University of Ceylon Peradeniya, the first university in Sri Lanka has a special place in our history. It was a towering symbol of education during the immediate post-independence era. It was looked upon as the first and the best in keeping with its mission.
The person behind this supreme gift to this paradise isle, making it so was, Sir Ivor Jennings, the founder Vice-Chancellor an intellectual genius in the academic world. Though it was during the colonial era that the start was given it thus began, leading to the emergence of Peradeniya as a university of world standing. This university sprang to life and achieved world fame with Jennings.
Those who entered the most esteemed institution when it was at the peak of glory and fame are now distinguished senior citizens who with their superior performance have done wonders here and abroad. They are a good example to the present undergraduates who have to step into their shoes to serve the country. From the early batches there is quite a number who have left us permanently but they are very much alive in the hearts of those living today. University memories linger in the hearts of thousands living today. No matter what the present position is, the university then was getting us on track to face life’s challenges. They became educated citizens worthy to fulfil the needs of the motherland, which they performed to the very letter.
Enchanting beauty
 |
| University fancy dress parade 1956 |
Going back to the location and scenic beauty nothing could be held equivalent in the entire globe. So beautiful was the environment and the chain of buildings that it demonstrates the calibre of the pioneer and the architects who handled it.
The residential halls were well spaced and constructed on mini hill tops. Marrs, Jayatilleke Pieris, Sanghamitta, Hilda and Ramanathan are few such halls. The Lodge, the highest abode was on a central spot. The lecturer’s quarters were at Mahakanda along Galaha road.
The other places of importance - the Arts Theatre, the Senate building, massive Gymnasium the library and the spacious lecture rooms were designed to provide the ideal setting for academic achievements.
Peradeniya as the residential university, the first of its kind was created for the intelligentsia bent on learning with one name in their lives – getting out with brilliant academic achievement worthy of a rewarding career and refinement in life. Indiscipline or instability was unheard of, instead there was perfect peace and harmony which they could be proud of reminiscing even today. This is really meant for them to refresh their memories. This brings to light the early events in their lives. The then students enjoyed the fruits of education with the simple way of life followed by them.
It was, when it was at the height of her glory that the group 56 was blessed with their admission to the university. Enchanted by the scenic beauty and encouraged by the serene atmosphere, they settled down and devoted their time to studies enjoying all the benefits. It was hard work filled with joy. Feeling of time meaningfully and well spent was in their minds when they departed after graduation. I am sure they still have pleasant recollections of their stay at Peradeniya.
Grand occasion
Now back to the grand occasion. Thanks to Somasundaram, the key negotiator popularly and affectionately known as Jolly who sent a rallying call to the batch mates of 56 and played a key role in getting the group 56 together.
The trip to Peradeniya from Colombo was quite a success. It gave great pleasure to think of the glorious past. The day was packed with commemorative events. There were a few items to keep the guests entertained, a sing-song party etc. Later we returned gazing at the Mahaweli till it disappeared.
The other most remarkable event to mark the occasion was the souvenir “And quietly flows the Mahaweli” dedicated to the then Vice Chancellor, Sir Nicholas Attygalle. It exclusively deals with the nostalgic memories, reminiscences and the interesting episodes of the 1956 entrants.
The University of Ceylon, Peradeniya, the oldest, largest and the most well-known with its glorious past, did everything quite successfully in its own way setting an example to the subsequent universities which were to come up later. It still remains as the most important and the highest centre of learning in Mother Lanka.
Add new comment