Media Release
Mangaluru, Feb 5: The journey of a teacher is often paved with dedication, resilience, and the pursuit of knowledge. The story of Dr S M Riha Parvin, currently an assistant professor at the Yenepoya Research Centre for Finance and Entrepreneurship Development (YEN-REFINED), YIASCM, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru, stands as a testament to unwavering determination and passion for academic excellence.
Born into a humble background, Dr Riha Parvin spent her early years in Brahmavar, living with her grandmother, Bibi Jaan, and her uncle, Akber Ali, along with his family in Honnala, until completing her 10th standard. She completed her primary education at Government Urdu Higher Primary School, Honnala, Brahmavar, Udupi district, and later pursued her high school education at SMSPU College, Brahmavar, Udupi. The eldest of three daughters, she was raised in a close-knit family where education was always valued. Her father, S M Rafiq, a driver, and her mother, Haseena Banu, a homemaker, bore the financial burden of her education, ensuring she received every opportunity to succeed.
With an innate passion for learning, Dr Riha pursued her Pre-University Course (PUC) in Commerce at St Agnes PU College, Mangaluru, followed by a BCom in finance from St Agnes College (Autonomous), Mangaluru. She further pursued her MCom (finance) from St Agnes Centre for Postgraduate Studies and Research, Mangaluru, affiliated with Mangalore University. Demonstrating academic excellence, she cleared K-SET and NET examinations, paving the way for a career in academics. She recently defended her PhD viva and was awarded a doctorate from Srinivas University under the esteemed guidance of Dr Niyaz Panakaje and Dr Narayan Kayarkatte.
Reflecting on her journey, Dr Riha acknowledges the pivotal role of her research supervisors, Dr Niyaz Panakaje and Dr Narayan Kayarkatte, in shaping her academic path. She also expresses profound gratitude to her research guide, Dr Niyaz Panakaje, whose life story—rising from financial hardship, selling fish, digging wells, and driving an auto to complete his education—has been a beacon of inspiration for her. "Dr Niyaz Panakaje’s vision of empowering women and the underprivileged resonated deeply with me. Coming from a similar background, his unwavering commitment to education and resilience in overcoming adversities motivated me to pursue my PhD His mentorship has not only guided my research but also shaped my perspective on academic excellence and social impact," she remarked.
Her doctoral journey was not just an academic endeavour but a testament to her perseverance and familial support. Her father stood by her side throughout her research journey, even during Ramadan, accompanying her to every data collection site. His words of wisdom "Those who have faith and righteousness will always have a remarkable journey and destination" became her guiding philosophy. Expressing deep appreciation for her mother, Haseena Banu, Dr Riha acknowledges the silent sacrifices and unwavering encouragement that helped her navigate the rigorous demands of research. She also credits her two sisters, Niha and Ayesha Zuha, for their constant motivation and support.
Committed to advancing knowledge, Dr Riha has contributed significantly to academic research, publishing in Scopus, Web of Science (WoS), ABDC, and UGC Care Listed journals, including Q1, Q2, and ABDC-B and C categories. She has published a total of 21 research papers, of which 17 are indexed in Scopus and Web of Science, 2 are in the ABDC-B category, and 2 are in the ABDC-C category. She is handling the core area of behavioural finance under YEN-REFINED with numerous research projects and activities.
She has presented papers at national and international conferences, earning multiple Best Paper Awards. She also serves as a reviewer for reputed publishers such as Taylor & Francis, Springer, and Emerald. Her research expertise includes bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer, data analysis using SPSS and AMOS, research methodology, and scale development. She has conducted various workshops at state and national levels, sharing her knowledge with aspiring scholars.
With a firm belief that education is the most powerful tool for transformation, Dr Riha envisions contributing towards financial literacy, social inclusion, and empowerment through academic research. "I hope to inspire and create opportunities for those who come from underprivileged backgrounds, especially women. Education has the power to transform lives, and I want to be a part of that journey for others," she concluded.
From a small town to the corridors of academia, Dr S M Riha Parvin’s story is one of perseverance, gratitude, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge - a beacon of inspiration for many aspiring scholars.