Nugawela Central College is a school in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It was built in 1880, becoming its current form on 4 January 1944. It was opened by former prime minister D. S. Senanayake. The school accommodates 13,200 students and provides primary and secondary education. Nugawela Central College is a school in the Kandy District and there are classes from 6 to 13. Most students enter this school by passing the grade 5 scholarship exam.[1]
History
Nugawela Central College (NCC) is a prominent educational institution located in the Kandy District of Sri Lanka. It was established on 4 January 1944 as part of the Central Schools initiative pioneered by Dr. C.W.W. Kannangara, widely regarded as the father of free education in Sri Lanka. The school was built on land donated by Hugh Nugawela, the brother of E.A. Nugawela, a significant political figure who served as Minister of Education in the first Cabinet of independent Sri Lanka.
The school's mission from its inception was to provide quality education to rural children, bridging the gap between urban and rural educational opportunities. A.W. Mayadunne was appointed as the first principal of the school, and under his leadership, NCC quickly gained a reputation for academic excellence.
Sports and Extracurricular Activities: Nugawela Central College is known for its contributions to sports, especially rugby, athletics, and cricket. Despite challenges like limited infrastructure and facilities, the school has produced notable sports figures, including Saranga Rajaguru, who represented Sri Lanka at the 2010 ICC Youth Cricket World Cup. The school’s rugby team has also made significant strides, with both boys and girls participating actively. Additionally, the college is a key venue for zonal and district-level competitions.
Academic Excellence: The school’s commitment to holistic education is reflected in its high success rates in the GCE Ordinary Level and Advanced Level examinations, with many students securing places in universities. Despite obstacles like limited resources, the dedication of both the teaching staff and students has enabled the school to maintain its status as a leading educational institution in the region.
Community and Support: The school has a strong support system in the form of a dedicated Old Boys' Association (OBA) and involved parents who actively contribute to the school's growth. Over the decades, the combined efforts of students, teachers, and the community have helped NCC navigate its challenges and continue to excel in both academic and extracurricular fields.
This historical journey showcases Nugawela Central College’s significant role in shaping the educational landscape of Sri Lanka, providing rural children with the opportunity to excel in both academics and sports, and contributing to the nation's development.
