Royal college history

With a rich history dating back to the year 1835, Royal College, Colombo has ingrained itself in the annals of Sri Lankan history as the premier provider of primary and secondary education.

The educational achievements of this noble house of learning are also to be combined with meritorious feats achieved in co-curricular and extra-curricular activities.

A poignant legacy of continued educational excellence coupled with supremacy in practically every sport has ensured the evolvement of Royal College, Colombo as the island’s foremost educational destination.It is in this vein that the Royal College Union has set out an extensive and comprehensive plan of action to mark 175 years of dedicated service to the nation.Religious services to bless the College, will be held across all secular divisions beginning with an all-night pirith chanting that will take place on February 9, followed by a mid day almsgiving the following day.

February 11 will see the Bambalapitiya Sri Mannika Vinayagar Kovil and the school premises being at the forefront of Hindu religious offerings and blessings, whilst a Christian thanksgiving service will take place at the College premises on February 15. Islamic religious activities will be conducted at the Devatagaha mosque and subsequently at the Navarangahala on February 10.

The highlight of the year long festivities, will be a special General Assembly that will take place on February 23 under the auspices of President Rajapaksa who will be the Chief Guest. This event will also be attended by dignitaries, the entire student population, the full complement of the academic staff, management and members of the Royal College Union.February will also see a special commemorative ‘first day cover’ and stamp being issued by the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunication with the special assistance of the Postmaster General. This 175th anniversary stamp issue is a historical moment in Sri Lanka as it is the first time a stamp has been designed by school students.The key celebrative event organised will be the Royal Parade (walk) in July. To add a touch of glamour to this memorable and colourful parade, a musical show is being organised to bring a close to the day, in which the ‘mega’ raffle draw will also be launched.Principal of Royal College Upali Gunasekara said, “It is indeed a pleasure and privilege for me to be at the spearhead of Royal College as it celebrates 175 years of achievements.