Zahira realises pool dream
Zahira College, one of the leading public schools in Sri Lanka, fulfilled its long-held dream of having a swimming pool on July 14. The Swimming Complex was ceremonially declared open by special guests, Al- Haj Desamanya M. T. A. Furkhan ( Chairman of Confifi Group) and Al- Haj M. H. Omar ( Founder of Brandix).
Desamanya M. T. A. Furkhan and M.H. Omar are distinguished Old Boys of Zahira College who have contributed in a big way and Manilal Fernando, the Chairman of Holcim is another great benefactor. Fernando was one of the three special invitees but due to unavoidable circumstances could not attend the event.
Zahira College was established in 1892 and is also celebrating its 120th anniversary this year. The opening of the swimming pool complex was a fitting occasion to coincide with their anniversary thus creating another historical event of the school. Zahira stands on a sprawling 11 acre land in the heart of Colombo with its majestically designed building facilities alongside the Maradana Mosque giving the ideal environment for an educational institution. The swimming pool is situated within the college premises, with its entrance on Darley Road.
The swimming pool complex was built at a cost of Rs. 98 million and has the ultra modern facility in a three- storey building. The main pool, which has eight lanes, is 25 metres long and six metres wide. The beginners’ pool is 15 metres long and six metres wide. The ground floor will house the washrooms, changing rooms and beginners’ changing rooms. The first floor will sport the main pool, spectators’ podium, beginners’ pool and the stores. The second floor will comprise a restaurant, a gymnasium and other indoor recreational facilities and the pool office. A basketball court and parking space for 24 vehicles is also available within the complex.
Zahira has a great history, starting with 35 students and growing to a 4600 student population today. It has produced many great personalities who have held high positions in their chosen fields.
The school provides education in the English, Sinhala and Tamil mediums and extracurricular activities such as cricket, football, rugby, hockey, swimming, athletics, scouting and cadetting. Zahira has excelled in all the sports at some time or the other bringing glorious wins and records to admire. The swimming pool complex is the biggest project undertaken by the Zahira College Old Boys Association, led by Fouzul Hameed, its president and the swimming pool project was led by Jisthy Fahmi, the vice president of OBA. (NA)