RUZAIK FAROOK
COLOMBO :Richmond College, Galle, one of Sri Lanka’s most prestigious and distinguished educational institutions, has chalked out a year long eventful programmes to commemorate its 150 years of academic excellence and dedicated service to the nation.
A media briefing to mark this historic milestone was recently held at Olympic House in Colombo. Addressing the gathering, Principal of the College Prabath Withanage outlined the extensive programme of events planned to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the college.
The year-long commemorative calendar features a wide range of activities, including the 150th Anniversary Walk, an exhibition, the Grand Prize Giving, the C.W.W. Kannangara Oration, the Richmond 150th Anniversary Dinner Dance, a magazine launch, the unveiling of a statue of the founder of the college Rev. George Baugh, a mega carnival, and the launch of the official 150th anniversary logo and commemorative coin, among many other events. Principal Withanage extended an open invitation to all Richmond College old boys to participate in the anniversary walk and other celebrations.
Also addressing the media were Richmond College Old Boys’ Association Secretary Srimal Wijesekara, Organising Committee Chairman Anil Fonseka, School Development Society Secretary Udara Alles, former Principal and OBA Chief Patron B. Suriarachchi, and Deputy Patrons Dr. Hemakumara Nanayakkara and Sujeewa Rajapakse.
Founded in May 1876 on the picturesque heights of Richmond Hill as Galle High School, the institution was officially renamed Richmond College in 1882 following a historic resolution by its founding body, the Methodist Church. Rev. George Baugh, a senior Methodist missionary, is recognised as the founding father of the college, while Rev. Samuel Langdon served as its first Principal.
To commemorate this landmark anniversary, the students, staff, School Development Society, and the Old Boys’ Association have jointly conceptualised an ambitious programme comprising more than 150 projects and events. Spanning from 2025 through the end of 2026, these initiatives are being implemented on a grand scale with the aim of further strengthening the proud legacy of the college as it enters its next chapter of history.
