The education sector in Karnataka mourns a significant loss. Nitte University Chancellor N Vinaya Hegde passed away at the age of 86. A stalwart in the field of higher education, his demise leaves a void in the academic community of the region.
A Legacy Rooted in Service and Education
Vinaya Hegde was born on April 3, 1939. He carried forward a distinguished family legacy of public service. He was the second son of the late Justice K S Hegde, a revered figure who served as a judge in the Supreme Court of India and as the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, and the late Meenakshi Hegde. This background profoundly influenced his commitment to institution-building and societal contribution.
Architect of the Nitte Education Ecosystem
Vinaya Hegde's most enduring contribution is the vast Nitte education ecosystem in Mangaluru. Under his visionary leadership, what began as modest initiatives grew into a Deemed-to-be University, recognized for its excellence in fields like medicine, dentistry, engineering, and management. His hands-on approach and focus on quality education transformed the lives of countless students, particularly from coastal Karnataka.
He was not just an administrator but a mentor deeply involved in shaping the ethos of the institutions. His work ensured that professional education became accessible and was delivered with a strong sense of ethics and social responsibility.
A Community in Mourning
The news of his passing was confirmed on January 1, 2026. Tributes have begun pouring in from alumni, academicians, political leaders, and citizens across the state. He is remembered as a humble yet determined leader who dedicated his life to empowering future generations through education.
His death marks the end of an era for Nitte University and the broader educational landscape of Karnataka. The institutions he nurtured now stand as a living testament to his vision and hard work. The focus will now be on how his legacy and values continue to guide the university's path forward.
While the family has lost a pillar, the community has lost a true builder. The details regarding his final rites are expected to be announced by the family shortly.
