President renews calls for political unity to build new Sri Lanka

President Ranil Wickremesinghe 

• At centennial celebration of Royal College, admits political diversity in multi-party democracy
• Emphasises reverting to old practices in economics, education and politics is not an option
• Highlights Royal College’s role in producing leaders and scholars who significantly contributed to Sri Lanka’s development
• Pays tribute to alumni who made the ultimate sacrifice in wars, exemplifying unwavering commitment ingrained in Royal College ethos
• Stresses need for adapting to new technologies and sciences in addressing pressing global issues like climate change
• Calls for paradigm shift in school management to meet challenges of modern world in education
• Insists students and citizens to embrace change, innovation and progress amid an evolving world

President Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday renewed the call to action for embracing change and progress, resonating with a spirit of unity and a forward-looking vision to shape a new future for Sri Lanka.

Acknowledging the inherent political diversity in a multi-party democracy, the President requested politicians and citizens alike to come together for the collective good of the country.

Addressing an event held at Royal College, Colombo to mark ‘A century of educational excellence at Reid Avenue’, Wickremesinghe praised the distinguished quality of education provided by Sri Lanka’s schools, with a special mention to his alma mater, Royal College. 

The President emphasised that the present moment stands as a crucial turning point, where old paradigms face a critical juncture. 

He firmly stated that reverting to past practices in economics, education, and politics is not a viable option and called for a unified effort to forge a new path forward that aligns with the aspirations of the citizens.

Noting that the centennial celebration at Reid Avenue was not merely a reflection of time passed, he said it was a call to embrace change and progress, resonating with the spirit of unity and forward-looking vision all to adopt. 

Wickremesinghe also highlighted the rigorous A-Level curriculum, known for nurturing exceptional students while maintaining high academic standards. 

President stressed the importance of not only commemorating a century-old institution but also embracing change, innovation, and progress. He urged students and citizens to look towards the future, acknowledging the evolving landscape of education and the changing world. 

Hinting at forthcoming changes in education, Wickremesinghe suggested a paradigm shift in school management to meet the challenges of the modern world. He underscored the need for adapting to new technologies and sciences, especially in addressing pressing global issues like climate change.

Tracing the illustrious journey of Royal College, the President underscored its pivotal role in producing leaders and scholars who have made substantial contributions to Sri Lanka’s development. 

He highlighted the institution’s commitment to character development, paying tribute to alumni who made the ultimate sacrifice in wars. Wickremesinghe also paid tribute to Major General Fernando and Brigadier Jayatilaka, exemplifying unwavering commitment by holding their position at Elephant Pass despite orders to withdraw. Their sacrifice mirrors the resolute spirit ingrained in the Royal College ethos. 

In recognition of the President’s presence, Royal College Principal Thilak Waththuhewa presented a commemorative memento, with Head Prefect Baskaran Yuganan also in attendance. 

Additionally, a special book commemorating this prestigious occasion was presented to the President by the two editors of the book.

Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Education Minister Susil Premajayath, State Minister of Finance Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, as well as MPs Lakshman Kiriella, Gayantha Karunathilake, M. A. Sumanthiran, Rauff Hakeem, Eran Wickremeratne, Dr. Harsha de Silva, C. V. Wigneswaran, Yadamini Gunawardena and Dr. Kavinda Jayawardhana attended the event.