Venky's humility chemistry is high

At alma mater

As he retraced his steps to the school where he spent days learning the basics of formal education, Ramakrishnan was like an obedient student back at the Convent of Jesus and Mary School here on Monday.

Venky, as he is popularly known, was a Barodian as his father was the head of the bio-chemistry department of M S University then. Venky, who seemingly was quite nostalgic about his visit to the school, also had a word or two of advice for the students as an alumnus.

The Nobel Prize winner in chemistry shared some of his experience with them while he was on this very school  campus. He spoke about his moments at the playground, which, of course, has changed from the time he had left.

Venky did not disappoint the attentive audience, eager  to hear his advice. Highlighting some aspects of his career, he explained to the students that as individuals they should prioritise their career options and, at the same time, be able to harness their interest.

“When some people take up professions like engineering, the urge to earn a handsome money is high upon their priority.

“Earning money is not bad, but after a point of time it becomes immaterial and you want to do what your heart wants you to do. So go out and do what you actually want to do,” Venky told the students who were all ears to the Nobel laureate.

As a source of encouragement for the students, the school has already instituted a prize in Venky’s name and it will be given to the school toppers for their achievement in academic excellence. “It will be a source of encouragement and students will definitely try and become another Venky or probably scale newer heights,” said school principal Mary D’sousa.

And the students who were able to interact with Venky it was probably one of those moments that they would cherish and admit that a conversation with him had left an indelible impression on their minds.

Dhruti Parmar, one of the students, said: “We are proud that he comes from this school. And through his speech we have derived a positive energy and we feel proud of him. We will try and live up to his expectations and strive to work similarly the way he did and brought name and fame for himself and his school.”

Juhi Christy, another student, said: “I am touched by his humbleness. Even after having won the Nobel Prize he is so humble and accessible. I will try to inculcate the humility that he has in himself.’’ Juhi was also excited that she had a chance to speak to him and seek his advice on her career.

The students admitted that his humility was a lesson that everyone needs to learn which he has not left behind despite his achievement. For Venky, too, these were the moments that he would cherish even when he goes back.

Later in the day, Venky also attended several programmes hosted by M S University from where he graduated in 1971.