Entrepreneurial journey of a philanthropist
Dr. Geevarghese Yohannan:
A Luminary in Education, Philanthropy, and Entrepreneurship
Dr. Geevarghese Yohannan’s life story is defined by a profound commitment to education, philanthropy, and entrepreneurship. Born on February 3, 1948 in Nellikunnam, Kottarakara, Kerala, India, into an Indian Orthodox Christian family, his early years were shaped by the values of service and dedication instilled by his father, Yohannan Geevarghese – principles he continues to uphold to this day.
After completing his BSc from Kerala University, Dr. Geevarghese began his career as an Accountant at Federal Bank in Kerala, where he worked from 1971 to 1973. His aspirations soon led him to the Sultanate of Oman, where he joined Oman Engineering & Contracting Co. as an accountant in 1973. Over the next 33 years, his dedication and leadership propelled him to the topmost position as its Managing Director.
Simultaneously, in 1984, Dr. Geevarghese ventured into entrepreneurship by founding Nadan Trading L.L.C., focusing on trading and construction. Under his visionary leadership, Nadan Trading became a thriving business entity, employing thousands across Oman, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, with an annual turnover exceeding USD 65 million.
Dr. Geevarghese’s passion for education found its expression in 1994, when he established his first educational institution, Mar Gregorios Memorial (MGM), in his native place, Kottarakara. Over the last three decades, he has made significant contributions to the education sector in India, establishing 11 CBSE-affiliated schools and several colleges across Kerala, including pharmacy, polytechnic, and engineering colleges. Today, the MGM Group oversees 11 colleges and 12 schools, educating over 22,500 students with the support of more than 1,750 teaching and administrative staff.
Guided by the motto “No Donation, No Capitation,” Dr. Geevarghese ensures that MGM institutions remain accessible to all, regardless of gender, caste, or creed. Scholarships are provided to meritorious students and those from cancer-affected families. Initiatives like ‘Vidyamruthum’, in collaboration with the Care and Share Foundation under Padmashree Mammootty’s patronage, provide full scholarships to 250 students pursuing professional courses.
Dr. Geevarghese’s contributions have been recognized through numerous awards, including the Kalakendram Award (2004, 2007), Jawaharlal Nehru Award for Best Industrialist (2005), and Pravasi Sarvashiksha Samman (2008). His leadership in the Middle East was acknowledged with the Indian Super 100 business leaders award in 2011. Further, he was conferred with the Vidya Ratnam Award (2013) and the Honorary Doctorate of Education Management by the Academy of Universal Global Peace, New York, in 2018.
Dr. Geevarghese’s Contributions and Awards
Dr. Geevarghese has been recognized for his outstanding contributions through numerous prestigious awards:
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Kalakendram Award (2004, 2007)
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Jawaharlal Nehru Award for Best Industrialist (2005)
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Pravasi Sarvashiksha Samman (2008)
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Indian Super 100 Business Leaders Award (2011)
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Vidya Ratnam Award (2013)
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Honorary Doctorate of Education Management by the Academy of Universal Global Peace, New York (2018)
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Mahatma Gandhi Excellence Award (2018-19)
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International Business Leadership Excellence Award (2019)
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Indo-Russian International Award (2023)
Dr. Geevarghese Yohannan’s philanthropic efforts are as extensive as his contributions to education. He serves as the Vice-Chairman of the Care & Share Charity Foundation. The foundation aids low-income families in Kerala, providing financial assistance for cardiac surgeries, kidney transplants, and more.
His commitment to social causes extends to various initiatives, such as the ‘Vidyamritham’ scholarship programme, supporting students in engineering, polytechnic, and pharmaceutical courses. Through the Geevarghese Yohannan Charitable Trust, he has provided monthly pensions to 220 poor and physically challenged individuals and constructed homes for flood victims in Kerala. His contributions to cancer patient treatment and support for various social charity organizations both in India and abroad further underscore his deep commitment to humanitarian causes.
Drawing inspiration from Saint Gregorios, Dr. Geevarghese Yohannan’s vision for MGM Educational Institutions is to provide value-based education rooted in Indian ethos while embracing modern teaching technologies and global perspectives. His mission is to develop MGM Institutions into centers of excellence, molding globally competent professionals with refined attitudes and leadership qualities.
“For the last three decades, we have provided high-quality international-level education facilities to students in Kerala. MGM Educational Institutions have experienced continuous progress thanks to our commitment to educational excellence. Our mission continues to drive our growth and progress, building on strong foundations,” says the visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist with great pride.
His legacy is one of dedication, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting society for which education and philanthropy are his tools, making Dr. Geevarghese Yohannan a true visionary and leader in every sense.
Dr. Geevarghese is married to Mrs. Jainamma Yohannan, who is his strength in all his endeavours. They are blessed with three daughters and a son, all of whom are well-settled in their respective careers. A proud grandfather of twelve grandchildren, Dr. Geevarghese’s family continues to reflect his values of education and service.
