‘Illuminating Excellence Longevity Awards 2023’
In the realm of education, OKI International School proudly cherishes 25 years of imparting knowledge, and shaping the future generation of our Nation, not only focusing on producing professionals but engraving in the hearts and minds of children under their care, the need to become responsible citizens of Mother Lanka.
In this backdrop, OKI celebrated the commitment of the members of its staff, both academic and nonacademic, who have worked together side by side contributing immensely to the journey of education, molding young minds over the last 25 years. The event was held on Saturday, 18th November 2023 at Clovers Banquet Hall, Kelaniya, under the theme ‘Illuminating Excellence Longevity Awards 2023,’ with the blessings of its Chairperson, Mrs. Nirmalee Saparamadu, the lady behind the success story of OKI, who has been there alongside, the Founder Chairman, from the very beginning and continues to be a tower of strength to the OKI family. The dignified presence of its Directress, Ms. Denum Abeysekera, Consultant, Mr. Channa Gunawardena, members of the Executive Committee, and employees both present and those who had served in the past added colour to the event.
Delivering her welcome address, Mrs. Abeysekera said, “I stand here with a true sense of pride to acknowledge that in our collective odyssey, the bedrock of OKI, has been our esteemed academic members and our cherished teachers. The role of teachers is universally acknowledged and revered, for they impart not only knowledge but also invaluable life skills that shape and mould young individuals to become not just respected professionals but fully human persons.”
The Directress also acknowledged the non-academic staff within the school network. Speaking further, she said, “They carve a path and play an instrumental role in facilitating the academic operation of OKI. As the Directress, I am eternally grateful for your tireless contributions.”
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of appreciation awards in the Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum and Diamond categories. OKI recognizes the fact that behind the dedication and commitment of each staff member, also lies the need for appreciation and recognition, which ignites every member within the OKI family, no matter which level of staff they belong to, to go above and beyond their call of duty. In this light, the Diamond Award was presented to Mr. P.T. Yogaraja from the Maintenance Department, for his dedicated service of 25 unwavering years. The award was presented by Madam Denum Abeysekera, Directress and Coordinating Principal, accompanied by Maj. Gen. Athula Galagamage (Retd.), Chief Administration Officer, Mr. Chaminda Wickremasuriya, Head of Academic Operations, Mr. Anthony Alwis, Head of Examinations and Mr. Isuru Rangana, Head of Finance. The audience also witnessed the proud moments as teachers and members of the non-academic departments walked away with their prestigious accolades. Among the award winners were 10 recipients who walked away with Platinum awards, 24 of them with Gold, 64 recipients with Silver awards and 108 of them with Bronze awards. The presentation of awards based on longevity was awarded to all employees who have served in the school for more than 05 years.
Beyond honoring current educators, the felicitation ceremony also served as a platform to inspire aspiring teachers, showcasing teaching as a dynamic and fulfilling career, encouraging young minds to embrace the noble calling of being educationists, which is not just a profession, but a vocation.
For OKI the felicitation ceremony was not just about individual accomplishments; it was a celebration of the collective strength of the OKI family. The glamor of the evening was concluded with fellowship, celebrating a spirit of togetherness, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual support, reflecting the values that OKI stands for.