By Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs
On 26 January 2026, the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) welcomed back the alumni from the Computer Application (CA) program, batch 1980–1982. This campus visit represents a momentous occasion to reconnect with the institution that shaped their careers and to celebrate the remarkable achievements of this pioneering generation of computing professionals. The CA 1980–1982 holds a special place in AIT’s history, representing one of the early batches of computer science graduates during the formative years of the computing revolution.
AIT President, Prof. Pai-Chi Li, warmly welcomed the alumni back to the AIT campus and shared that it was truly special to have the group return. He noted that their regular gatherings reflect the strong friendships and lasting memories formed during their time at AIT, and that their studies at the Institute played an important role in shaping who they are today, both personally and professionally. He also expressed his sincere thanks to the group for coming together to support the renovation of a single-unit student dormitory in Dorm F, recognizing their contribution as a meaningful way of giving back to AIT.
Mr. Sanjeev Jayasinghe, Executive Director, Development and External Affairs – Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs, welcomed the group and highlighted that the alumni, representing different countries, are an important part of AIT’s history and legacy. He remarked that their accomplishments are a testament to the solid foundation they developed during their time at AIT, and he expressed his hope that they will continue to serve as an inspiration to both current and future students. In addition, he acknowledged the CA’80 -’82 batch contribution towards the renovation of one single unit student dormitory in Dorm F. We hope this will inspire other alumni groups to organize their own batch visits to AIT and find meaningful ways to give back.
Dr. Donald M. Ugsang, President of the AIT Alumni Association, extended a warm welcome to the group and seeing alumni gather once again on campus. He described the occasion as a meaningful reunion that brings together shared memories, lasting friendships, and the enduring spirit that unites the AIT alumni community. He noted that such gatherings not only celebrate the bonds formed during their time at AIT but also reaffirm the strong sense of connection and pride that alumni continue to carry with them long after graduation.
Mr. Chung-Cheng Kao, Vice Chairman of the MAA Group, Taiwan, conveyed his appreciation for the warm welcome and kind message extended to the group. He shared that he continues to work closely with the MAA Group and that the company maintains a strong and longstanding relationship with AIT reflecting the enduring ties between the Institute, its alumni, and industry partners.
Ms. Maria Fe Nuestro Ferriols, former President of the AIT Alumni Association, expressed sincere appreciation for the warm welcome. She shared that they call themselves the Computer Applications 1980–1982 group because they first met in January 1980, with members graduating between 1980 and 1982. She noted that this marks their third-class reunion at AIT: in 2009, during AIT’s 50th Anniversary, in 2019 for the 60th Anniversary and now in 2026, celebrating 45 years since there time at the Institute. Even after four and half decades, AIT still feels like home. The knowledge and experiences they gained shaped their careers, and much of their success stems from their time at the Institute. She also highlighted the lasting friendships they formed, saying they continue to see themselves as one family.
Also joining this batch reunion and homecoming were: Ramanan Balasubramanian (& Yogam), Toong San Chan, Supaporn Chotisukan, Allan Bruce Cotecson, Prayad Krongapiradee (& Porntip), Rasiah Loganantharaj (& Kanthi), Emerald (wife of Chung-Cheng Kao), Thanyapat Pattarasalintip, Tarkeshwar Shrimali, Ahmed Salman Siddiqi, Robianto Tanubrata, and Yupin Thairatananon (& Thawatchai). Representing AIT: Ms. Lucena D. Talaid, Senior Alumni Affairs Officer from the Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs (OAAA).
The group met with Dr. Sarawut Ninsawat, Dean of the Faculty of Technology, and Dr. Chantri Polprasert for a discussion and exchange of updates. They also visited the Computer Science Building, where they had the opportunity to reconnect with senior faculty members.
In addition, the alumni toured the AIT Library to see the latest facilities and resources available to students. The visit concluded with a meeting with the President of the AIT Alumni Association, strengthening ties between the alumni community.
