In what has become one of the distressing losses due to COVID-19, reputed educationalist and former Vice-Chancellor of Anna University M Anandakrishnan has passed away due to the pandemic on Friday in Chennai at the age of 93. Anandakrishnan was better known as an educational reformer and his unparalleled contribution towards education can be realized beyond the borders.

Some of his significant contributions towards education include revoking entrance exams for admission to professional courses and introducing Tamil as a medium for technical education. He was one of the pivotal figures in the Tamil Nadu Education system who deeply cared and worked towards ensuring 'Education for All'. As the Vice-Chancellor of Anna University, a top engineering varsity in the state, Anandakrishnan has left an unblemished mark in office.

During former Chief Minister Karunanidhi's rule in the state, a decade ago, Anandakrishnan had led a committee, and based on the recommendation of his committee, the state government repealed the entrance examination for professional courses. The Central government has honoured Anandakrishnan's service and contribution by bestowing the Padma Shri award, one of the nation's highest civilian honours, to him. 

Anandakrishnan has also served as the former Chairman, Board of Governors, IIT Kanpur and he was proposed as a senate nominee to the panel entrusted with finding a Vice-Chancellor for the Madras University last year. Recently, he had tested positive for the COVID-19 viral infection and he was getting treated at a private hospital in Chennai. Despite the treatment, Anandakrishnan had breathed his last on Friday at the age of 93 due to the pandemic. 

Ever since the news of his demise broke out, several leaders and notable people are paying their tributes to the deceased educationalist and expressing condolences to the family members. In her tribute note, DMK MP Kanimozhi said, "It's deeply saddening to hear about the death of Anandakrishnan, who was the former VC of Anna University and Former Chairman of IIT Kanpur. He is a man much respected by Kalaignar Karunanidhi. I extend my condolences to his family and friends." Anandakrishnan was also an advisor to the Government of Tamil Nadu on Information Technology and e-Governance. The deceased educationalist was survived by his wife and four sons.