University of West Alabama – Sona Star International Pathway Programme: Student Interaction & Academic Collaboration
October 8, 2026
By SCALE Author
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Good partnerships grow through conversations, collaboration and shared goals.
This week, the University of West Alabama and Sona Star came together across Sona College of Technology, Dayananda Sagar University, SSMRV College and Sona Towers for a series of insightful student interactions around the SonaUWA 1+1 International Pathway Programme in MS in Data Science.
Addressing the audience at Sona Towers, Mr. Thyagu Valliappa, CEO and Founder of SCALE, shared how the idea took shape and the intent behind it: to support every learner at each step and bring a first-of-its-kind initiative to life.
Adding to the conversations, Dr. Mark Davis, Dean of International Programs, and Dr. Akali Fulmer, International Admissions & Recruitment Advisor, engaged with students one-on-one, offering guidance, answering questions and sharing insights into the learning journey and opportunities ahead.
The event also welcomed Prof.B. Ramesh, Vice Chancellor of Dr. Manmohan Singh Bengaluru City University (BCU), as a keynote speaker. His presence reflected the growing academic collaboration between the institutions, building on an MoU signed earlier. He was accompanied by Dr. Ritika Sinha, Director of School of Management, and Dr. Thandava Gowda, Associate Professor of English, BCU.
Representing Sona Star, Dr. Venugopal, Vice President, and Dr. Sheelan Misra, Dean, International Marketing, brought energy and perspective to the sessions, creating a space for students to engage and explore what this route could mean for their future.
One programme. Two countries. And a room full of possibilities.
