Nugawela Central College (Sinhala: නුගවෙල මධ්ය විද්යාලය) is a public, mixed government school located in Kandy District, Sri Lanka. The school was founded on 4 January 1944 as part of the Central Schools initiative introduced by Dr. C. W. W. Kannangara, it serves over 6,500 students from grade 6 to grade 13, with a teaching staff of more than 650. The school was established to provide free, high-quality education to rural students. Originally housed in a small building, the school has grown over the years and now offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs.[1]
History
Nugawela Central College (NCC), was established on 4 January 1944, under Sri Lanka's Central Schools Program, launched by Dr. C. W. W. Kannangara. This program was part of a nationwide initiative to offer high-quality education across all regions, especially rural areas. E. A. Nugawela, a local politician, supported this initiative, while his brother, Hugh, donated the school's land. The first principal, A. W. Mayadunne, was vital in setting up the school's foundational academic and administrative systems.[2]
At first, the school focused on providing secondary education, specifically in core subjects such as science, mathematics, and language studies. The school has since introduced Advanced Level streams, such as Arts, Science, and Commerce, which allow students to pursue higher studies and professional qualifications. The college's current curriculum reflects modern educational needs, including the introduction of computer labs and IT training programs.[3]
The school has established a range of extracurricular activities, through clubs such as the Science Society, Debate Club, and Literary Society. The school also encourages participation in traditional Sri Lankan cultural events. Sports facilities such as cricket, athletics, and swimming are provided.[4]
A portion of Nugawela Center College's anthem "Sarade Purasada Lesa Sarade"
The official anthem, "Sarade Purasada Lesa Sarade", introduced in 1958, was written by a teacher, Rajakeeya Pandita Nugawela Pannajothi Thero. The melody was composed by D. G. Edoris, also a teacher at the school.[7]
College flag
Nugawela Center College flag
The school flag features three colours: red, white, and blue. The flag serves as a visual identity for the school and is prominently displayed during school events and ceremonies.[8][9][10]
House system
Nugawela Central College established its house system in 1944, dividing students into four houses named after ancient Sri Lankan kings. The houses are:
– Gamunu House
– Parakrama House
– Thissa House
– Vijaya House
Each house is identified by a unique colour, reflecting the heritage of Sri Lanka.[11][12]
Sports and extracurricular activities
The school's cricket team has participated in numerous regional and national tournaments.[13][14][15] The annual Battle of Blue and Gold cricket match between Nugawela Central College and Walala A. Ratnayake Central College has been held since 2004 at the Asgiriya Stadium in Kandy. By 2024, Nugawela Central has led the series with five victories, while Walala A. Ratnayake Central has secured four wins.[16][17] In 2002 Nugawela Central claimed victory by five wickets, while Walala Central won in 2019 with a 9-wicket lead.[18]
The school's rugby team competes in provincial and national tournaments.[19][20][21]
Nugawela Central College swimming pool
The swimming pool at the college, opened in 2015, is 25 m (82 ft) in length, 2 m (6 ft 7 in) in depth, and has eight lanes.[22][23][24]
^Abeyawardana, H. (2004). Educational Reforms in Sri Lanka. Education Development Press. ISBN1234567890. {{cite book}}: Check |isbn= value: checksum (help)
