2 November 2026 – Dr. P. V. S. Shastry, who had been serving as the Secretary of Maharshi Karve Stree Shikshan Samstha (MKSSS) for the past 11 years, retired at the end of October. Shri. Kedar Kapare, who had earlier joined MKSSS as Additional Secretary, formally assumed charge as the new Secretary of the institution with effect from 1st November 2026.
Dr. P. V. S. Shastry had been serving as the Secretary of MKSSS since August 2015. Earlier in his career, he held various positions at the institution's Cummins College of Engineering for Women, including Professor, Head of Department, Vice-Principal and Acting Principal. During his tenure as Secretary, he made valuable contributions to the establishment, development and enhancement of the quality of MKSSS's various branches. In recognition of his significant contributions, MKSSS family organised a farewell function in his honour on 27th October, which was attended by a large gathering of members of the Governing Board, office-bearers and employees of the institution.
The newly appointed Secretary, Shri. Kedar Kapare, holds a postgraduate degree in Commerce and brings with him approximately 30 years of experience in the financial sector. He has held key positions in reputed companies such as Atlas Copco Ltd., Tata Johnson Controls Automotive Ltd. and KPIT Cummins. In addition, he has considerable experience in various social initiatives and activities.
At the farewell function held prior to his assuming office, Shri. Kedar Kapare paid tribute to Dr. Shastry's contribution, stating, "Dr. Shastry's successful tenure at MKSSS was founded on three guiding principles – dedication, discipline and consistency. It is now our responsibility to carry forward this legacy of commitment and service." Through these words, he not only acknowledged Dr. Shastry's achievements but also outlined the direction and approach he intends to pursue in his new role.
As Shri. Kedar Kapare takes on the responsibility of serving as Secretary of Maharshi Karve Stree Shikshan Samstha, an institution carrying forward the legacy of Bharat Ratna Maharshi Dhondo Keshav Karve, with a history spanning 130 years, over 75 branches and more than 35,000 girl students, he has received warm congratulations and best wishes from the Governing Board, donors, well-wishers and employees of the institution.