Rev. Sister Sandamali Kurera leaves St. Mary’s Convent Matara

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PRIYAN DE SILVA

Rev. Sister Sandamali Kurera, who served St Mary’s Convent Matara for over two decades as its Principal, has left the school to take up duties as Treasurer of the Sisters of Charity of Jesus and Mary.

The young Sandamali who hails from Chilaw had her primary education at St. Benedict’s College, Kanjukkuliya and was half way through her secondary education at Carmel Girls’ National College in Chilaw when she decided to dedicate her life to serve god as a sister of Charity of Jesus and Mary and was admitted to St. Mary’s Convent Matara to fullfill her dream.

Sister Sandamali completed her tertiary education at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura and took up teaching Economics at her alma mater immediately after graduation.

In addition to her teaching duties Sr. Sandamali was entrusted to help the Principal of St Mary’s Convent at the time Sr Marie Anne in her administrative duties.

In 2002, Sr. Sandamali succeeded Sr. Marie Ann as the Principal and guided the school for over two decades. Her capabilities were put to test when the 2004 tsunami devastated the Southern coast including St. Mary’s Convent. It was Sr Sandamali’s determination, dedication and diplomacy that helped rebuild St Mary’s to its present status.

To her students and staff Sr Sandamali is a dear friend who is ever ready to listen to and guide anyone who sought her help. She was known to be an excellent administrator who was firm and just in her decisions and even stern at times.

Rev. Sister Susima Fernando (Principal), staff, students, past pupils and well-wishers of St Mary’s Convent would gather today (27) to felicitate and bid farewell to Rev. Sandamali Kurera.