We stand in silence.
In grief and agony.
We are the OBA of JCC, Colombo Branch.
Tributes pour from all over for a gem of a personality.
A humble gent beyond compare.
Long-legged in stride.
Lofty in ideals.
Humane to the core.
Larger than life.
A simpleton within reach to anyone.
With an inviting grin to entice and embrace.
He and his three brothers are thoroughbred Jaffna Centralites. Athletics and Cricket were their heartbeat. Education was with equal impetus....
High-jumper extraordinaire Ethir's leap placed our Alma Mater JCC and the then Ceylon in the Asian and Olympian circuit and stardom.
A stunning achievement by the strong Jaffna-born that shook the Nation.
As a schoolboy he shattered the National record in High-jump and earned Ceylon it's very first Gold in the Asian Games.
Pride is ours as we too have attended the same school, though a generation or two apart!
We feel honoured as Dr Ethir was a Vice-Patron of our Colombo Association.
He has taken part enthusiastically in our OBA activities during his visits to Colombo.
At ease always to impart advice and guidance.
We recall his trust and bond with the Col OBA.
He insisted that the funds belonging to his project (ie) JCC Pavilion and Ground Development - were placed with the Col OBA and dispensed at his and the Principal's joint direction towards the last stage of the project.
Colombo OBA played it's part to his satisfaction.
Memories are green.
One could write volumes about
Dr Ethir's passion and service to the land of his birth.
Especially to the down-trodden.
Enigmatic in delivery.
Yes, a decorated and distinguished son of the soil of Jaffna.
Tall in height.
Taller in service.
Fm Education to Sports to Societal Upliftment.
He would have cleared a height of 90 years in a few months.
His Maker has decided otherwise.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the close-knit family of Dr Ethir.
We regard him as a one-of-a-kind Centralite.
With a DNA hard to replicate.
Let the turf lie lightly on his sportive mortal remains.
We choke to bid bye, dear Sir.
A group of Wesleyan Methodist missionaries from Great Britain first arrived at the port of Galle, in the island of Ceylon, in the year 1814, on the 29th of June, a day observed annually by the Methodist Church in our country as Methodist Day. They came on a mission with the intention of establishing English schools around the island, as agreed upon with the then British Governor, Sir Robert Brownrigg, and to make an impact on the lives of the people they met in the name of Lord Jesus....
Upon their arrival on this beautiful island, they held their first conference on the 11th of July 1814, which they called 'The Little Conference.' During this conference, they discussed the locations and selected the missionaries by ballot. As a result, Rev. James Lynch and Rev. Thomas Squance were chosen to start their mission in Jaffna, in the northern province, to bring about change in the lives of the locals by sharing their intellectual and spiritual knowledge and educating the children, thereby influencing the parents, the community, the village, and the country.
On the 1st of August 1816, they purchased a centrally and ideally situated property, opposite the esplanade, which had earlier been used as an orphanage that had closed down. The property had buildings and a chapel quite adequate for their purpose, and they established a school, calling it "English School," as many other Methodist missionary schools were named around the island. Experience showed them the need for distinction among schools in Jaffna, and after five months, it was renamed "Jaffna Wesleyan English School."
This school, which has a continuous history from that date onwards, was reorganized by Rev. Dr. Peter Percival, who arrived in Jaffna in 1826. He was a great scholar and principal, a Protestant Methodist Christian in the first place but academically a Doctor of Divinity. As an educationist, he founded or converted the primary schools in the vicinity into feeder schools and upgraded the old orphanage to "Jaffna Central School," so that those who completed their studies at the feeder schools could continue at Jaffna Central School. Thus, the "English School" transformed into "Jaffna Central School" and later upgraded to "Jaffna Central College" – JCC - in the year 1869. This change impacted us all, inspiring us to make changes in others even today.
Jaffna Central College, the oldest Methodist mission institution in Southeast Asia, has a long line of missionary principals who were also educationalists of their time. They worked untiringly and with indomitable spirit to leave the place much better than when they entered it. The staff also worked with devotion and dedication. The school grew from strength to strength, with academic education unbeatable for quality and standards.
In the life and ministry of JCC, here are some of the milestones it has achieved and the changes it has enacted.
During Principal Rev. W. Garret’s period (1891-1903), JCC achieved collegiate status, became affiliated with Calcutta University, and prepared students for the FA Examinations of Calcutta and Madras, Junior and Senior Cambridge, London Matriculation, and Commerce examinations.
Principal Rev. Frederick Webster improved sports at JCC and introduced Cricket in 1881.
Principal Rev. Gabriel Leese introduced Football in 1894 to JCC. Thus, we can proudly say that JCC introduced both these sports to the people of the Northern Province.
JCC continued to grow and expand, with new buildings started on the original site.
Principal Mr. Romaine Cooke (1901-1917), an architect and an engineer, was responsible for the construction of the Assembly Hall, later named as “Romaine Cooke Hall.” This was the first two-storied building in the Northern Province. He also designed the College Crest and introduced the College colors – Chocolate and Blue.
The college thrived in education and sports under the passionate leadership of Rev. W.M.P. Wilkes. In 1906, he promoted the establishment of the JCC Old Boys Association, which, as of today, is a 117-year-old association.
JCC proudly acknowledges that Rev. Wilkes played a key role in founding the JCC Colombo OBA on July 26, 1913. He not only attended but also presided over the inaugural meeting. Since then, the association has evolved into a robust and influential organization, experiencing significant growth in membership. It remains steadfast in its commitment to serving the College in various capacities up to the present day.
Principal Rev. E.T. Sebi started the Boys Scout Movement at JCC in 1916, making JCC the first school to register out of five schools. The spirit of Scouting disseminated from JCC, and today, nearly all schools in the Northern Province have active Boy Scouts. This influential change enabled students to focus on non-academic areas such as character development and service to others. JCC stands proud by producing many Queen’s and Presidents scouts, as well as many Rovers and Leaders.
Principal Rev. Harold Bullough (1917-1921) introduced Botany, Zoology, Accounting, Finance, and bookkeeping subjects at JCC.
Continuing the college's progression, Principal Rev. Percy T. Cash (1922-1939) undertook reforms to the school curriculum to align it with the demands of the modern era. He placed significant emphasis on the Tamil language, agricultural botany, Sanskrit, carpentry, and handcrafts. Concurrently, his esteemed wife, Mrs. Cash, contributed to the musical aspect of JCC. Together, they left an indelible mark by composing the College Song "Wet the Ground" and the College Prize Day Hymn "Lord of our Life," with Rev. Cash penning the lyrics and Mrs. Cash crafting the music. Their combined efforts established a lasting legacy at JCC.
Many may not know that the great Mahatma Gandhi visited the College in 1927.
In 1962, the Sri Lankan Methodist Mission handed over the College to the Sri Lankan Government, along with our sister School, Vembadi Girls High School.
The legacy and mission of JCC have been upheld by numerous local principals, among them Mr. J.C. Charles, Rev. Dr. D.T. Niles, and Mr. A.E. Thambar, alongside many others. Some of these individuals transitioned from being former students to teachers and eventually assumed the role of principal at JCC. Their collective efforts have been instrumental in shaping the college's curriculum, fostering extracurricular activities, establishing clubs, and enhancing the institution's standards to adapt to evolving times and needs.
The journey of the college has been far from easy. Despite encountering numerous challenges, it has remained steadfast and unwavering in its commitment. Situated in the forefront of the battleground, it endured significant losses during the tumultuous periods of the 1980s, 90s, and 2000s, witnessing the sacrifice of many of its students to direct and indirect fire. Tragically, during the war, Principal Mr. Rajadurai was assassinated, and the college mourned the loss of beloved figures such as Senior Prefect Master Vipulananthan, Satheeskanthan, and numerous other friends. The conflict left almost all buildings damaged, pushing the school to the brink of permanent closure. However, through the resilience and determination of Principal Late Mr. Balasundaram, the school persevered, managing to continue its operations with approximately 250 students.
Reflecting on history, the college has faced adversity before. In 1884, a cyclone wreaked havoc, causing significant damage to many buildings, necessitating extensive rebuilding efforts. Even earlier, during the 1855 famine and smallpox epidemic, JCC suffered the loss of many students. Despite these trials, the college has endured, demonstrating its resilience and unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.
Despite facing numerous challenges, the ministry of JCC persists, profoundly impacting the lives of all who enter its gates, as well as their families, friends, neighbors, communities, villages, and country. Upholding an inclusive ethos, irrespective of caste, religion, or race, JCC extends its empowering mission to all, including its Sinhalese brothers. With a current student body exceeding 1900, JCC is dedicated to nurturing individuals into better human beings, equipping them to effect positive change in others. Additionally, numerous alumni spanning across the globe, from countries such as Australia, Canada, France, London, and Norway, have established OBAs in their respective nations, contributing to the transformation of the current student population. Through this interconnected network, the legacy of JCC continues to flourish, ensuring that each generation contributes to the betterment of society.
Listing out every Centralite who has brought fame to our beloved college, community, and country. JCC has produced academics in every field (Deans, Professors, Lecturers, Teachers), artists, banking professionals, business leaders (MDs, CEOs), commissioned and non-commissioned officers in the police and tri-forces, engineering professionals, financial professionals, government servants in all services, judicial professionals (judges and lawyers), medical professionals (famous heart surgeons – the ones who performed the first heart transplant operation in Sri Lanka, gynecologists, general physicians), priests, politicians (ministers, mayors), motivational trainers, sportsmen (cricketers, footballers, weightlifters, Olympians), and sports-related professionals, shipping professionals. They all made a change and are still making changes in the people they meet and associate with. These old boys are making a change in one way or another in the lives of the students too. Old boys donate in their individual capacity or through the OBA’s they associate with – monetary donations, knowledge, motivation, infrastructure, material donations, and much more as needed by the college. These donations contribute to making a change and impacting the lives of the students. Not only the present student population but also those who have entered the universities and need assistance. They even touched the lives of many during the Covid pandemic lockdown – taking huge risks and delivering essential items to the needy families of the students.
Since 1816, JCC has been making changes in the lives of many. The spirit of Central still grows and glows, and all Centralites are justly proud of the past. It is upon us, as old boys, along with the school administration of today, to continue the mission of JCC by adding value and propelling our beloved college for further laurels."
Unto the glory of God, the best and the highest.
Many of our Old Boys in Colombo desired the formation of a branch of the Old Boys' Association there, in order that they might keep in touch with one another and their invitation, and on 26th July, 1913, a splendid Re-union was held atthe Wesley College. Group photograph taken on the occasion contained no less than seventy old boys. Mr. Wilkes presided at the public meeting that inaugurated the Branch Association and the chief speakers on the occasion were, Mr. Joseph Grenier, K.C., Rev. H. Highfield, M.A., Dr. E. V. Ratnam, F.R.C.S., and Rev. A. E. Restarick, B.A..
Patron:
Mr. S. Indrakumar
Vice Patrons:
Dr. K. Kanag-Iswaran PC
Mr. Vernon Fernando
Mr. Mano Devasagayam
Mr. V. Ganesh
Mr. S.S. Sivakumar
President:
Mr. A.T. David
Vice Presidents:
Mr. R. A. Evarts
Mr. B. Ravindran
Dr. A. Sivasothy
Mr. M. Sathananthan
Mr. T. Vaseeharan
Secretary:
Mr. V. J. Forman
Asst. Secretary:
Mr. S. Poongunran
Treasurer:
Mr. J. Pirathapan
Asst. Treasurer:
Mr. D. Thambiapillai
Committee Members:
Mr. R. Punniamoorthy
Mr. M. S. Aboobucker
Mr. E. J. Hensman
Mr. R. Bhaskaran
Mr. B. Nanthakumar
Mr. K. Rajkumar
Mr. G. J. David
Mr. A. M. Naushad
Mr. M. G. M. Jameel
Mr. T. T. Mayuran
Mr. A. Justin Densing
Mr. T. Renushankar
Auditors:
M/S S.R. Associates
Patron:
Mr. S. Indrakumar
Vice Patrons:
Mr. V. Fernando
Dr. K. Kanag-Iswaran PC
Mr. V. Ganesh
Mr. S.S. Sivakumar
Mr. M. Devasagayam
President:
Mr. A.T. David
Vice Presidents:
Mr. Rajan Everts
Mr. F.X.C. Hariharan
Mr. R. Punniamoorthy
Dr. A. Sivasothy
Mr. T. Vaseeharan
Secretary:
Mr. M. Sathananthan
Asst. Secretary:
Mr. S. Poongunran
Treasurer:
Mr. J. Pirathapan
Asst. Treasurer:
Mr. R. Baskaran
Committee Members:
Mr. B. Ravindran
Mr. V. Jeganesan
Mr. M. Amirthanayagam
Mr. K. Ratnasabapathy
Mr. B. Nanthakumar
Mr. A.M. Naushad
Mr. E.J. Hensman
Mr. G.J. David
Mr. Victor Forman
Mr. A. Justin Densing
Mr. Shabir Lukmanjee
Mr. M.G.M. Jameel
Mr. G. Kailaivasan
Mr. T. Suganthan
Mr. T. Athiththan
Auditors:
M/S S.R. Associates
To increase the sense of fellowship, cordiality and goodwill among Old Boys with one another and with the College.
To promote fraternity among the Old Boys.
To afford guidance, encouragement and support to the younger generation of Centralites.
To further the interest and welfare of the Alma – Mater and the Old Boys’ Association in Jaffna and other places.
To organize and undertake any activities in order to achieve the aims and objects of the Association.
COBA awards scholarships in the form of financial aid to deserving students to help them pursue their education, as it reduces the financial burden of attending college or university.
Scholarships are awarded based on various criteria, including academic achievement, financial need, extracurricular involvement, community service, leadership abilities, athletic prowess, or specific talents such as music, art, or writing.
Applying for scholarships typically involves submitting an application form, along with supporting documents such as Principal’s recommendation, Grama Niladari’s Certificates and proof of financial need (if applicable). Scholarship recipients are usually selected through a competitive process based on the eligibility criteria and the quality of their application materials.
Overall, scholarships play a crucial role in making higher education more accessible and affordable for students, enabling them to pursue their academic and career goals without taking on excessive debt.
The work of an Education Committee typically revolves around supporting in providing additional financial and material support to students & teachers to conduct after hour classes, workshops, seminars and other programs at the College. They also support in overseeing and improving educational programs, and initiatives, Curriculum Oversight and Development, Assessment and Accountability, Professional Development, Parent and Community Engagement etc.
Overall, an Education Committee supports in shaping the educational landscape, fostering continuous improvement, and promoting the academic success and well-being of students. By collaborating with stakeholders, implementing evidence-based practices, and advocating for educational excellence, the committee contributes to the realization of educational goals and aspirations of the College.
Event management committee involves in the planning, organization, coordination, and execution of events, ranging from small gatherings to OBA’s calendared functions such as AGM’s, Founders Day Services, Religious Functions, Annual Trips etc. Overall, event management requires a combination of strategic planning, attention to detail, creativity, flexibility, and effective communication to bring the Members’ requests to life and create memorable experiences. It is a dynamic and fast-paced field that offers opportunities for creativity, collaboration, and personal fulfillment.
Sports committee plays a vital role in promoting and supporting sports activities, participation and athletic development of the College students. By effectively managing sports programs and initiatives, the committee contributes to the physical, social, and emotional well-being of participants and enhances the overall sports culture and environment. Some key aspects of the sports committee are Planning and Coordination, Facility and Equipment Maintenance, providing financial support for sports activities and events and seek funding opportunities through sponsorships, donations, grants, or fundraising activities to support the College sports initiatives.
2024 April 06
Dear Centralites and family members,
would like to thank you for having confidence in me and electing me for a second term. I would like to thank the outgoing council members for their support and welcome the new members. Colombo OBA works as a team with respect and dignity and paying attention to all the views of the members and take collective decisions....
I am looking up to the elected office bearers and committee members to attend the meetings in person or virtually and execute the tasks assigned to them for COBA to function professionally and efficiently to support the development of the college.
I would like to thank the members for their support in adopting the Code of Conduct, Ethics and Governance Structure which spells out the values and guidance for the appropriate conduct of the OBAs and their members as well as administrative guidelines and suggestions. This document will be shared with all the Global OBAs for their feedback if any and adoption. This will be a dynamic document which will be amended with the feedback received from Global OBA’s so that we will have an appropriate document with input from all the OBA’s.
One of the proposals in the Global OBA governance structure is a common Website for JCC which was agreed in the Global OBA forum and the task of creating the website was given to COBA. I am very pleased to inform you that a new website is launched today. The website address (jccoba.com) is available in the AGM booklet 23/24 published in soft form and posted today in the COBA WhatsApp group and the website. I would like to thank Mr. Poongunran for leading this initiative and making this project a reality.
With the support of the Exco, we would focus on Membership drive & Succession planning during this year – A mix of young talent and men with experience and wisdom in our Exco would ensure, we have an effective succession plan to take up leadership positions and carry on the baton passed on by our predecessors. If work is shared among all members, there will be less burden on a few who have to shoulder the work. Allocation of work evenly will encourage more old boys to join the Exco. We are attempting to include undergraduates who are recipients of our scholarship program in our Exco who are following undergraduate programs in IT / Computer science and who can help COBA with maintaining the digital membership register, support in website administration and preparation of membership drive e-flyers.
If our OBA and other global OBAs work together unitedly for the development of the college, we could make a positive change in the college soon.
Good night and have a pleasant evening.
Phone: +94212222184, +94212223658, +94212214617
Fax: +94212226397
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