Humble Beginnings
Dr. Eregowda G.B. was born in Gangasamudra, a small village in Nagamangala Taluk, Mandya district. Growing up in a family where his parents were uneducated and resources were scarce, the odds were stacked against him. Yet, even in these modest conditions, his family encouraged his studies by ensuring he always had books and basic needs. He often recalls that until Class 10, he didn’t even own a pair of slippers—yet that never stopped him from dreaming bigger.

Guidance and Determination
His journey took a transformative turn under the guidance of Sri Sri Balagangadharanatha Mahaswamiji of Adichunchanagiri Mutt. Along with discipline, he developed resilience and a strong purpose. Interestingly, a challenge from his chemistry lecturer motivated him to work harder in the subject. What began as a weakness became his greatest strength—he went on to top his class in B.Sc., secure a distinction in his Master’s degree, and complete a Ph.D. with government funding.

Shaping Young Minds
In 1997, Dr. Eregowda cleared the Karnataka Public Service Commission exam and began serving as a government PU college chemistry lecturer. Over his 28 years in service, he transformed institutions wherever he went. At Battalahalli, he personally enrolled 80 students in science when the college had none. Later, at Yelahanka Government PU College, he built a thriving science stream with nearly 3,000 students every year. His goal was simple yet powerful—help students secure free MBBS seats directly from government colleges.

Author and Mentor
When some critics dismissed Bengaluru lecturers as “mere reciters,” Dr. Eregowda took it as a challenge and began writing his own textbooks. With the constant support of his wife, who stood by him during late-night writing sessions, he eventually authored chemistry books that today reach over a lakh students across Karnataka annually. What started with financial struggles soon became a success story that continues to guide both students and teachers.

Jeevith Education Trust
After voluntary retirement, Dr. Eregowda founded the Jeevith Education Trust—named after his son. This initiative was born out of his desire to directly support underprivileged students. In its very first batch, 16 out of 32 students achieved free medical seats, a remarkable 50% success rate. This achievement reflects his lifelong mission: transforming lives through knowledge.

Beyond Teaching: Research & Service
Alongside teaching, Dr. Eregowda worked on research projects with Prof. K.N. Thimmaiah, discovering 21 new organic compounds and publishing in international journals. His expertise also earned him a role as Scientific Officer at the Adichunchanagiri Cancer Research Center. For him, research and teaching go hand in hand—one enriches the other.

His Philosophy
Dr. Eregowda’s teaching style is rooted in discipline and application-based learning, often aligned with NCERT principles. He strongly advises parents not to push every child into medicine, but to instead recognize each student’s capacity and aspirations. His guidance has even directed some bright minds toward civil services through a science background.

Awards and Recognition
His extraordinary career has been celebrated with numerous awards: – State Best Lecturer Award (2016) – Aryabhata International Award – Sangama Ratna Award – Siddaganga Shri Award – Dr. Abdul Kalam Lifetime Achievement Award – VK & BM Education Excellence Award presented by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi

Looking Ahead
Even after decades of service, Dr. Eregowda continues to dream. His next goal is to author a book on the changing face of education in Karnataka, shaped by his experiences and students’ voices. In his own words, “Research is not only done in laboratories. I continue to do it through teaching.”

Final Note
As someone who has personally witnessed his journey and contribution to education, I, Mr. Girish, take immense pride in presenting this blog on behalf of Jeevith PU College. Dr. Eregowda G.B. is not just an educationist—he is an inspiration whose story reminds us that resilience, vision, and dedication can turn challenges into stepping stones for greatness.

References & Credits
Indian Express: From a barefoot Karnataka village boy to an educationist and social worker: How Dr. Eregowda is transforming lives with knowledge: