Footprints of Devians: Empowering young scholars
View(s):A special occasion that celebrates the history and chronicle of the school took place at the esteemed Dr. Wimala de Silva Auditorium, of the Devi Balika Vidyalaya, Colombo 08, bringing together school’s stake holders especially the young scholars who joined during the past two years.
The event started at 8:00 AM, with Mrs. Lilian Rathnayake as the guest of honor gracing the occasion. She is one of the remaining girls of the first group enrolled into the school when it is established in 1953. Although she kept her first foot when she was in grade 9, she is a living memory of the founder, Dr. Wimala de Silva. She was chosen because of her support for pioneering in preserving and archiving the history and traditions of our school.
Over three hundred participated in the event, including the school’s principal, Mrs. H.T.C.D.P Siriwardhana, who is highly respected for her leadership within a short period of taking over as the acting principal, members of the committee 23/24 of the Past Pupils’ Association (PPA), Members of the School Management Committee and Teachers and students from grades 6 and 7.
A booklet on history of Devi with a narrative “Siyapath Satahana” was presented to the young Devi scholars. This special collection of pictures, articles, and memorabilia brought the school’s history to life. Kalani Samandarapperuma, the Secretary of the Archives Subcommittee, ceremoniously presented the booklet on the illustrious history of Devi Balika to the Principal. Students who actively took part in the event received this booklet as a keepsake to remember 70 years of the schools’ history along with important documents on scholarship programmes and students support system offered by the PPA. One young recipient said “this is so memorable and I will cherish this forever” and we take this opportunity to thank all those who took the trouble including the Archives Sub-Committee, to collate this information from time to time and printing as a booklet.
Two motivational experience sharing narratives were delivered during the event that touched everyone’s heart. Prof. Meththika Vithanage, one of the Vice Presidents of DBPPA 23/24 who was an exemplary past pupil from Devi, engaged in a meaningful discussion about the pivotal leadership role and the path to achieving success for a better future. She further emphasised why the girls’ education is important and said “we always must help the society and to be selfless in common issues”. Ms. Lenika Darmarathna, the other Vice President shared her experiences, expressing how much the school meant to her and helped in shaping her as who she is and said “one can be proud of her mother and her school in the same manner. Chairperson of the Student Welfare and wellbeing Sub-committee of DBPPA 23/24 Dr. Piyumi Rathuwadu gave a brief on the provisions that gives by the PPA with the support from generous contributions and donations from our past pupils for the neediest students and invited participants to contact the PPA desk for further information. She did remember to thank the Committee, the Sub Committee members and all donors “said without whom there would not be a scholarship and student support programmes”.
The event served as a poignant reminder of the immense importance of preserving our rich history and cherished heritage. It became a day of jubilation, gratitude, and motivation, where the past and present united harmoniously, forging a path towards a brighter future. By cherishing these invaluable memories, the school ensures that its extraordinary journey will endure for generations to come, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of countless future students.
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