University of Ceylon, Peradeniya - its glorious past

by Rupa BANDUWARDENA

University of Ceylon Peradeniya the first university in Sri Lanka has a special place in our history. It was a towering symbol of education during the immediate post-independence era. It was looked upon as the first and the best in keeping with its mission made explicitly clear by the fundamental task of a university is to produce educated men and women which has its relevancy to any country any time and today it remains a precious heritage in the history of Sri Lanka and Lankan education, holding a pre-eminent place.

The person behind this supreme gift to this paradise isle, making it so was, Sir Ivor Jennings the founded Vice-Chancellor an intellectual genius in the academic world.

Though it was during the colonial era, that the start was given it thus began, leading to the emergence of Peradeniya as a university of world standing.

Vision

University sprang to life and achieved world fame with Jennings who by now had become a world re-nowned academic and a university administrator. It is still held with veneration (if it is too higher a word) then with much respect by those who had the university education there.

Those who entered the most esteemed institution when it was at the peak of glory and fame are now distinguished senior citizens who with their superior performance have done wonders here and abroad.

They are a good example to the present undergraduates who have to step into their shoes to serve the country. From the early batches there is quite a number who have left us permanency. But they are very much alive in the hearts of those living today. University memories linger in the hearts of thousands living today. No matter what the present position is, the university then was getting us on track to face life's challenges. They became educated citizens worthy to fulfill the needs of the motherland, which they performed to the very letter.

Scenic splendour

Going back to the location and scenic beauty nothig could be held equivalent in the entire globe. So beautiful was the environment and the chain of buildings that it demonstrates the calibre of the pioneer and the architects who handled it. They depicted the architectural features of ancient Sri Lanka.

The residential halls were well spaced and constructed on mini hill tops. Marrs, Jayatilleke Pieris, Sanghamitta, Hilda and Ramanathan are few such halls. The Lodge the highest abode was on a central spot. The lecturers quarters were at Mahakanda along Galaha road.

The other places of importance - the Arts Theatre, the Senate building, massive Gymnasium the library and the spacious lecture rooms were designed to provide the ideal setting for academic achievements.

Then there is the Pillard Area, summer houses, the beautifully landscaped shady curved Kissing Bend, Lovers Lane Open Air Stadium, built later, making the entire university premises a true wonder unfolding the service it rendered. Judging from the times it came up, the esteemed institution was a marvel.

Dedicated service

The dedicated service of the pioneer was not single handed. He was assisted by a galaxy of academics. The students during the period were fortunate to have received their education from the most learned scholars, professors and lecturers who were ever willing to accomplish the gigantic task. Many more with international repute like the pioneer brought, bliss to their lives.

They had strong intellect to plan guide and lead the students to success. Being a residential university, life was gay with numerous activities. Everyday was an eventful day with drama debates, concerts and sports events. Social events of note were Hall socials, faculty dances, colours nite, going down dinners etc. held annually.

Then there were excursions organised to places like worlds End and plays of historical importance. There was also lot of fun with hikes up Hantana during weekends. Kandy Perahera was another event hardly missed by many.

They often enjoyed the evenings which showed Maname Sinhabahu by Professor Sarachchandra at the open air stadium also initiated by him and the Documentaries shown in the Arts Theatre.

The university career comes to an end with the final examination which keeps them awake till late night. The climax of one's academic life is marked by the Convocation held after the result are released. The unique occasion - the Convocation is a lasting memory in ones life.

Quality

This was not the terminal point. The ambitious, best performers could enter the prestigious Ceylon Civil Service held in high esteem during the colonial era later named CAS, after obtaining an excellent pass at the competitive examination which opened the doors to hold the top most positions in the administration of the country.

Ananda Guruge Leel and Olcott Gunasekera, K.H.J. Wijayadasa late Cyril Herath are a few of the outstanding examples.

There was also the opportunity for the best students to join the teaching staff of their respective faculties leading to post-graduate qualifications abroad.

This was further facilitated by the medium of instruction which was English in accordance with the British system. Undergraduates possessed a sound knowledge of English and a high standard was maintained as the need to become conversant in English, was important at the time.

That was the most important requirement. It was the first institution to offer degrees in the English medium, which provided them with the best career opportunities. Those, who passed out, were high quality graduates who could fit into any superior task.

They were in a position to face and handle any situation with confidence, courage and refinement. Contributing factors were many. In addition to the excellent facilities provided with the best qualified superb staff, the study programmes and curriculum then, was the most advanced on par with modern teaching methods. Each semester was a new learning experience. At the beginning it has proved its value as the highest academic institution enjoying a strong tradition of quality. It is said that, in its hey day it was the pick of South Asia. That was a time that modern technology and high tech facilities were unheard of yet for all, the university of Ceylon, Peradeniya did everything quite successfully in its own way setting an example to the subsequent universities which were to come up later.

It was indeed the island's first and the number one university. Let justice prevail and honour what truly deserves to be honoured.