Among the great men produced by a hallowed institution, he stood taller than the rest.
Mr. Viji Weerasinghe, former Deputy Principal of Royal College, Colombo, and one of the greatest Royalists ever (if not the greatest), was a rare and exemplary individual.
Viji had the rare distinction of being closely associated with Royal College for a record 73 years. During this span he played many roles, from schoolboy to teacher and deputy principal and finally as adviser to the Royal College Union.
Most old boys, as they step out of the Boake gates, move on, leaving the school far behind as they enter the real world and get on with their lives and careers. Mr. Viji devoted all his time and energies towards his alma mater. The college was his, and helping to maintain it became a full-time job.
His vision forged Royal College anew, fusing old and new, time-honored traditions and experiences with new briefs and trends.
Some might wonder why he was so involved in the school’s daily activities even during his last days. Aged and rather feeble, he still came to office, never a minute late; never a day missed.
The immense importance of his role in the life of the school should not escape mention. His hand guided many a policy of school administration. The number of principals, deputy principals and teachers who drew wisdom and inspiration from him is too great to mention. He was the link between school and authority and the union, and both sides gained immensely from his patient mentoring.
He possessed a wealth of knowledge relating to Royal College. Having been an integral part of the school for more than 70 years, and having witnessed so much, one could always rely on him to provide an answer to a pressing problem or extend a helping hand and offer truly worthy advice. This ensured that his office was never empty.
Looking back, we smile as we reminisce on all that was great and good about him. It cannot fail to stab our hearts with pain to know that never again will we behold his angelic smile and hear his words of courage and hope.
We really miss your presence, as there is no one else who can advise us on Royal College or Royal College Union matters as you did.
Yet our memories of you and what we learnt from you will last a lifetime, and more.
Sir, your spirit will never leave your eternal home.
Rizan Nazeer,Secretary, Royal College Union |
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