STC Matale celebrates its 150th anniversary today

St. Thomas’ College, Matale, is celebrating its 150th anniversary today (10). The formal celebration ceremony will be held on Sunday (13) at 10:00 am at the school premises, said a press release issued by the school.

It said that the event would be graced by President Ranil Wickremesinghe as the Chief Guest, and Education Minister Susil Premajayantha would also be in attendance.

Established in 1873, under the church, the school’s inaugural class included 75 boys and 12 girls. In 1876, Rev. Fr. Aloysius J. M. Marrer divided the school into separate boys’ and girls’ schools. St. Thomas’ College became a government controlled institution in 1962. Currently, the school accommodates over 2,700 students, supported by more than 150 academic and non-academic staff members, under the leadership of Principal Dammika Hewawasam. Throughout the years, the college has consistently produced top-ranking students in GCE A/L examinations, across various streams. St. Thomas’ College, Matale, has also gained renown for its prowess in hockey, having clinched the all-island title on multiple occasions. Distinguished alumni, currently serving in prominent positions, including Prime Minister’s Secretary Anura Dissanayake, Chief of Defence Staff General Shavendra Silva, and President of BASL Kaushalya Nawarathne, will also be participating in the main event on Sunday. Beyond the main Old Boys’ Association in Matale, St. Thomas’ College boasts Old Boys’ Association branches in Kandy, Colombo, the UK, and Australia. The school warmly invites all former Thomians to join in the main event, and further details can be obtained by contacting 066 222 2523.