Visakhians in memorable Walk

By Kathya De Silva

When we go down memory lane, most of our childhood recollections invariably revolve round our school. It is the place where we spent almost the entirety of our childhood and where we met friends who would be with us in good times and bad, for the rest of our lives. The school was indeed our second home and its Principal and staff, our second parents.

The school years are the most important period in a child's life. It is where the child gains knowledge and skills, builds personality and gears to meet the challenges of the world. The way a child socialises at school, gives a good indication on how he or she would grow up and enter society.

I remember how sad we were on the last day at school, when we finished the last revision in class, in preparation for the much feared Advanced Level examination.

The entire classroom with our teacher included, parted with teary eyes, not knowing when we will meet after the 'fearful' examination. It is indeed a treat when we meet past teachers and old friends, and catch up to laugh at many a mischievous venture engaged during schooldays.

How often can we give back to our Alma Mater, its Principal and teachers? How often can one say, 'I helped?' Well, here's the chance. The Visakha Vidyalaya Old Girls' Association together with the School Development Society is now on a mission to collect funds for the renovation and refurbishment of the School's main hall, the Jeremias Dias Hall.

A Walk to raise funds will be conducted on Saturday, June 1, starting from the school grounds at 7 am, proceeding along Havelock Road towards Thunmulla Junction, then along Reid Avenue, Thurstan Road and Queens Road.

The procession will return to the school grounds via R A de Mel Mawatha (Duplication Road), followed by DJ music to keep the crowd toe-tapping until 1 pm. Food and thirst quenches will be provided to over 5,000 participants expected for the event. The 'Visakha Walk 2013' will also mark the School's 95th anniversary.

The Hall, the purpose of the endeavour, is dedicated to Mrs Jeremias Dias who established the School, first naming it 'Buddhist Girls' College' in a house named 'The Firs' in 1917. The need of a hall was felt and in 1977 the foundation stone for the Jeremias Dias Hall was laid by the then Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike. The hall was bestowed upon the students of Visakha Vidyalaya by President J R Jayawardena on October 17, 1983. The Jeremias Dias Hall was the venue for many an event, from awards ceremonies to concerts, religious programs, seminars, meetings et al. No doubt, each and every Visakhian, past and present, must have had at least one glorious moment on stage when the entire School cheered her achievement. Being a past Visakhian, I remember the times when we the young students longed to receive an award on the stage from the Principal and how our hearts beat in excitement when our names are called up on stage.

The hall has built characters, made us self- confident and helped us gain respect from those we loved.

The encouragement we received from our teachers and friends when we were up on stage, propelled us to perform even better and bring glory to the School and to the country.

It has been 30 years since the hall was built and no major renovations have been carried out since 1998.

It is indeed a giant task. But when there is unity and dedication, nothing is impossible. This is why it is important for both present and past students, who have achieved great feats thanks to their Alma Mater, to give back by donating and joining in the Walk. Those who wish to participate may call Visakha OGA office on 0777-300-181 for details.