150th anniversary

Celebration

Message from the President of the Methodist Church Sri Lanka

The Methodist Church Sri Lanka from its inception in 1814 had pioneered education in the country by establishing nearly 180 schools throughout the Country, all of which were handed over to the state in the sixties, except two colleges. Wesley College remains the only boy’s school in the Country under its management and has made a great contribution to our nation by producing great leaders of our nation.
In today’s digital world, a school’s website is expected to reflect its values, achievements, and community spirit. A well-designed website acts as a dynamic gateway, offering insight into the institution and setting the tone for prospective families, students, and staff. We need to always remember that our key investments and resources are the student given to our care and be always focused on the children. It is the principal of the service rendered by the Church. Our hope and prayer are that Wesley will become a reality and we call upon everyone associated with Wesley to rally around in this progressive march of Wesley College.
Our church is very proud of the services that Wesley College continues to render and the Methodist Church Sri Lanka will continue to support and uphold the work of Wesley College, Colombo.

Rev. Kingsley Weerasinghe
President
METHODIST CHUCH SRI LANKA

Principal’s Message

Wesley College, Colombo which was established in 1874 has the distinction of producing leading pioneers in Sri Lanka. With the objective of supporting the education system of Sri Lanka – then called Ceylon, the Methodist missionaries established schools throughout the island which of course was an immense contribution of the field of education in our country.
We remain grateful to the missionaries of the Methodist Church for having tirelessly labored in providing an atmosphere of tranquility and understanding for the students of Wesley College so that on leaving the school, the boys are able to face the struggles of the wider world with courage andfortitude. No doubt the labours of Rev. Daniel Henry Pereira, has nurtured a rich crop of which we in this present age are beneficiaries and we are sure this harvest will be reaped by generations yetunborn. We remember with gratitude the commitment of Rev. Henry Highfield who saw the need for a quieter surrounding and further expansion, moved the College from Dam Street, Pettah to its present site. Despite numerous difficulties, he took the initiative to establish this school. We are grateful to God who has been the cornerstone of this School from its inception and has enabled the management to move on with a solid vision.
Having produced brilliant Men of Grit across the wide spectrum of society over its history, such as Mr M. A. M. Sheriff – the First Ceylonese to win the Athletics Blue at Oxford University, Mr Mahadevan Sathasivam – First in the world to captain two countries in Cricket (Malaysia and Ceylon)
The Vision of Wesley College has been to be the premier Christian secondary educational institute and produce men of stature and integrity to be leaders in the technologically advancing environment, while the Mission has always been focusing on inculcating Christian values and providing opportunities to develop latent potential and skills. At present we have more than 3000 students from all ethnic and religious groups and we aim at enabling each child to reach their full potential by fostering self esteem, discipline, integrity and respect.
As we prepare ourselves to celebrate God’s faithfulness which has carried us thus far, we look forward with great anticipation & thanksgiving to celebrate the 150th year in 2024. As the Principal, I feel honoured and privileged to lead this prestigious College which is about to celebrate a milestone. From the time of its inception, Wesley is renowned for its value based education and integral formation. 150 years of providing a stable and supportive environment for the students to learn would not have been an easy task if not for the faithful guidance of God and Him alone.
Throughout these years we have grown to nearly 3000 students with 200 members of staff including two Primary schools running at both Havelock Town & Tampola. Our dedicated staff has always ensured that the students are provided with an appropriate learning atmosphere and that the children are developed holistically. We have always ensured that when our boys go outside the walls of school life, they are relentless and have the audacity and commitment to always strive to reach greater targets. Each year we stepped into, has always begun with consistent foundation for improvement in every sphere within the College and we look forward to completing many more successful years of imparting knowledge, strengthening the character of our students and enabling them to become lifelong learners.
A Sesquicentenary is an achievement and we hope to mark this major milestone of our school by planning a range of activities and projects, some of which have already begun. In order to ensure the smooth progress in planning the events, a Core Committee, has been appointed with representatives from the College Staff, OBU, Welfare Society & Parents. The Core Committee will be the steering wheel for the activities / events / projects planned.
As we commence our celebration of this special milestone in the history of Wesley with an objective of commemorating in a splendid and unique manner, while remembering its traditions, the untiring efforts of our founders and instilling a sense of Respect, Loyalty and Honor in the minds of our students as well as the Alumni, I call upon our Alumni, parents, students and all well wishers to support the College in all possible ways.  

‘Ora et Labora’

Avanka Fernando
PRINCIPAL

OBU President’s Message

Dear Wesleyites
 
Greetings from the Wesley College Old Boys Union,
 
As we proudly join in celebrating the momentous occasion of Wesley College’s 150th anniversary, we reflect on the rich legacy and enduring spirit that unite us all. It is with great pride and enthusiasm that we, as the Old Boys Union, continue to pledge our unwavering support to our alma mater.
 
At the heart of our mission lies the commitment to foster a strong sense of camaraderie and togetherness among our esteemed alumni, while also extending a helping hand to current students and faculty members. As we commemorate this significant milestone, we reaffirm our dedication to upholding the values of excellence, integrity, and service that Wesley College instilled in each of us.
 
Throughout the years, the Old Boys Union has remained steadfast in its efforts to contribute to the growth and development of Wesley College. Whether through mentorship programs, career guidance initiatives, or philanthropic endeavors, we endeavor to create meaningful opportunities for engagement and support.
 
As we embark on this historic journey of celebration and reflection, let us come together in solidarity to honor our shared heritage and pave the way for a brighter future for Wesley College and its community. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact and uphold the legacy of excellence that defines our alma mater.
 
Thank you for your continued support and participation. Here’s to 150 years of Wesley College excellence, and to the countless memories yet to be made.
 
Warm regards,
 
Capt. Navin De Silva
President
Wesley College Old Boys Union

WCWS president’s message

Greetings, Wesley College community,
 
As the President of the Wesley College Welfare Society, I extend a warm welcome to all students, teachers, and support staff as we embark on a significant milestone in our institution’s history – the celebration of our Sesquicentennial anniversary.
 
At Wesley College Welfare Society, our primary focus remains steadfast: the welfare and well-being of every member of our community. As we commemorate 150 years of academic excellence and camaraderie, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting the holistic development and ensuring the welfare of our students, faculty, and staff.
 
Throughout this celebratory year, we will continue to implement initiatives and programs aimed at fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Your welfare is our top priority, and we strive to create avenues for open communication, support, and growth.
 
As we reflect on our rich history and look ahead to a promising future, let us unite in our shared dedication to upholding the values of compassion, respect, and integrity that define Wesley College.
 
Thank you for being an integral part of our journey. Here’s to 150 years of excellence, and to many more years of collective achievement and well-being.
 
GOD bless you,
 
‘Ora et Labora’
 
Ranil Thilakaratne
President
Wesley College Welfare Society

PTA Vice president’s message

Dear Wesley College Community,
 
Greetings from the Wesley College Parents, Teachers Association,
As Wesley College embarks on the joyous celebration of its 150th anniversary, we, the members of the Parents, Teachers Association, are filled with pride and gratitude for the countless memories and achievements that have shaped our beloved institution over the years.
 
At the heart of our association’s mission lies a deep commitment to supporting the holistic development and well-being of our students and teachers, hand in hand with the invaluable partnership of parents. As we commemorate this historic milestone, we are more dedicated than ever to fostering a collaborative and nurturing environment where every member of our Wesley College family can thrive.
 
Through our collective efforts, we strive to enhance the educational experience by providing resources, guidance, and assistance to both students and teachers alike. Whether through fundraising initiatives, volunteer opportunities, or advocacy efforts, we aim to strengthen the bonds of community and empower each individual to reach their fullest potential.
 
As we reflect on the remarkable journey that has brought us to this momentous occasion, let us celebrate the legacy of excellence, compassion, and unity that defines Wesley College. Together, let us embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, knowing that by working together, we can continue to uphold the values that make Wesley College truly exceptional.
 
Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to our shared mission. Here’s to 150 years of Wesley College excellence, and to the bright future that awaits us all.
 
Warm regards,
 
Ora Et Labora
 
Farman Cassim (PC)
Vice President
Wesley College Parents, Teachers Association

Projects & Events

In order to mark this historic era, we hope to plan a range of activities (commencing from now), some of which have already begun – which of course will be of great benefit to our students in the long run. A series of high profile gala events are proposed leading up to the period of celebration and we look forward to your generous support and participation at these events.

A special emphasis in education and infrastructure are a few of the ventures which we will be focusing on throughout the upcoming years.

ANNUAL ORATION

We commenced an Annual Oration titled ‘Shelton Wirasinha Oration’ in 2017 during which Guest speakers are invited to address on relevant topics. This was liaised by Mr Kumar De Silva.

With his 21 year tenure as Principal of Wesley College from 1962-1983, Mr Shelton Wirasinha goes on record as being the second longest serving Principal after Revd. Henry Highfield. A product of Richmond College, Galle, he touched the hearts and lives of tens of thousands of students who passed through the portals of Wesley College. The Shelton Wirasinha Oration is thus a fitting event which pays homage to this great educationist.

CHRONICLES – HIGHLIGHTING THE HISTORY OF WESLEY COLLEGE

An exclusive magazine/coffee table book comprising the history of Wesley College is hoped to be published prior to the 150th year celebration. A committee headed by Mr Jeremy Brohier meets frequently to gather / search for various information and nearly 80% – 90% information has been collected already. The team is working really hard on this and we are expecting to publish the best history book of Wesley.

SOCIAL / COMMUNITY SERVICE

We decided to commence a project which would benefit rural / less privileged schools in Sri Lanka. The initial step was taken in 2018 and many schools have been assisted thus far .

Our objective of this project is to:

  1. support at least 150 schools through this project which would enhance the educational facilities at least to a certain extent & to uplift the standards of Education in this country.
  2. Educate our children on caring / sharing and be a beacon of light and move in line with the mission and vision of the Methodist Church, by blessing others with the blessings which they have received

CAREER GUIDANCE

Beginning in 2017, in order to broaden the knowledge, skills, abilities and improve decision making skills of our own students, different batches of old boys who are in the field of career guidance have volunteered to organize Career Guidance Seminars for students in the advanced level classes who leave school after the Advanced Level Examination. Professionals are invited to address the students on employment opportunities and effective job placements.

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF THE COLLEGE

Wesley College has been continuously striving towards providing quality education to its students, and has taken all possible initiatives to achieve this goal. Being in line with the vision of the College which is ‘To be the premier Christian secondary educational institute and to provide men of stature and integrity to be leaders in the technologically advancing environment.’, and realizing the overwhelming power of the virtual world which is moving towards computer generated sphere, Wesley is focusing on providing an excellent foundation in IT so that its students become more independent and all set to face the competitive world.

As an initial step, smart boards were installed in the Primary schools at Havelock Town and Tampola, the Advanced Level Science stream classrooms, Resource rooms, Conference room and Grade 6 & 7 classrooms. The classes which do not have the Smart boards right now are using the Resource rooms. Our aim is to install Smart boards to all the classrooms by the time we celebrate the 150th Anniversary in 2024.

During the initial lockdown in 2020, a Microsoft e-mail account was created for each student in grade 6 & above so that they could join the online lessons via MS Teams. This was done with the objective of preparing the children to the fast changing environment for their life after school. An online platform (Moodle) was created on the College website into which lessons were uploaded for grades 1-9 providing a pool of resources for the benefit of the children.

RENOVATING / REFURBISHING AND RESTORATION

Renovation of the College buildings and restoration with contemporary infrastructure are hoped to commence gradually. The project includes re-plastering the walls, completing the electricity facilities, repainting etc, which will provide an environment which is vital to learning for the students.

AN EVENT OF MUSIC  – CELEBRATION OF MUSIC & PERFORMANCE ARTS

Wesley College has been a school that always performs and engages in the aesthetic segment in the society. We hope to present a mega Musial show with the first ever ’Double blue Symphony Orchestra’ for which we anticipate the participation of our present boys, Old boys and friends both here and overseas. At the initial stage, we were able to have the auditions in 2020 and we hope to resume once the school begins. Music & Drama has been part and parcel of Wesley and this initiative will be an added advantage for our students to showcase their own talents.

SOUVENIRS :A selection of carefully curated commemorative souvenirs designed to mark the 150th Anniversary.MugsCapsCufflinksTie Pins
  • 150th Anniversary pack (?)
  • A souvenir for every student

ISO CERTIFICATION:

In order to improve our standards and thereby provide a quality education, plans are underway to obtain the ISO certification.