Inaugural batch of Royal College Panadura hosts felicitation ceremony for teachers
The Royal College, Panadura’s inaugural class of students from 1978 to 1990 recently held a special ceremony in honor of their teachers. The event, titled “Teachers’ Tribute,” was held on January 28 at the Saffron Beach Hotel in Wadduwa and brought together former students and teachers to celebrate and pay tribute to the educators who had a profound impact on their lives. The event coincided with the College’s 45th anniversary since its inception in 1978.
Royal College, Panadura was originally established as Janadipathy Vidyalaya, one of the President’s Colleges, during the UNP government’s term after they came into power in 1977. The President’s Colleges were a new initiative aimed at providing quality education throughout the country.
At its inception, Janadipathy Vidyalaya was housed in a single building belonging to the Panadura Urban Council called the “Noel Mendis Memorial Hall” named after the Chairman of the Urban Council of Panadura between 1950 and 1952. Over the years, the school has expanded exponentially and now occupies over 34 acres in Nalluruwa, Panadura. The school was renamed as Royal College, Panadura subsequently reflecting its growing reputation as one of the leading educational institutions in the area.
The event honoured all the teachers who taught the first batch of students of the school between 1978 and 1990. The past pupils also paid tribute to the four principals—three former and the current—who have made significant contributions towards elevating the school’s reputation. These dedicated educators have worked tirelessly to ensure the school’s success and continued growth over the years.
At the celebration, Brigadier (Rtd) Rangit P. Witana KSV, the founding Principal of Royal College, Panadura who served between 1978 to 1980 expressed his delight at the growth and success of the school. “It is with
great pleasure that I witness the treasured seed I planted in fertile soil grow into a thriving tree, offering comfort to all.”
Dr. Neville Fernando, a former MP for Panadura, played a crucial role in the establishment of the school. He worked closely with the Department of Education and other stakeholders to secure resources and necessary facilities. Mr. Godfrey R. Warnakulasuriya, the second Principal of Royal College, Panadura, who served from February 1981 to 1991, expressed his gratitude for his appointment to the school. “My appointment to the school was a coincidence but I am eternally grateful for it. Despite the numerous challenges, I was fortunate enough to have a dedicated staff and a supportive group of parents. I also received invaluable support and blessings from the former MP for Panadura, Mervyn J. Cooray.”
All four principals received a special memento each for their tireless and committed service to the school during their tenures. Additionally, every teacher was gifted with a framed portrait of themselves as a symbol of appreciation and affection from the school and its students.
The current principal, Mr. Pabasara Bandara, commented in his speech, “I am honoured to be a part of a school that has produced model citizens who express their gratitude to the teachers who guided them.”
A highlight of the celebration was the establishment of the “Royal Trailblazers,” a group comprised of all students who attended the inaugural class of Royal College, Panadura from 1978 to 1990. The formation was symbolically marked by the presentation of a ceremonial plaque to the four principals.