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"We strongly condemn the murder of a very valuable individual", says a press spokesman issued by the members of Jaffna Central College Old Boys and Girls Association UK branch, on the killing of Principal of Jaffna Central College and Patron of the Association, whatever may be the reason or justification.

"The untimely death of Mr. Rasathurai, who has done so much to and achieved so much for Jaffna Central College, is a great loss not only to the College but also to the Tamil community in Jaffna. The late Mr. Rasathurai was an educationaist, a leader among principals and an efficient academic administrator," it continues.

It further says:

"When the late Mr. Rasathurai became the Principal of Jaffna Central College in 1996, the College had about 500 students and there were no proper classrooms, library, laboratory, laboratory equipment or chemicals and most of the buildings did not have a proper roof.

The playing field was used by the armed forces to keep their vehicles. At that time, students, rejected by other Colleges sought admission to Jaffna Central College and the late Mr. Rasathurai opened the doors for these students to receive education.

The role of the College in providing education to students rejected by other Colleges was recognised by the Education Authorities and the College was honoured for this service to the community. Today, the College has more than 2,800 students, a full compliment of staff, fully equipped classrooms and laboratories, a library well stocked with books and publications and other resources.

His efforts were rewarded when the Government made Jaffna Central College, a National College and brought the College under its direct control. He developed a very healthy relationship with the Government and through this, he was able to secure funding for most of the improvements to the College buildings and resources.

"During his recent visit to the United Kingdom, he successfully concluded arrangements with the Surrey University to set up Research Centre at Jaffna Central College and for funds and books necessary for this project.

The late Mr. Rasathurai spent most of his time in London, visiting Education Authorities and Schools, collecting information on the curriculum, teaching methods, teaching aids, the organisation structure of schools and ways to improve the resources and the quality of teaching. While many praised him for his achievements, a few were critical of his leadership style.

His vision for Jaffna Central College and his determination to achieve that vision has guided him and he would have continued in this mission and achieved all that he had planned.

Unfortunately, all this has now come to an end, for he is no more.

"We, through this, convey our deepest sympathies to his family, academic and administrative staff at the College and the members of the wider community.

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