The Journey of Girandurukotte Central College

For over four decades, Girandurukotte Central College (B/Girandurukotte Madhya Maha Vidyalaya) has stood as a beacon of knowledge in the Mahaweli ‘C’ zone. As alumni, we look back with pride at the institution that shaped our lives and continue to honor its legacy as a cornerstone of education in the Badulla District.

A Visionary Beginning

The school was born out of the transformative Mahaweli Development Project, envisioned by the late Hon. Gamini Dissanayake. Recognizing the need for a central educational hub for the children of the newly settled Mahaweli families, the school was officially established on September 20, 1982.

At its inception, the college was a modest institution consisting of just three buildings and two teacher quarters. It opened its doors to a pioneering group of 274 students, guided by a dedicated staff of six teachers. Mr. M.A. Ananda served as the founding Principal, leading the school during its critical first days.

Growth and Infrastructure

A significant milestone in our history occurred on November 1, 1984, with the opening of the Assembly Hall and the main school building complex. This essential infrastructure was made possible through a generous grant from the European Economic Commission. The inauguration was a prestigious event, attended by Hon. Gamini Dissanayake, Hon. Capt. C.P.J. Seneviratne (M.P. for Mahiyangana), and other high-ranking officials from the Mahaweli Authority and the European Economic Commission.

Our Identity and Values

The spirit of our school is captured in our motto, "Utthitthena Pamajjaye". This call to diligence and mindfulness is echoed in our school song, "Siri Saru Siri Pada Sipa Ganimu," penned by Mr. Bandulasiri Hewagamage.

Our collective mission has always been clear: to produce disciplined, courageous, and skilled citizens endowed with human values—a generation ready to contribute productively to the nation.

Leadership Through the Years

The progress of Girandurukotte Central College has been steered by a line of dedicated Principals who served with distinction. We honor those who led us through the years:

  • M.A. Ananda (Founding Principal: 1982.09.20 – 1982.09.28 & 1998.02.24 – 1999.03.02)
  • K.H. Ranasinghe (1982.09.29 – 1984.05.30)
  • H.L. Dharmapala (1984.05.31 – 1985.01.23)
  • J.M. Jayasekara (1985.01.24 – 1986.01.19 & 1986.11.30 – 1990.06.30)
  • Major Silva (1986.01.20 – 1986.11.30)
  • D.M.W. Dissanayake (1990.07.01 – 1991.12.24)
  • K.M. Kankanawirathna (1991.12.15 – 1997.01.08)
  • H.M. Appuhamy (1997.01.09 – 1998.02.23)
  • R.M. Abhayabandara Ratnayake (1999.03.03 – 1999.03.10)
  • A.J.M. Dharmadasa (1999.03.11 – 2003.08.07)
  • M.M.C. Kularatne (2003.08.08 – 2006.08.07)
  • D.M. Samarakoon (2006.08.08 – 2019.08.14)
  • Mrs. U.K.L. Gunawardena (2019.08.15 – 2019.12.31)
  • R.M.K. Ratnayake (2019.12.31 – 2025.07.22)
  • RWSB Rajapaksha (2025.07.22 - Present)

A Message to Old Students

The Old Students' Association remains the vital link between our cherished past and the school's bright future. As we navigate the "Decades of Progress," let us unite to support our Alma Mater in her mission to nurture future generations.