The Diamond Jubilee of Gothami Balika
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Principal Ms.D.A.Subhashini Dematagoda
Gothami Balika Vidyalaya in Colombo, which was established by “the pioneer of the free education”, Dr. C.W.W.Kannangara, celebrated its 75th anniversary on June 17.
Gothami Balika, founded on June 17, 1946, was first known as “The Government English School.” When the school began it only had 15 students, and three lady teachers along with the principal.
Today it is a popular girl’s schools in Colombo. Gladis Perera was the first principal, who served for eight years.Today, the school is headed by Subhashini Dematagoda, supported by nearly 150 efficient and qualified teachers. The school has more than three thousand students, from grade six to 13.
The school has had numerous achievements and many past pupils have shown their colours, not only in the country but also across world in leading sectors like medicine, engineering and education.
In terms of O/L and A/L results, Gothami Balika has become a leading school among other schools in the country.It has science, arts, commerce and the newly introduced technology streams for A/Ls. At present, the school management, academic and non-academic staff extend their fullest co-operation to direct the school towards success. The assistance from the School Development Executive Committee and the Old Girls’ Association has been paramount in the success of the school.
Gothamians collect awards in different sectors yearly. In 2017, the school Cadet Team brought home the Soyza Shield and was first runner up in Rantambe National Cadet training camp.Many awards had been taken by the students in All Island singing competitions and western band competitions. The school organises ‘Colours Night’ annually to appreciate the sports talents of students who achieved national and international awards. In 2018, the school achieved the best Annual Report in an Island wide competition organised by AAT Sri Lanka and the Education Ministry.
Even during the COVID situation, the school has a well scheduled and balanced studying process online. To get rid of the stress of being at home for many months, the school had an online Vesak celebration with a series of Dhamma Desana. The students had a great opportunity to show their skills and talents in Bakthi Gee and creating cards, lanterns, drawing, debating and photography.
On June 5, the school celebrated Environmental Day with the theme Haritha Viyamana. Veteran Artist Sathischandra Edirisinghe graced the event. It was highly appreciated by the Director of Central Environmental Authority for the Western Province.
The school will celebrate its anniversary online, this year. On June 9, breakfast and lunch was provided for patients at the Maharagama Apeksha Hospital, on June 15 a blood donation campaign was handled by the OGA at the Blood Bank in Narahenpita, on June 17 there was a Pirith ceremony hosted by the Jayamaga television channel and the school YouTube channel and there was also an exhibition to showcase the digital art skills of the students. All these were a part of the anniversary celebrations.