The education sector in Karnataka, particularly in the coastal region, mourns the loss of a stalwart. Professor S Prabhakar, the founding principal of SDM College in Ujire and a revered figure in academic circles, passed away on Wednesday. He was 90 years old.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Education and Rural Empowerment
Prof Prabhakar's career was a testament to his commitment to uplifting education, especially for students in rural areas. After serving as a lecturer in Bengaluru for five years, he made a pivotal decision. He left government service to become the founding principal of Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) College in Ujire in 1966. He held this leadership role with distinction for 27 years, until 1993, tirelessly working for the development of the institution and its students.
His influence extended far beyond the college campus. He served as both secretary and vice-president of the Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara Educational Trust. Furthermore, he contributed his expertise as a member and president of various crucial committees at both Mysuru and Mangaluru universities, helping shape academic policies and advancement.
Literary Contributions and Community Leadership
Beyond administration, Prof Prabhakar was a prolific author and literary figure. He authored three books and edited an impressive 18 literary works. For four decades, he served as the editor of the esteemed monthly magazine 'Manjuvani' published by Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala, guiding its content and voice.
His voice was also familiar on radio waves, where he participated in numerous discussions, reflections, and speeches concerning Mangaluru and broader topics. In a significant interfaith role, he served as the secretary for the interfaith literary conferences held in Dharmasthala for many years, fostering dialogue and understanding.
His dedication to literature was deeply rooted at the local level. For seven years, he led the Belthangady Taluk Literary Conference as its president. His tenure was marked by the initiation of the taluk's Sahitya Parishat, which significantly strengthened the Belthangady unit of the Dakshina Kannada District Sahitya Parishat.
Legacy of a Visionary Educator
The passing of Prof S Prabhakar has elicited profound condolences from the literary and educational community. The Dakshina Kannada District Sahitya Parishat has formally expressed its grief over his demise, acknowledging his immense contributions.
Prof Prabhakar's life was characterized by a unique blend of academic leadership, literary passion, and community service. He leaves behind a formidable legacy: a premier educational institution in Ujire that he built from the ground up, a richer literary landscape in Dakshina Kannada, and generations of students whose lives he touched. His work ensured that quality education and literary pursuits flourished in rural Karnataka, making him a true architect of regional progress.
