Swarnamali Girls' College, Kandy
The Beginning as Maha Nagarika Pasala
The school was inaugurated in 1928 in the village of Katukele as “Maha Nagarika Pasala” with 164 students and only 4 teachers. At that time, the classes were divided into primary and secondary sections by two inspectors, including Mr. Lithem, the main inspector. The upper classes were located in the boys’ section while the primary section was in the girls’ classes. The first modern building was constructed in 1929.
Expansion of Activities and Curriculum
Although the school started in 1928, by 1936 it had introduced theatre, handicrafts, folk dances, home science, and weaving into its curriculum. Sports activities also developed, with netball becoming popular by 1941. The student population grew to 207 by 1942.
Community Engagement
On March 3rd, 1945, the school celebrated its first Parents’ Day. Six teachers were serving the growing student body.
Cultural and Sporting Milestones
In 1958, the school held its first ‘Shramadana’ campaign, concert, and an arts and crafts exhibition under the program called “Shramabimani”. The first prize-giving ceremony was held in 1959. Additionally, the school participated in zonal-level sports meets, showcasing its athletic talents.
Growth and Renaming
On June 18th, 1960, the first teachers and parents meeting was held. In 1963, the school was renamed “Nagarika Balikawa” with Mrs. A.M.K. Makuloluwa appointed as principal. That year, the school held its first sports meet on March 30th at the public grounds, accommodating 342 students and 13 teachers.
Transition to Swarnamali Girls’ College
By 1970, Mrs. A.M.S. Gnanasekaram became principal, and the staff grew to 16 by 1971. On December 4th, 1974, the school was officially renamed “Swarnamali Girls’ College”. At this time, the school had 580 students and 28 teachers. On December 14th, 1979, Swarnamali Girls’ College was upgraded to a high school and categorized as a “C” grade school, with Advanced Level classes introduced in the Arts stream.