In Loving Memory of Dr Aung Gyi
Honorary Advisor of MASTAA
1931 - 2026
A Tribute from MASTAA Alumni Association
It is with profound sadness that MASTAA Alumni Association remembers HAC Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi, who passed away on October 13, 2026, at the age of 95.
Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi was a distinguished engineer, educator, academic leader, and international development professional who dedicated his career to engineering education, institutional development, and the advancement of science and technology.
During MASTAA’s formative years, we continued to seek his counsel. His wisdom, experience, and invaluable advice helped guide the early development of our organization. We are deeply grateful for his guidance and the time and thought he generously shared with MASTAA. His contributions as a member of our Honorary Advisory Committee will remain an important part of our organization’s history.
His Life and Distinguished Career
Born in 1931 in Namtu, Northern Shan State, Myanmar, Dr. Aung Gyi began his academic journey at Rangoon University. He subsequently earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1955 and a Master of Science degree in 1956 in Civil Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), followed by a Ph.D. in Structural Engineering from the University of Alberta in 1965.
After working as a civil engineer in New York, he returned to Myanmar in 1957 and joined Rangoon University. His academic career advanced at the Rangoon Institute of Technology (RIT), where he became Professor and Head of Civil Engineering Department in 1966 before serving as Rector in 1971. He also helped establish and guide the University Computer Center in Rangoon, contributing to the development of computing capabilities in the country’s academic community.
Sayagyi later served as a Programme Specialist with UNESCO in New Delhi from 1977, supporting engineering, technical education, and applied-science programs across South and Central Asia.
In 1981, he joined the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) in Canada. He subsequently held senior regional positions in Singapore and New Delhi and became Regional Representative in 1994. He retired from IDRC in 1997.
Beyond his academic and international professional responsibilities, Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi contributed to professional and public institutions, including the Association of Engineers in Burma, the Burma Research Society, and the Shwedagon Pagoda Board of Trustees.
A Lasting Legacy
Dr. Aung Gyi’s career reflects a lifelong commitment to education, engineering, institutional development, and international cooperation. His contributions extended beyond the institutions he served to the many colleagues, students, and communities who benefited from his knowledge and experience.
For MASTAA, his legacy is also personal. His willingness to share his wisdom and counsel during our formative years helped guide the development of our organization. We will remember his service with gratitude and honor his enduring contribution to MASTAA.
MASTAA extends its deepest condolences to his wife, children, grandchildren, extended family, friends, colleagues, and former students. May his life and contributions be remembered with respect, and may his family find comfort in the legacy he leaves behind.