Kalutara Vidyalaya Old Boys' Association
The Kalutara Vidyalaya Old Boys' Association was formed with the intention of harvesting the energetic Alumni for the development of the vidyalaya and its facilities.
Association Objectives
Developing school education, sports, cultural, religious and physical resources and organizing for this, preparing and implementing projects and other activities.
International Hubs
United Kingdom, Australia, Qatar
The Kalutara Vidyalaya Old Boys' Association (KVOBA) was established, marking a significant milestone in the history of Kalutara Vidyalaya.
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Purpose and Formation
The Old Boys Association (OBA) of Kalutara Vidyalaya was established as an alumni body dedicated to fostering lifelong bonds among former students (often called “Kevians”) and to supporting the development of the school. Although the exact founding date of the OBA is less prominently documented than the school itself, the organization has grown into an influential network of alumni both within Sri Lanka and internationally. The OBA plays a key role in organizing alumni events, networking opportunities, and various programs that maintain and enhance the school’s community spirit.
Activities and Milestones
One of the well-known traditions that reflect the active involvement of the OBA is the “Battle of the Mangosteen” cricket match-an annual encounter with Tissa Central College. Dating back to 1949, this match is not only a sporting event but a celebration of longstanding camaraderie and competitive spirit between two leading Buddhist schools. Over the decades, the match has garnered historical significance with memorable moments such as the first victory by Kalutara Vidyalaya under the leadership of Herbert de Silva and later, Tissa Central College’s first win in 1958 under captaincy of A. K. D. Jayaweera.
The OBA has also been involved in broader educational support
This includes initiatives related to school development, fundraising for infrastructural improvements, and organizing cultural and social events that unite alumni from various parts of the globe. The association is particularly noted for its efforts to engage former students living abroad, such as in the United Kingdom, UAE, Japan, Qatar, and other parts of the world.
International Chapters and Community
The alumni of Kalutara Vidyalaya, fondly referred to as “Kevians,” have established branches in various countries. For instance, the Kalutara Vidyalaya Old Boys Association - UK serves as a hub for former students residing in the United Kingdom, providing a platform for networking, professional engagement, and social gatherings. These international chapters work in tandem with the main association to promote the spirit of the school and help in philanthropic and educational projects aimed at giving back to Kalutara Vidyalaya.
Contributions to Education and Society
Many notable alumni have contributed significantly to diverse fields such as sports, music, academia, politics, and the arts. Their active participation in the OBA underscores the commitment to maintaining a close-knit community that not only cherishes its heritage but also continues to contribute to national development. The association’s ongoing activities highlight the crucial role of alumni networks in sustaining the legacy and growth of educational institutions.
Conclusion
Kalutara Vidyalaya’s rich heritage-from its establishment in 1941 by visionary Sir Cyril de Zoysa to its evolution into a prestigious national institution-forms the backdrop against which the Old Boys Association has flourished. The OBA not only serves as a support structure for the school but also helps cultivate a sense of unity among its alumni across generations and continents. Through events like the “Battle of the Mangosteen” and numerous community initiatives, the association keeps alive the values of brotherhood, service, and excellence that the school instilled from its inception.
What Our
Old Boys' Says
Kalutara Vidyalaya has a proud history of producing distinguished individuals who have excelled in various fields, including sports.
Respected Sri Lankan singer and composer W. D. Amaradeva was encouraged to pursue further education at Kalutara Vidyalaya by his music teacher W. J. Fernando.
Narada Disasekara, the renowned Sri Lankan classical singer, had a profound connection with Kalutara Vidyalaya, where he pursued his secondary education.
Somawansa Amarasinghe, former leader of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), completed his secondary education at Kalutara Vidyalaya.
Tillakaratne Dilshan, the former Sri Lankan cricket captain, began his cricketing journey at Kalutara Vidyalaya, where his passion for the sport was nurtured during his teenage years.
Dulip Kapila Liyanage, a former Sri Lankan cricketer, is an alumnus of Kalutara Vidyalaya, where he pursued his education.
Malinga Bandara, a former Sri Lankan international cricketer, is an alumnus of Kalutara Vidyalaya, a school renowned for its contribution to cricket in Sri Lanka.
Milinda Siriwardena, a professional Sri Lankan cricketer who is an alumnus of Kalutara Vidyalaya, says the experience gained at the school contributed to nurturing his cricketing talent.
Pathum Nissanka, a prominent Sri Lankan cricketer, began his cricketing journey at Kalutara Vidyalaya. This performance significantly boosted his profile in the Sri Lankan cricketing community.
Renowned Sri Lankan sprinter Himasha Ishan is an alumnus of Kalutara Vidyalaya. His early education at Kalutara Vidyalaya laid the foundation for his athletic career.
