them with

shawls and presenting mementos. Syndicate member

R.S Panicker ,TV Ibrahim, Adv PM Niyas ,TP Asharafali

and University union vice chairman Ansan C Joy

felicitated the function. Pro- vice Chancellor Prof K

Raveedranath welcomed the gathering and Registrar PP

Mohamed proposed a vote of thanks.

A musical treat by the University Music Club followed.

Santhosh Mithra, artist at Art and Photography

department, did a painting in tune with the music.

- Mujeeb Cheriyampuram (III Sem. MCJ)

6 l ASCENT AUGUST - OCTOBER 2012 7 l ASCENT AUGUST - OCTOBER 2012

Uthniversity of Calicut celebrated its 45 foundation day on July 23 with

the launching of a couple of new projects – placement portal and e

verification system. Former vice-chancellors whose effort had

significant role in the development of the University were honoured at the

function. Calicut University, the second to be set up in Kerala came into being in

1968 with the objective of developing human resources in the northern

districts of the State by extending higher education and promoting research

with particular emphasis on technology ,art and culture.

thDr T.K. Raveendran inaugurating the 45 foundation day of Calicut University

Calicut University,

the second to be set

up in Kerala came

into being in 1968

with the objective of

developing human

resources in the

northern districts of

the State by extending

higher education and

promoting research

with particular

emphasis on

technology,

art and culture.

CUTURNS 45

Former Vice Chancellor and well known historian Dr. T. K.

Raveendran inaugurated the function. 'Universities can

achieve a lot by the joined efforts of the vice chancellor,

syndicate, and campus fraternity. The syndicate should

take the lead to make the university a centre of

excellence, he said.

Vice chancellor Dr. M. Abdul Salam presided over the

function. ''Many projects are on the cards to keep up the

University with the needs of the modern world. Eco

friendly, litter free green campus, smart class rooms,

better hostel facilities, cafeteria, digital library and rest

houses are the upcoming projects. They would be of

immense help to the students, Dr. Abdul Salam said.

Former Vice Chancellor ANP Ummer Kutty launched the

placement portal developed by the university placement

cell to streamline campus placements. The global online

verification system was inaugurated by Dr.KKN Kurup,

former vice chancellor. The system helps verify University

certificates and mark sheets online.

Dr Salam honoured his predecessors draping them with

shawls and presenting mementos. Syndicate member

R.S Panicker ,TV Ibrahim, Adv PM Niyas ,TP Asharafali

and University union vice chairman Ansan C Joy

felicitated the function. Pro- vice Chancellor Prof K

Raveedranath welcomed the gathering and Registrar PP

Mohamed proposed a vote of thanks.

A musical treat by the University Music Club followed.

Santhosh Mithra, artist at Art and Photography

department, did a painting in tune with the music.

- Mujeeb Cheriyampuram (III Sem. MCJ)

Iam very happy to be present here today when for

the first time, the executive body of the new

university's meeting. It would be premature on my

part to venture to address you on an occasion like this.

You are all mostly veteran educationists who have had

almost a life time of experience in looking at the

problems of higher education and university

administration. As you know, I am only a novice in the

line. There is therefore considerable diffidence in me.

However, there is one saving element; I am very

sensitive to your pressing problems and deeply anxious

to solve them or at least help to solve them. Whatever

help the government machinery can give to render the

working of the university more efficient and more

relevant to the current state of affairs, I shall try my best

to make available to you. It is more to reassure you in this

simple and vital matter that I have decided to come here

today.

I have not hesitated to give public expression to my

desire and resolve that Calicut University shall not be just

one more or another university for the state, but it shall

be a new university for the state, Kerala has pioneered in

many fields of education and I do feel that we will be able

to evolve the pattern of a dynamic, creative even

adventurous system of education, that would draw forth

all the natural and material resources of the region and

would evidence the infinite capacity of our human

potential to rise equal to the contemporary challenges.

Institutions of higher education should be viewed as

servants of society, created and maintained to meet the

needs of the people comprising the society. Since needs

change, colleges and universities are expected to

change. If institutions through decisions of their

faculties, board members of administrators refuse to

modify practices to confirm to new conditions, their

existence or multiplication is hardly justifiable.

Only such institutions are alive and open to such timely

changes are viable, the others becoming moribund as

time goes by.

Now let's look closely at conditions prevailing here and

ask a few questions.

1. What is the role of the junior colleges? Should they

all, in due course be up-graded as first grade

colleges? Is it necessary, is it even desirable? Should

they increase in larger and larger numbers, at such

terrific cost to the exchequer? Should they continue

to be attached to, or controlled by university, or shall

it be controlled by an independent board forged out

of the secondary educationist and university men?

What shall be the qualifications for the teachers

there? What about fee levels? I would like you to

examine this question in all seriousness and suggest

an optimum number and their location during the

next plan period.

2. You are aware of the anxiety of all the colleges to start

fresh courses at graduate and post graduate levels.

Of course the managements are willing to put up

physical facilities with or without the quantum of

grants. But the recurring expenditure with deficits

more or less subsidised by government, is mounting

tremendously. Here again a natural policy of

discretionary limitation or selection appears to be

called for. There should be a planned approach to

such expansion of a routine nature. It is not easy for

any single executive head to tackle this problem. The

syndicate, I hope would give its anxious

consideration to this question. It is here that I hope

the university will not be a replica of the older models

but will boldly cry a halt repetitive expansion for

parochial or other reasons and should conserve its

resources for expansion of a more worth- while type.

It is proposed to constitute a development council

with experts from different parts of India to help us

with suggestions in this regard. But, remember their

suggestions are to be made relevant and live for our

situation by the responsible executive body of this

university. I congratulate you for the confidence the

chancellor has placed in you for starting this work of

great importance for the future of education in the

3. How can the university effectively make a salutary

impact on the milieu which ultimately pays for the

services thus set up in their midst. What specific steps

the members of the staff and the senior students can

take to make their knowledge the property of the

common man? The universities are to be the criticism

of the life around them. What practical sustainable

form can this criticism take? How far can the medium

of the press and publicity concerns like the radio and

the cinema and the journals be engaged to co-

operate with the work of the university?

4. During the discussion which Mr. Chacko and I had

with the University Grants Commission, we have

gathered the impression that the University Grants

Commission is certainly willing to consider any

dynamic process of evolution of the education

system. Mr. Chacko has suggested to me that he

would like to send some of our youth into the major

industrial concerns in this region, provide them with

facilities for theoretical instruction there and qualify

them to be graduates emerging from actual life

environments- graduates in technology not coming

out of colleges of technology but out of centres of

technological excellence. May be, it is such men who

will be better equipped to exploit the local resources

than the usual college type of technologist. I do not

want to repeat again and again my hopes on the new

faculties we have proposed for the university. I wish

that you take the challenge that nature places before

you here and evolve ways and means by which the

youth of the land whose prosperity is our aim is

enabled to enjoy a higher standard of living.

5. I shall not take more of your time. I shall conclude

observing that while I attach great importance to

science, technology and research in these lines, I do

not minimise the great values of a cultural evolution.

The faculties of philosophy and oriental studies and

fine arts and extension services must all grow from

any possible role of passivity and speculation to one of

tangible action. Greater understanding of our

sociological and cultural problems, more enlightened

and harmonious acceptance of a fusion of values, an

enviable measure of tolerance and spirit of co-

existence – these must also be the visible contribution

of the new university. We are thinking of building up a

big unit of intellectuals living together as a homestead

or community supra-sectarian in outlook and

behaviour. What shape you will give to it is in your

hands. That task is not simple. The problems are

numerous. Temptations will be too strong. Challenges

from a society in ferment may prove too trying for us

of the older generation. But the satisfaction from

achievement will be high if out of such conditions we

can produce and bequeath to posterity a centre of

excellence which trading upon the best of values in

man will shine forth as a beacon and tell them that out

of sincere work prosperity for the brethren will

emerge. What will be intrinsic worth of any project if it

cannot ultimately transform the life of all our brethren

to one of peace and prosperity?

Thank you for the opportunity you have given me to meet

you all on this momentous occasion. I wish you all

success. I promise once again the most sympathetic

consideration of your problems at the level of

government.

Source: Minutes of the Calicut University Syndicate

meeting 2 November 1968 Appendix II

at the first meeting of Calicut University Syndicate

C H MOHAMMED KOYA

A r c h i v e

C.H. Mohammed Koya at a function at the University

Iam very happy to be present here today when for

the first time, the executive body of the new

university's meeting. It would be premature on my

part to venture to address you on an occasion like this.

You are all mostly veteran educationists who have had

almost a life time of experience in looking at the

problems of higher education and university

administration. As you know, I am only a novice in the

line. There is therefore considerable diffidence in me.

However, there is one saving element; I am very

sensitive to your pressing problems and deeply anxious

to solve them or at least help to solve them. Whatever

help the government machinery can give to render the

working of the university more efficient and more

relevant to the current state of affairs, I shall try my best

to make available to you. It is more to reassure you in this

simple and vital matter that I have decided to come here

today.

I have not hesitated to give public expression to my

desire and resolve that Calicut University shall not be just

one more or another university for the state, but it shall

be a new university for the state, Kerala has pioneered in

many fields of education and I do feel that we will be able

to evolve the pattern of a dynamic, creative even

adventurous system of education, that would draw forth

all the natural and material resources of the region and

would evidence the infinite capacity of our human

potential to rise equal to the contemporary challenges.

Institutions of higher education should be viewed as

servants of society, created and maintained to meet the

needs of the people comprising the society. Since needs

change, colleges and universities are expected to

change. If institutions through decisions of their

faculties, board members of administrators refuse to

modify practices to confirm to new conditions, their

existence or multiplication is hardly justifiable.

Only such institutions are alive and open to such timely

changes are viable, the others becoming moribund as

time goes by.

Now let's look closely at conditions prevailing here and

ask a few questions.

1. What is the role of the junior colleges? Should they

all, in due course be up-graded as first grade

colleges? Is it necessary, is it even desirable? Should

they increase in larger and larger numbers, at such

terrific cost to the exchequer? Should they continue

to be attached to, or controlled by university, or shall

it be controlled by an independent board forged out

of the secondary educationist and university men?

What shall be the qualifications for the teachers

there? What about fee levels? I would like you to

examine this question in all seriousness and suggest

an optimum number and their location during the

next plan period.

2. You are aware of the anxiety of all the colleges to start

fresh courses at graduate and post graduate levels.

Of course the managements are willing to put up

physical facilities with or without the quantum of

grants. But the recurring expenditure with deficits

more or less subsidised by government, is mounting

tremendously. Here again a natural policy of

discretionary limitation or selection appears to be

called for. There should be a planned approach to

such expansion of a routine nature. It is not easy for

any single executive head to tackle this problem. The

syndicate, I hope would give its anxious

consideration to this question. It is here that I hope

the university will not be a replica of the older models

but will boldly cry a halt repetitive expansion for

parochial or other reasons and should conserve its

resources for expansion of a more worth- while type.

It is proposed to constitute a development council

with experts from different parts of India to help us

with suggestions in this regard. But, remember their

suggestions are to be made relevant and live for our

situation by the responsible executive body of this

university. I congratulate you for the confidence the

chancellor has placed in you for starting this work of

great importance for the future of education in the

3. How can the university effectively make a salutary

impact on the milieu which ultimately pays for the

services thus set up in their midst. What specific steps

the members of the staff and the senior students can

take to make their knowledge the property of the

common man? The universities are to be the criticism

of the life around them. What practical sustainable

form can this criticism take? How far can the medium

of the press and publicity concerns like the radio and

the cinema and the journals be engaged to co-

operate with the work of the university?

4. During the discussion which Mr. Chacko and I had

with the University Grants Commission, we have

gathered the impression that the University Grants

Commission is certainly willing to consider any

dynamic process of evolution of the education

system. Mr. Chacko has suggested to me that he

would like to send some of our youth into the major

industrial concerns in this region, provide them with

facilities for theoretical instruction there and qualify

them to be graduates emerging from actual life

environments- graduates in technology not coming

out of colleges of technology but out of centres of

technological excellence. May be, it is such men who

will be better equipped to exploit the local resources

than the usual college type of technologist. I do not

want to repeat again and again my hopes on the new

faculties we have proposed for the university. I wish

that you take the challenge that nature places before

you here and evolve ways and means by which the

youth of the land whose prosperity is our aim is

enabled to enjoy a higher standard of living.

5. I shall not take more of your time. I shall conclude

observing that while I attach great importance to

science, technology and research in these lines, I do

not minimise the great values of a cultural evolution.

The faculties of philosophy and oriental studies and

fine arts and extension services must all grow from

any possible role of passivity and speculation to one of

tangible action. Greater understanding of our

sociological and cultural problems, more enlightened

and harmonious acceptance of a fusion of values, an

enviable measure of tolerance and spirit of co-

existence – these must also be the visible contribution

of the new university. We are thinking of building up a

big unit of intellectuals living together as a homestead

or community supra-sectarian in outlook and

behaviour. What shape you will give to it is in your

hands. That task is not simple. The problems are

numerous. Temptations will be too strong. Challenges

from a society in ferment may prove too trying for us

of the older generation. But the satisfaction from

achievement will be high if out of such conditions we

can produce and bequeath to posterity a centre of

excellence which trading upon the best of values in

man will shine forth as a beacon and tell them that out

of sincere work prosperity for the brethren will

emerge. What will be intrinsic worth of any project if it

cannot ultimately transform the life of all our brethren

to one of peace and prosperity?

Thank you for the opportunity you have given me to meet

you all on this momentous occasion. I wish you all

success. I promise once again the most sympathetic

consideration of your problems at the level of

government.

Source: Minutes of the Calicut University Syndicate

meeting 2 November 1968 Appendix II

at the first meeting of Calicut University Syndicate

C H MOHAMMED KOYA

A r c h i v e

C.H. Mohammed Koya at a function at the University

I am quoting the above from the proceedings of the

Kerala Legislative Assembly, the words uttered by

the then education minister Mr. C.H.Mohammed

Koya in a tone that reverberated inside the assembly hall

for a number of years.

Yes, that was his wish, his dream-a university that would

become world famous.

I was elated on hearing that statement on that occasion.

When the assembly was discussing the University Bill, I

was present in the visitor's gallery. It was my lot then to

be the organiser of the University and its temporary

administrator in the initial stages.

'A university that is likely to be world famous'-there was

hope, self confidence and determination in the words of

its far sighted founder. I am recording my memories here

with the sad thought that he could witness its growth

only for a short period of a decade and half.

He enjoyed a great sense of satisfaction, a feeling of a

great victory when he was piloting the bill in the

“I haven't shown any impropriety in giving the name of a world famous city to a

university which, I hope, would become world famous one day-indeed, there is

a great possibility, that this university would become world famous in future.”

C.H. Mohammed Koya

University of Calicutthe Architect of

Legislative Assembly. There was no model before him for

a new university having been established in Kerala.

However he had no misgiving about the need for such a

university. He told the Assembly.

“Everyone knows that the northern districts of Kerala are

educationally backward. I believe that the establishment

of a new university would certainly be a remedy for that

situation”

I wish that somebody would write a complete history of

the university of Calicut. My aim is just to indulge in

reminiscences, pointing out, at the same time, a few

relevant facts. It was in accordance with the

recommendation of a public committee with the Vice

Chacellor of the University of Kerala or its chairman, that

the Government of Kerala decided to establish an

affiliating University in Calicut and a federal University in

Cochin.

The making of university legislation was a complex

problem in Kerala. It was a matter of common

knowledge that private managements were considered

to have vested interests and teachers were taken as an

organized group perfectly demanding their rights. The

relationship between the management and the teachers

was taken to be one like the relationship between

capitalists and the proletariates. This state of affairs led

to all sorts of conflicts. Many provisions in the Kerala

University Bill were questioned in courts. In these

circumstances it was not an easy job to make a university

bill which would satisfy the administration, teachers,

students and the management. Moreover, framework of

the existing university bill, in toto had to be followed as a

model. Taking these limiting factors in to consideration,

an act was drafted and to avoid delay the university was

established after having got the act passed as an

ordinance.

Sri.Koya wished that the new university should have a

new approach that would facilitate its growth in

consonance with his dreams. An expert committee was

thus appointed with Sri.Koya himself as its chairman. Its

members were experienced men like Dr. Nag Choudhary,

planning commission member, Dr, Tayabji who had been

vice-chancellor in several universities, Dr.K.G Saiyiddeen,

who was secretary for education to the Government of

India, I was the member secretary of the chief executive

officer of the university. We met several times at Calicut

and prepared many long term projects. The U.G.C

appointed an expert committee to examine them. The

committee, in turn approved the projects. In the light of

the development of the new campus at Thenjipalam the

U.G.C recorded that the University of Calicut would be a

model for new universities.

The practice of granting exemptions for teachers in

qualifications and age limit was stopped forthwith. It

was suggested that university departments should not be

satisfied with traditional M.A/MSc courses and that they

should engage themselves in original research. It was

also envisaged that teachers in the university

departments should go and teach, occasionally, in

affiliated colleges. However, these programmes could

not be implemented as there was opposition to these

moves from some quarters.

New projects were planned, in which the educational and

industrial sectors could cooperate. These too were short

lived. However, later experience proved that these

projects could be revivied.

The development of the Thenhipalam campus received

high priority. In all these the minister himself showed a

personal interest and provided all help and cooperation.

Two years later, when the University of Cochin was

established, Mohammed Koya was anxious about the

growth and shortcomings of the University of Calicut.

Whatever may be his dreams and expectations, it is true

that the delay in the implementation of projects,

unavoidable obstructions and the negative response

from many who were expected to help disheartened him.

This could be seen in the speeches that he made in the

Assembly on the occasion of the passing of Cochin

University Bill.

Nobody should expect that this would change the face of

the country and that as if with the help of Aladdin's magic

lamp, all unemployed young men and women would get

jobs. This is just a small beginning to solve a big problem

that our country faces. As the poet says,

In this small boat do I cross the waters

To reach the other shore of the ocean.

This is just an earnest attempt to find solutions to our

problems. Education should be linked with industry. The

University of Calicut had, right from its inception, made

some attempts to generate employment opportunities by

linking education with industry. I hope this university

would also follow suit. No doubt it would have some effect.

C.H. Mohammed Koya

(Vol.XXiX-17-8-71 Kerala Assembly proceeding)

U n i v e r s i t y H i s t o r y

I am quoting the above from the proceedings of the

Kerala Legislative Assembly, the words uttered by

the then education minister Mr. C.H.Mohammed

Koya in a tone that reverberated inside the assembly hall

for a number of years.

Yes, that was his wish, his dream-a university that would

become world famous.

I was elated on hearing that statement on that occasion.

When the assembly was discussing the University Bill, I

was present in the visitor's gallery. It was my lot then to

be the organiser of the University and its temporary

administrator in the initial stages.

'A university that is likely to be world famous'-there was

hope, self confidence and determination in the words of

its far sighted founder. I am recording my memories here

with the sad thought that he could witness its growth

only for a short period of a decade and half.

He enjoyed a great sense of satisfaction, a feeling of a

great victory when he was piloting the bill in the

“I haven't shown any impropriety in giving the name of a world famous city to a

university which, I hope, would become world famous one day-indeed, there is

a great possibility, that this university would become world famous in future.”

C.H. Mohammed Koya

University of Calicutthe Architect of

Legislative Assembly. There was no model before him for

a new university having been established in Kerala.

However he had no misgiving about the need for such a

university. He told the Assembly.

“Everyone knows that the northern districts of Kerala are

educationally backward. I believe that the establishment

of a new university would certainly be a remedy for that

situation”

I wish that somebody would write a complete history of

the university of Calicut. My aim is just to indulge in

reminiscences, pointing out, at the same time, a few

relevant facts. It was in accordance with the

recommendation of a public committee with the Vice

Chacellor of the University of Kerala or its chairman, that

the Government of Kerala decided to establish an

affiliating University in Calicut and a federal University in

Cochin.

The making of university legislation was a complex

problem in Kerala. It was a matter of common

knowledge that private managements were considered

to have vested interests and teachers were taken as an

organized group perfectly demanding their rights. The

relationship between the management and the teachers

was taken to be one like the relationship between

capitalists and the proletariates. This state of affairs led

to all sorts of conflicts. Many provisions in the Kerala

University Bill were questioned in courts. In these

circumstances it was not an easy job to make a university

bill which would satisfy the administration, teachers,

students and the management. Moreover, framework of

the existing university bill, in toto had to be followed as a

model. Taking these limiting factors in to consideration,

an act was drafted and to avoid delay the university was

established after having got the act passed as an

ordinance.

Sri.Koya wished that the new university should have a

new approach that would facilitate its growth in

consonance with his dreams. An expert committee was

thus appointed with Sri.Koya himself as its chairman. Its

members were experienced men like Dr. Nag Choudhary,

planning commission member, Dr, Tayabji who had been

vice-chancellor in several universities, Dr.K.G Saiyiddeen,

who was secretary for education to the Government of

India, I was the member secretary of the chief executive

officer of the university. We met several times at Calicut

and prepared many long term projects. The U.G.C

appointed an expert committee to examine them. The

committee, in turn approved the projects. In the light of

the development of the new campus at Thenjipalam the

U.G.C recorded that the University of Calicut would be a

model for new universities.

The practice of granting exemptions for teachers in

qualifications and age limit was stopped forthwith. It

was suggested that university departments should not be

satisfied with traditional M.A/MSc courses and that they

should engage themselves in original research. It was

also envisaged that teachers in the university

departments should go and teach, occasionally, in

affiliated colleges. However, these programmes could

not be implemented as there was opposition to these

moves from some quarters.

New projects were planned, in which the educational and

industrial sectors could cooperate. These too were short

lived. However, later experience proved that these

projects could be revivied.

The development of the Thenhipalam campus received

high priority. In all these the minister himself showed a

personal interest and provided all help and cooperation.

Two years later, when the University of Cochin was

established, Mohammed Koya was anxious about the

growth and shortcomings of the University of Calicut.

Whatever may be his dreams and expectations, it is true

that the delay in the implementation of projects,

unavoidable obstructions and the negative response

from many who were expected to help disheartened him.

This could be seen in the speeches that he made in the

Assembly on the occasion of the passing of Cochin

University Bill.

Nobody should expect that this would change the face of

the country and that as if with the help of Aladdin's magic

lamp, all unemployed young men and women would get

jobs. This is just a small beginning to solve a big problem

that our country faces. As the poet says,

In this small boat do I cross the waters

To reach the other shore of the ocean.

This is just an earnest attempt to find solutions to our

problems. Education should be linked with industry. The

University of Calicut had, right from its inception, made

some attempts to generate employment opportunities by

linking education with industry. I hope this university

would also follow suit. No doubt it would have some effect.

C.H. Mohammed Koya

(Vol.XXiX-17-8-71 Kerala Assembly proceeding)

U n i v e r s i t y H i s t o r y

When a new university is established and it passes

through teething troubles, the society would not take into

consideration all the factors when it passes its

judgement. Even two years after its establishment, the

University of Calicut and its activities were not well known

to the public. The people were ignorant of its

achievement. As such there was a lot of adverse

criticism in the mass media. Keeping all these things in

mind, Mohammed Koya was outlining the future

programme of the University. Mr.Triguna Sen, the then

Union minister for education said a few things to the

thousands of people assembled at Mananchira maidan on

the occasion of the unveiling of a plaque to

commemorate the founding of the university. One of the

things that he suggested was when a new university was

being established it should be through proper legislation

and not through an ordinance. He also expressed

genuine doubts about the promulgation of another

ordinance aimed at the improvement of the new

university. He also queried whether the same dull routine

processes to establish outdated departments, curricula,

and the meaningless ritual of research could be

unimaginatively repeated here too just to boast of the

size and stature of the university perhaps even about the

number of universities in the state. The Education

minister C.H Muhamammed Koya, the architect of Calicut

University obviously must have been pained by these

stringent observations.

In his characteristic way he remarked that to do

something new was really difficult though it was

customary to be criticized for the lapses. In Kerala,

education ministers had been changing at short intervals

and hence the educational policy too.

A general complaint is that experimental and innovative

educational policies are harmful. So there has ever been

a cry for pursuing the tested and trusted path in matters

of education. However, C.H. made it very clear in a

statement that after the formation of the Calicut

University, within a short period it could do something

original at least in the form of new attempts.

What were those new experiments? Calicut Unviersity

was not formed just with the intention to reduce the size

and problems of Kerala University. Northern Kerala, as

hinted earlier, has ever been backward in education. But

it is blessed with boundless natural resources, tradition,

history and culture and highly imaginative people gifted

with creative talents. The prime aim behind the

formation of Calicut University was to transform the

people of this region into educated people of action with

an abounding sense of dedication. A meaningful rapport

between the university and the industrial sector and a

pioneering effort to transform the whole mass were

woven into the very concept of Calicut University.

The introduction of an adult education department, not

very common in other universities, was a step in this

direction. The hope was to make use of the service of

college and university professors and teachers to spread

education and information among the older people, men

and women through evening and night classes. CH

himself took part in many such classes and inspired

others to futher this project.

Another effort was to lint the educational experiments

and the industrial sector. He thought, a degree in

technology or engineering was important but it was more

important for such personnel to gain actual work

experience. He firmly believed that industries could

provide the base for this and in turn receive the benefits

of newfound, sound technological knowledge. The

appointment of Sri Kaderkutty, a proven industrialist of

north Malabar, as the first dean of technology faculty,

was a bold step in this line. A mere degree was not

reckoned as a must for this appointment. On the

contrary, the organizational ability, vision and planning

evinced by that industrialist were the sole criteria. We

tried to solicit the co-operation of the industrial sector as

a whole to educate and evolve a set of high calibre

technologists and scientists. The very same point he

highlighted in his later speech at the Assembly. Bachelor

of technology courses in four subjects-forestry resources

and development, fisheries, harnessing and utilization of

chemicals, use of iron and steel. These courses of four

years duration(8semester) were expected to be practical

and actual work experience oriented under the prevailing

conditions in factories. Western India Plywoods,

Western India Steel Rolling Mills, Gwalior Rayons, Kerala

Soaps Factory, etc. gave the facilities for practical

training and actual work experience. The students also

worked in distant and different processing, preserving,

developing, and sales depots pertaining to

fisheries,forestry, chemicals and iron and steel.

At a time when big factories were unwilling to take even

qualified engineers and scientists as apprentices on a

meager stipend basis, the education minister used his

own personal influence to train more than fifity students

in the above mentioned prestigious and fully developed

factories. Perhaps this vital factor was not known to

many. Some central institutions with the backing of

Indian government objected to the courses on forestry

and fisheries and even threatened that the degrees

conferred by Calicut University would not be recognized.

C.H. stuck to his guns at least during his tenure and

masterminded the running and completion of these

innovative courses; even granting its experimental

nature and the inherent inevitable drawbacks.

But all obstacles were overcome and all the four degree

courses were started. Subject experts of neighbouring

institutions, factories and governmental departments

were appointed as teachers on a temporary basis.

Classes were held in places like the Y.M.C.A on every

working day students received lectures for two to three

hours, besides vocational training. Koya himself

inaugurated the courses at an informal gathering. It was

a new experiment at the university level of education,

innovative and exciting.

Endeavors of this kind were not easy. In the meantime,

we had to find a new location for the university and also

provide essential facilities for its smooth functioning. In

tackling these problems too, we had Koya's unstinted

moral support and encouragement so that we could be

bold and innovative.

Professor Samuel Mathai happended to visit

Thenhipalam where Kerala university had planned to

When a new university is established and it passes

through teething troubles, the society would not take into

consideration all the factors when it passes its

judgement. Even two years after its establishment, the

University of Calicut and its activities were not well known

to the public. The people were ignorant of its

achievement. As such there was a lot of adverse

criticism in the mass media. Keeping all these things in

mind, Mohammed Koya was outlining the future

programme of the University. Mr.Triguna Sen, the then

Union minister for education said a few things to the

thousands of people assembled at Mananchira maidan on

the occasion of the unveiling of a plaque to

commemorate the founding of the university. One of the

things that he suggested was when a new university was

being established it should be through proper legislation

and not through an ordinance. He also expressed

genuine doubts about the promulgation of another

ordinance aimed at the improvement of the new

university. He also queried whether the same dull routine

processes to establish outdated departments, curricula,

and the meaningless ritual of research could be

unimaginatively repeated here too just to boast of the

size and stature of the university perhaps even about the

number of universities in the state. The Education

minister C.H Muhamammed Koya, the architect of Calicut

University obviously must have been pained by these

stringent observations.

In his characteristic way he remarked that to do

something new was really difficult though it was

customary to be criticized for the lapses. In Kerala,

education ministers had been changing at short intervals

and hence the educational policy too.

A general complaint is that experimental and innovative

educational policies are harmful. So there has ever been

a cry for pursuing the tested and trusted path in matters

of education. However, C.H. made it very clear in a

statement that after the formation of the Calicut

University, within a short period it could do something

original at least in the form of new attempts.

What were those new experiments? Calicut Unviersity

was not formed just with the intention to reduce the size

and problems of Kerala University. Northern Kerala, as

hinted earlier, has ever been backward in education. But

it is blessed with boundless natural resources, tradition,

history and culture and highly imaginative people gifted

with creative talents. The prime aim behind the

formation of Calicut University was to transform the

people of this region into educated people of action with

an abounding sense of dedication. A meaningful rapport

between the university and the industrial sector and a

pioneering effort to transform the whole mass were

woven into the very concept of Calicut University.

The introduction of an adult education department, not

very common in other universities, was a step in this

direction. The hope was to make use of the service of

college and university professors and teachers to spread

education and information among the older people, men

and women through evening and night classes. CH

himself took part in many such classes and inspired

others to futher this project.

Another effort was to lint the educational experiments

and the industrial sector. He thought, a degree in

technology or engineering was important but it was more

important for such personnel to gain actual work

experience. He firmly believed that industries could

provide the base for this and in turn receive the benefits

of newfound, sound technological knowledge. The

appointment of Sri Kaderkutty, a proven industrialist of

north Malabar, as the first dean of technology faculty,

was a bold step in this line. A mere degree was not

reckoned as a must for this appointment. On the

contrary, the organizational ability, vision and planning

evinced by that industrialist were the sole criteria. We

tried to solicit the co-operation of the industrial sector as

a whole to educate and evolve a set of high calibre

technologists and scientists. The very same point he

highlighted in his later speech at the Assembly. Bachelor

of technology courses in four subjects-forestry resources

and development, fisheries, harnessing and utilization of

chemicals, use of iron and steel. These courses of four

years duration(8semester) were expected to be practical

and actual work experience oriented under the prevailing

conditions in factories. Western India Plywoods,

Western India Steel Rolling Mills, Gwalior Rayons, Kerala

Soaps Factory, etc. gave the facilities for practical

training and actual work experience. The students also

worked in distant and different processing, preserving,

developing, and sales depots pertaining to

fisheries,forestry, chemicals and iron and steel.

At a time when big factories were unwilling to take even

qualified engineers and scientists as apprentices on a

meager stipend basis, the education minister used his

own personal influence to train more than fifity students

in the above mentioned prestigious and fully developed

factories. Perhaps this vital factor was not known to

many. Some central institutions with the backing of

Indian government objected to the courses on forestry

and fisheries and even threatened that the degrees

conferred by Calicut University would not be recognized.

C.H. stuck to his guns at least during his tenure and

masterminded the running and completion of these

innovative courses; even granting its experimental

nature and the inherent inevitable drawbacks.

But all obstacles were overcome and all the four degree

courses were started. Subject experts of neighbouring

institutions, factories and governmental departments

were appointed as teachers on a temporary basis.

Classes were held in places like the Y.M.C.A on every

working day students received lectures for two to three

hours, besides vocational training. Koya himself

inaugurated the courses at an informal gathering. It was

a new experiment at the university level of education,

innovative and exciting.

Endeavors of this kind were not easy. In the meantime,

we had to find a new location for the university and also

provide essential facilities for its smooth functioning. In

tackling these problems too, we had Koya's unstinted

moral support and encouragement so that we could be

bold and innovative.

Professor Samuel Mathai happended to visit

Thenhipalam where Kerala university had planned to

Universities are meant for social uplift and they are

the only source of guidance for social progress,

said former Supreme Court Judge and veteran

social activist Justice V. R. Krishna Iyer. The doyen of

Indian judiciary, who visited the University on October

10, 2012, was interacting with the higher officials and

academicians at the University Guest House.

Every university has a mission to accomplish. Calicut is

also no difference. People expect progressive steps only

from Universities, not from any other fields like

industries. If you aim at social development, your

University can set out on a real odyssey, he inspired the

teachers encircled him with reverence.

The University community led by Vice Chancellor Prof. M.

Abdul Salam, Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. K Raveendranath

and Registrar Dr. P.P.Mohamed and other statutory

officers and Syndicate members received Krishna Iyer

with a guard of honour. Syndicate member T.V Ebrahim

handed over to him a copy of the draft project proposal

for setting up the Department of Legal Studies on the

campus and requested his patronage for the project.

People expect progressive steps

only from Universities,

not from any other fields like industries.

Vice Chancellor Dr. M. Abdul Salam receiving Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer

develop a centre of learning. He was the chairman of the

committee constituted for this purpose and among other

members who visited the spot were Prof. Mundasseri

and myself. That day I secretly shared one of my doubts

with Mundasseri.

'Why should this great centre of learning be established

in a locale so isolated and cut off from the haunts of

social activities?' Indeed the place was desolate.

Mohammed Koya himself described it as a God-forsaken

barren land'. That is another story to which I shall return

later.

The administrative offices of the university were shifted

from the Government Polytechnic, Calicut to

Thenhipalam on October 2, 1969 _the day of Gandhiji's

birth anniversary. Arrangements had been made for

housing all the employees of that time on the campus

itself. The supply of water and electricity was ensured

right from the beginning. Facilities for travel,

communication and shopping were also been made

available prior to the shifting of the office. In due course

the head office and the teaching departments were

moved in to the campus. These were accomplished at

an incredibly short space of time thanks to Koya's

foresight and timely guidelines as well as the

confidence that he reposed in me. It may not be out of

place to cite here a brief note that he wrote about the

role that I had in effecting these changes: 'The Calicut

University he built up from scratch. It was Alladin's

wonderful lamp. He planned it and managed the

execution of the plans. In no time, the God-forsaken

barren land at Thenhipalam became a model university'.

As a matter of fact he himself was the Alladin who gave

me the magic lamp. With a dignified humility he was

only concealing his role while complimenting me.

All the experiences of the new campus were not sweet.

Some were bitter. But Mr.Koya shared our problems by

visiting the campus almost every week. He was very

fond of the university guest house. During his journeys

to north Malabar he often halted enroute at the guest

house. He would discuss our problems with us for hours

together.

K.C. Chacko

(First Pro Vice Chancellor, University of Calicut)

The prime aim behind the

formation of Calicut University was

to transform the people of this

regions into educated people of

action with an abounding sense of

dedication. A meaningful rapport

between the university and the

industrial sector and a pioneering

effort to transform the whole mass

were woven into the very concept

of Calicut University.

Universities are meant for social uplift and they are

the only source of guidance for social progress,

said former Supreme Court Judge and veteran

social activist Justice V. R. Krishna Iyer. The doyen of

Indian judiciary, who visited the University on October

10, 2012, was interacting with the higher officials and

academicians at the University Guest House.

Every university has a mission to accomplish. Calicut is

also no difference. People expect progressive steps only

from Universities, not from any other fields like

industries. If you aim at social development, your

University can set out on a real odyssey, he inspired the

teachers encircled him with reverence.

The University community led by Vice Chancellor Prof. M.

Abdul Salam, Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. K Raveendranath

and Registrar Dr. P.P.Mohamed and other statutory

officers and Syndicate members received Krishna Iyer

with a guard of honour. Syndicate member T.V Ebrahim

handed over to him a copy of the draft project proposal

for setting up the Department of Legal Studies on the

campus and requested his patronage for the project.

People expect progressive steps

only from Universities,

not from any other fields like industries.

Vice Chancellor Dr. M. Abdul Salam receiving Justice V.R. Krishna Iyer

develop a centre of learning. He was the chairman of the

committee constituted for this purpose and among other

members who visited the spot were Prof. Mundasseri

and myself. That day I secretly shared one of my doubts

with Mundasseri.

'Why should this great centre of learning be established

in a locale so isolated and cut off from the haunts of

social activities?' Indeed the place was desolate.

Mohammed Koya himself described it as a God-forsaken

barren land'. That is another story to which I shall return

later.

The administrative offices of the university were shifted

from the Government Polytechnic, Calicut to

Thenhipalam on October 2, 1969 _the day of Gandhiji's

birth anniversary. Arrangements had been made for

housing all the employees of that time on the campus

itself. The supply of water and electricity was ensured

right from the beginning. Facilities for travel,

communication and shopping were also been made

available prior to the shifting of the office. In due course

the head office and the teaching departments were

moved in to the campus. These were accomplished at

an incredibly short space of time thanks to Koya's

foresight and timely guidelines as well as the

confidence that he reposed in me. It may not be out of

place to cite here a brief note that he wrote about the

role that I had in effecting these changes: 'The Calicut

University he built up from scratch. It was Alladin's

wonderful lamp. He planned it and managed the

execution of the plans. In no time, the God-forsaken

barren land at Thenhipalam became a model university'.

As a matter of fact he himself was the Alladin who gave

me the magic lamp. With a dignified humility he was

only concealing his role while complimenting me.

All the experiences of the new campus were not sweet.

Some were bitter. But Mr.Koya shared our problems by

visiting the campus almost every week. He was very

fond of the university guest house. During his journeys

to north Malabar he often halted enroute at the guest

house. He would discuss our problems with us for hours

together.

K.C. Chacko

(First Pro Vice Chancellor, University of Calicut)

The prime aim behind the

formation of Calicut University was

to transform the people of this

regions into educated people of

action with an abounding sense of

dedication. A meaningful rapport

between the university and the

industrial sector and a pioneering

effort to transform the whole mass

were woven into the very concept

of Calicut University.

Vice Chancellor Prof. M Abdul Salam was conferred

with the honorary rank of Colonel by the Ministry

of Defense for his outstanding contributions to

the National Cadet Corps. Brigadier Subramaniam,

Deputy Director General in charge of Kerala and

Lakshadweep NCC, along with NCC Malabar Wing

Commander Colonel M Purushothaman awarded the

rank to the Prof. Salam by fixing the insignia on his

shoulders at a function held at the Seminar complex on 7

August.

“Today is a memorable and historic day in my life.

Indeed with great honor and humility, I receive this

prestigious title – the honorary rank of Colonel

Commandant of the armed forces,” said Prof. Salam

receiving the much coveted title.

“I am deeply moved by the sense of patriotism and

commitment to the mother nation and am fully aware of

the responsibility. With this title, I have a responsibility to

support all causes of NCC and Armed Forces with added

spirit and enthusiasm. This title also confers more

Vice Chancellor

Brigadier Subramaniam, Deputy Director General in charge of Kerala

and Lakshadweep NCC conferring honorary rank of

Colonel on Vice Chancellor Dr.M. Abdul Salam.

CONFERRED WITH COLONEL RANK

- Vindhya P (III Sem. MCJ)

At a special function titled 'Guruvandanam', Calicut

University honored two luminaries who

immensely contributed to the establishment of

the Department of History and Department of Physical

Education, which fetched many accolades to the

institution from national and international circuits of

intelligentsia. Prominent historian, social critic and

former Head of the Department of History Prof. M G S

Narayanan and Sri. E J Jacob, former Director of

Physical Education and mastermind behind many

victories of the University in sporting arena were the

Gurus Honored

Vice Chancellor Dr. M. Abdul Salam Honoring Prof. M G S Narayanan. Also seen are

Dr. Mohamedunni Alias Musthafa M.N. (Director, SDE), Prof. K. Raveendranath (PVC), T.V. Ibrahim (Member, Syndicate) and E J Jacob

Vice Chancellor presenting certificate

to Mohamed Arshad

Muhammadali N.

H o n o u r

responsibility on me to promote NCC in all the affiliated

colleges,” he said.

NCC helps the youth develop good character, patriotism,

comradeship, discipline, leadership, secular view and

selflessness. Without the uniform, we may have caste,

religion, politics, regional or linguistic spirits, and several

diverse feelings, but in uniform, we shed all these

feelings away to become one, just an Indian, he said.

Brigadier Subramaniam read the citation at the function.

“The NCC aims to add two lakh more cadets to the

present number of 13 lakh in the country. It is our

pleasure to honor great personalities in the country. That

is why we recommended Prof. Salam to the Defence

Ministry for the honorary rank, he said.

University Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. K. Raveendranath,

NCC Group Commander Colonel M Purushothaman,

Syndicate members Navas Jan, T V Ibrahim and PM Niyas

felicitated. Colonel Manjeet welcomed the gathering and

Battalion Commanding Officer Colonel KN Vijayan

proposed a vote of thanks.

stalwarts honoured for their outstanding contributions

to the University.

Vice Chancellor Prof. M. Abdul Salam inaugurated

Guruvandanam on October 5, 2012 at the Seminar

Complex. “We are happy to imbibe lessons from the rich

experiences of former leaders like Prof. M G S Narayanan

and Sri. Jacob. It is nothing but their commitment to the

University and perseverance to the knowledge that

motivate these octogenarians to still serve us with

valuable guidance. The new generation has many

lessons to learn from their zeal and vigour”, Vice

Chancellor said draping them with golden shawls in their

honour. Prof. Narayanan and Sri. Jacob recollected good

old days they spent on the campus. Integrity of

Mohamed Arshad, an eight year old student, who gave

back the lost money to its owner, was also acknowledged

at the function. Vice Chancellor presented him with a

memento..

Prof. M G S Narayanan launched the website and Sri.

Jacob released the brochure of the School of Distance

Education, University of Calicut at the session chaired by

Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. K. Raveendranath.

Syndicate member T V Ebrahim, Head of the Department

of History Prof. Asokan Mundon, Deputy Director of

Department of Physical Education Dr. V P Zakeer Husain

facilitated. Dr. Muhammadunni alias Mustafa, Director,

SDE welcomed the gathering and Sri. M V Zacharia, PRO

in charge proposed a vote of thanks.

Vice Chancellor Prof. M Abdul Salam was conferred

with the honorary rank of Colonel by the Ministry

of Defense for his outstanding contributions to

the National Cadet Corps. Brigadier Subramaniam,

Deputy Director General in charge of Kerala and

Lakshadweep NCC, along with NCC Malabar Wing

Commander Colonel M Purushothaman awarded the

rank to the Prof. Salam by fixing the insignia on his

shoulders at a function held at the Seminar complex on 7

August.

“Today is a memorable and historic day in my life.

Indeed with great honor and humility, I receive this

prestigious title – the honorary rank of Colonel

Commandant of the armed forces,” said Prof. Salam

receiving the much coveted title.

“I am deeply moved by the sense of patriotism and

commitment to the mother nation and am fully aware of

the responsibility. With this title, I have a responsibility to

support all causes of NCC and Armed Forces with added

spirit and enthusiasm. This title also confers more

Vice Chancellor

Brigadier Subramaniam, Deputy Director General in charge of Kerala

and Lakshadweep NCC conferring honorary rank of

Colonel on Vice Chancellor Dr.M. Abdul Salam.

CONFERRED WITH COLONEL RANK

- Vindhya P (III Sem. MCJ)

At a special function titled 'Guruvandanam', Calicut

University honored two luminaries who

immensely contributed to the establishment of

the Department of History and Department of Physical

Education, which fetched many accolades to the

institution from national and international circuits of

intelligentsia. Prominent historian, social critic and

former Head of the Department of History Prof. M G S

Narayanan and Sri. E J Jacob, former Director of

Physical Education and mastermind behind many

victories of the University in sporting arena were the

Gurus Honored

Vice Chancellor Dr. M. Abdul Salam Honoring Prof. M G S Narayanan. Also seen are

Dr. Mohamedunni Alias Musthafa M.N. (Director, SDE), Prof. K. Raveendranath (PVC), T.V. Ibrahim (Member, Syndicate) and E J Jacob

Vice Chancellor presenting certificate

to Mohamed Arshad

Muhammadali N.

H o n o u r

responsibility on me to promote NCC in all the affiliated

colleges,” he said.

NCC helps the youth develop good character, patriotism,

comradeship, discipline, leadership, secular view and

selflessness. Without the uniform, we may have caste,

religion, politics, regional or linguistic spirits, and several

diverse feelings, but in uniform, we shed all these

feelings away to become one, just an Indian, he said.

Brigadier Subramaniam read the citation at the function.

“The NCC aims to add two lakh more cadets to the

present number of 13 lakh in the country. It is our

pleasure to honor great personalities in the country. That

is why we recommended Prof. Salam to the Defence

Ministry for the honorary rank, he said.

University Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. K. Raveendranath,

NCC Group Commander Colonel M Purushothaman,

Syndicate members Navas Jan, T V Ibrahim and PM Niyas

felicitated. Colonel Manjeet welcomed the gathering and

Battalion Commanding Officer Colonel KN Vijayan

proposed a vote of thanks.

stalwarts honoured for their outstanding contributions

to the University.

Vice Chancellor Prof. M. Abdul Salam inaugurated

Guruvandanam on October 5, 2012 at the Seminar

Complex. “We are happy to imbibe lessons from the rich

experiences of former leaders like Prof. M G S Narayanan

and Sri. Jacob. It is nothing but their commitment to the

University and perseverance to the knowledge that

motivate these octogenarians to still serve us with

valuable guidance. The new generation has many

lessons to learn from their zeal and vigour”, Vice

Chancellor said draping them with golden shawls in their

honour. Prof. Narayanan and Sri. Jacob recollected good

old days they spent on the campus. Integrity of

Mohamed Arshad, an eight year old student, who gave

back the lost money to its owner, was also acknowledged

at the function. Vice Chancellor presented him with a

memento..

Prof. M G S Narayanan launched the website and Sri.

Jacob released the brochure of the School of Distance

Education, University of Calicut at the session chaired by

Pro Vice Chancellor Prof. K. Raveendranath.

Syndicate member T V Ebrahim, Head of the Department

of History Prof. Asokan Mundon, Deputy Director of

Department of Physical Education Dr. V P Zakeer Husain

facilitated. Dr. Muhammadunni alias Mustafa, Director,

SDE welcomed the gathering and Sri. M V Zacharia, PRO

in charge proposed a vote of thanks.

Three and half decades of investigations of the

flora and in depth study of the translations 12

volumes translation of Horthus Malabaricus has

fetched the renowned taxonomist Dr.K.S. Manilal, the

highest Civilian Award given by the Netherlands

Government. Representing Her Majesty Queen Beatrix,

Ms. Marijke A. Van Drunen Littel, Consel General in

Mumbai, kingdom of the Netherlands honoured him with

“Officer in the Order of Oranje-Nassau Award'' at an

august gathering held at Taj Gateway Hotel, Kozhikode.

Prof. K.S.Manilal, Emiratus Professor, Department of

Botany, University of Calicutwas chosen for this rare

honour in recognition of his signal achievement in

interpreting and translating Hortus Malabaricus, which is

the most extensive study of the medico-botanical

resources of Asia published in 17thcentury Europe. The

treatise is considered to be an important testimony of the

historical contact between Netherlands and India.

Hortus Indicus Malabaricus was the result of a project

launched by Hendrik Adriaan van Rheede, the then

Dutch Governor of Malabar. The 12 Volumes of the Latin

book were published during 1678-1693 from

Amsterdam. The compilation and publication of Hortus

Malabaricus is intimately connected with the history of

India, politics of the 17th century Netherlands and the

social conditions of Malabar, now part of Kerala.

Interpretation and translation of Hortus Malabaricus brings award

An important development in the study of Hortus

Malabaricus was its translation from Latin into English

and Malayalam, with annotation and modern botanical

and historical interpretation, a 35-year work by Prof.

Manilal. These 12 volumes in English were published in

2003 by the Univesity of Kerala. The information on the

medicinal uses of plants described in this book is of

immense significance in the context of attempts being

made in several countries to recover the traditional

knowledge and native wisdom related to various

scientific disciplines. Scattered throughout the Hortus

Malabaricus are details of aspects of life and culture in

South India. The importance given to Itty Achuthen the

local physician whose knowledge forms the key pillar in

the Hortus Malabaricus in spite of his lower caste origin

tells us a great deal about the complex social structure of

south Indian society 300 years ago. Achuthen's

selection by the Dutch Governor van Rheede highlights

the respect and high regard placed on merit of the

individual in the ancient south Indian society.

Despite the uniqueness and importance of the book,

Hortus Malabaricus is seldom mentioned in scholarly

discussions onthe scientific heritage of Asia, because the

book was written in old Latin and soinaccessible to most

Asians. The significance of Prof. Manilal's translation to

English and Malayalam lies in this context. Yet, the

significance ofHortus as a scientific treatise with

immensecontemporary value remains to be properly

appreciated and its translator remainslargely unknown

outside theacademic community. The award and its

publication during the Netherlands-India heritage day

celebration were actually a belated tribute to a well-

deserved academic.

Eminent Botanists, from across the country attended the

function which wasinaugurated by Hon. Minister Dr.M.K.

Muneer. Dr.C.K. Ramachandran presided over. Prof.

M.G.S. Narayanan, and Dr.P.A. Indira Balachandran

offered felicitations. Dr.M.Sabu, Professor and Head

Department of Botany welcomed the gathering and Dr.P.

Sunoj Kumar proposed a vote of thanks.

Pro. (Dr.). Kattungal Subramaniam Manilal started his career as one of the earliest taxonomic

researchers in South India in 1960 at the University of Calicut. He played a pivotal role in

establishing theSchool of Floristic and Plant Taxonomy at the University, now recognized as

one of the foremost institutions of its kind in Asia. As a teacher he was involved in the training

of several young taxonomists at a time when taxonomy received little attention and

institutional support. His explorations at Silent Valley helped reveal the status of the rare

flora there and provedcrucialin prompting the Central Govt. declaration of the site as a

national park.

Dr. Manilal verified the botanical identity of several traditional Indian ayurvedic medicinal

plants, and established the identity of over 650 plants described in Hortus Malabaricus.

During the years 1972-2002, he and his students discovered and described over 240 new

species and prepared records of newly identified flowering plants. Dr. Manilal has published

11 books and as many as 200 papers on various aspects of plant taxonomy. Through his

timely initiative, he helped establish the Indian Association for Angiosperm (IAAT), with over

700 dedicated Life Members on its rolls. Dr. Manilal is also the founder of the international

research journal Rheedea,specializing in taxonomy.

He has conducted extensive studies on the social, cultural, political, historical and linguistic

aspects of botanical researches, proving the relevance of taxonomy to both laymen and the

nation. His work has also won him international reputation. He has been a visiting scientist at

various universities such as London University, Smithsonian Institution and Leiden University.

In the present scenario, when our natural plant resources assume great economic and

political importance, in thecontext of issues related to patent and Intellectual Property

Rights, the significant contributions made by Dr. Manilal in nurturing, maintaining and

developing expertise in taxonomy needs to be further acknowledged and appreciated.

Pro. (Dr.). K. S. Manilal

H o n o u r

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