Review by Sawin Danthasinghe (President, Ornithology Club-2026)
The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Trinity College Ornithology Club for 2025 was held on 22nd January 2026 at the Lakshman Kadirgamar Auditorium. The event marked an important milestone in the journey of the club, serving as a platform to reflect on an exceptional year of achievements while formally inaugurating the leadership and vision for the year 2026.
The gathering included the director of the Trinity College Co-Curricular Enrichment Initiative (TCCEI), Mr Wasana Dissanayake; representatives of the 17th Kandy Trinity College Scout Troop; the Media Unit; PROMWEB; members of the School Officers’ Guild; students; and well-wishers.
Proceedings began with a prayer led by the Teacher-in-Charge, followed by a welcome address from the Vice President, Master Abishan Shanthakumar. A highlight of the afternoon was the official unveiling of the Ornithology Club T-shirt, presented by Mr Wasana Dissanayake and Teacher Incharge .
The outgoing President, Master Seshaan Malarvannan, presented the Annual Report for 2025. He provided a comprehensive overview of the committee’s work, noting that preparation had begun as early as 2024. The report also highlighted the official club logo and the importance of systematic documentation, covering project proposals, financial records, and media archives.
The President detailed how the club remained self-sustained through well-planned initiatives. Milestone events such as the launch of ‘Feathers’ (a digital and physical photo album), ‘Avifauna Nexus ’25’, ‘Aviscope ’25’, and ‘Nest and Nibbles ’25’ were featured as examples of the club’s disciplined approach.
In recognition of their support, tokens of gratitude were presented to collaborators, including PROMWEB, the Media Unit, the School Officers’ Guild, the 17th Scout Troop of Trinity Collge Kandy, and the director of TCCEI.
The Teacher-in-Charge (TIC) Ms V.Priyanantha, in her review of the year, stated, “Some years are remembered, some years are recorded, and some years rise beyond memory to become legacy. The year 2025 belongs to that rare category. It was not merely a year of activity, but a year of transformation—where foundations were strengthened, horizons were expanded, and the identity of the Ornithology Club was elevated to a level that will be spoken of with pride for generations to come.”
She further emphasized that 2025 was a year shaped by hard work, commitment, sacrifice, accountability, and deep satisfaction, noting that the Ornithology Club had grown into a family rather than just a club. She especially appreciated the financial discipline maintained through the “We earn and spend” policy.
The Secretary for 2025, Master Sajeen Bandara handed over the document of the upcoming committee to the TIC, and a new three-tier administrative structure was introduced by the TIC:
- The Advisory Committee
- The Elected Committee
- The Supportive Crew Members
The Advisory Committee will consist of founding members of Masters Seshaan Malarvannan, Sajeen Bandara, and Yousuf Amar. Leadership was formally handed over as Master Seshaan presented the club emblem to the new President, Master Sawin Danthasinghe, while Master Sajeen Bandara handed the official logbook to the new Secretary, Master Krishnakumar Kanishkar.
The newly elected President presented the Annual Plan for 2026, followed by a speech of gratitude from the new Secretary. As a gesture of appreciation, tokens were presented to the outgoing committee by the newly appointed committee, acknowledging their leadership and dedication In a special moment, golden commemorative medals were awarded to the founders, Master Seshaan Malarvannan and Master Sajeen Bandara by the TIC, for their initiative in establishing the club in 2022.
The director of TCCEI addressed the gathering, commending the high standards maintained by the 2025 committee. He noted that the professional conduct of the AGM served as a benchmark for future student leaders highly appreciated the formation of the Advisory Committee, describing it as a forward-thinking initiative that strengthens the sustainability and continuity of the Ornithology Club. He noted that this structure is a novel and pioneering concept among school clubs and societies, and commended the committee for introducing a system that ensures long-term guidance, stability, and vision beyond annual leadership changes. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Master Sajeen Bandara.
