In 2024, there was a lot of excitement among the scouts of Sri Lanka as they looked forward to the 10th National Scout Jamboree, which was happening after 8 years. This event brings together all the scouts from across Sri Lanka to one camp. This lively quadrennial event is a significant milestone in a scout’s life and happens every four years. The senior scout troop, led by Troop Leader Mast. Kaveen Senanayake, with 25 members representing the 17th Kandy Trinity College Scout Troop, was lucky to be part of this special experience. On February 20th, we arrived at school at 3:30 am and departed by bus at 4:30 am for the Sri Koneshwara Hindu College Grounds in Trincomalee. After a brief rest at Kanthale Lake Bund, we continued our journey. By 10:15 am, we reached the campsite and started setting up our tents. On the 21st of February, the second day of the Jamboree commenced with an 8:00 am inspection for cleanliness and smartness, followed by the opening ceremony at 9:30 am with the chief guest, President Ranil Wickramasinghe. At 3:30 pm, the ‘Friendship Wide Game’ took place at sub camp level. By 6:30 pm, the Sri Lanka Army entertained the scouts with a cultural show, while at 9:30 pm, the Jamboree Ground was filled with joy and excitement thanks to an unforgettable musical performance by the Sri Lanka Navy. On the 22nd of February, the third day of the camp, kicked off with a 6:30 am Road Race, followed by a daily rally from the 22nd to the 25th at 8:30 am. At 9:30 am, the daily Jamboree activities commenced. Later, at 5:00 pm, a kite festival, followed by the BP Day Ceremony at 6:00 pm, celebrated the founder of the Scouting Movement, Lord Robert Stephenson Smyth Baden Powell. The Jamboree Ground was illuminated with Vesak Buckets lit by scouts as a tribute to Lord Baden Powell. The 23rd of February, the fourth day of the Jamboree, known as Cultural Day, followed the usual routine with the Rally and Jamboree activities. At 7:00 pm, the Sub Campfire showcased the aesthetic talents of young scouts, with our troop leader representing the Kandy district lighting the campfire. Saturday, 24th of February, began with the usual morning routine, followed by additional Jamboree activities at 2:00 pm, organized by the committee to provide valuable knowledge and life skills. At 7:00 pm, the International and National Cultural Shows delighted us with vibrant displays of various cultures from countries like Maldives, India, Thailand, South Korea, USA, Australia, and England. On February 25th, after the usual morning routine, the “Piyawara – Green World” Community Development Project took place at 9:30 am. The closing ceremony occurred at 5:30 pm, followed by an open-air display marking the official conclusion of the Jamboree by 7:00 pm. Our scout troop celebrated the last day with hours of joyful singing. On the 7th and the last day of the Jamboree, the 26th of February, a campsite inspection was held and everybody departed from the Jamboree Grounds by 12.30 pm taking back unforgettable memories to last a lifetime. On the way back to school, we had the opportunity to visit a Navy camp and observe all the naval equipment at the Naval Museum. Then, we went on a boat ride within the harbor, organized by the Sri Lankan Navy. Written by Theshan RathnayakeReviewed by Kaveen Senanayake (TL)
Reviewed by Thisal Rajapakse The Young Inventors’ and Researchers’ Club of Trinity College, in collaboration with the Library Council, launched a series of workshops, titled, ‘Inquiring Minds’ Workshops’, to encourage young students to support their inquiring minds to further engage in innovation, creativity, critical thinking and problem solving. The first lecture in the series was held on May 27th at the Napier Multipurpose Arena. Titled, ‘An Introduction to Research Methodology,’ the workshop was about the foundation and substance of research. Dr. Kumudu Kopiyawattage, an esteemed Senior Lecturer from the Department of Agricultural Extension of the University of Peradeniya, served as our special guest lecturer and guide, leading students from the middle and upper sections alike, on an extremely informative and interactive journey, exploring the essence of research. In the simple span of 2 hours, Dr. Kumudu managed to explain the basic essence of research and managed to entrap the audience in a world of endless possibilities. Helping to foster future researchers, this one workshop impacted all those who attended and imparted to them many facets of research, that will forever serve them in their future endeavors. This being the first of a series of equally enthralling and captivating workshops, we can only wait in anticipation for what the future may hold.
Reviewed by Rehan Anandakumar In a vibrant display of culture and tradition, Trinity College marked the 105th edition of its Muthamizh Vizha on the 3rd of May 2024. The longstanding celebration of Tamil heritage brought together students, faculty, and community members in a joyous commemoration of language, arts, and music. At the heart of the festivities stood Dr. Mrs. S.R. Thevar, a luminary in Tamil academia. His presence as the Former Faculty Head and Senior Lecturer of Tamil Language at the University of Peradeniya, echoed pride among the gathering. Her distinguished legacy infused the occasion with a sense of honour and scholarly pursuit. The theme of this year’s event was, ‘Agriculture (மருத நிலம்)’ that influenced the vibrant stage decorations. The event commenced with the echo of the Tamizh Thaai Vaazhthu, voicing out pride and reverence for the Tamil motherland. An introductory video, providing a view into the Tamil culture and its significance, set the stage. Amidst a warm welcome, the audience was greeted with a captivating Welcome Dance, a vibrant portrayal of Tamil tradition followed by the speech of the Master-In-Charge Mr.S.Kobikirushna, that paved the way for a brilliant ensemble of events. The highlight of the evening was the recognition of academic excellence, as students from guest schools were honoured for their performances at the inter-school competitions held the previous week. Among the standout performances was a soulful solo song by Master. Shane Yeshel, who captivated the audience with his melodious voice which portrayed the unique cultural vibes of the Tamil community. The artistic flair of Trinity College students was on full display with a riveting Drama by Grade 11 students, which without a doubt was a pulse pounding rollercoaster of emotions as it portrayed the hardships that a farmer must face in his life. This theme resonated in a mesmerizing dance by the students of grade 13. A collective harmony reverberated through a Group Song, as students united in a musical celebration, followed by the grand launch of the Thirithvodayam Magazine, a testament to the literary prowess of the Tamil community within Trinity College. The audience listened to the soul-melting tunes of a song sung by the multifaceted Mr.Ravindran, from TCK’s staff. The evening reached its pinnacle with a mesmerizing Seetha Bagaranam Dance Drama, a masterpiece that transported spectators to the realms of myth and mystery. For the first time, the 2nd Language Tamil students added their voices to the celebration with a beautiful group song, symbolizing unity and the cultural diversity at Trinity. Then, our principal Father Araliya Jayasundara expressed in Tamil, his sentiments of pride and admiration for the student’s achievements, which was indeed a highlight and a spectacle to watch, Next up was the grade 14 concept dance which was not just a dance but a debate between modern and traditional melodies which impressed the guests as this gave out important life lessons to the audience. The most awaited speech from our Chief Guest Dr.Mrs.S.R.Thevar, added a touch of wisdom, inspiring the next generation to embrace their cultural heritage with pride. The ceremony concluded with a Documentary Video, offering a glimpse into the historical and contemporary significance of Tamil culture, followed by a heartfelt Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the event. As the curtains fell on another memorable Muththamizh Vizha, Trinity College reaffirmed its commitment to preserving and celebrating the rich legacy of Tamil culture, ensuring that its echoes resonate for generations to come.
Reviewed by Rehan Anandakumar On an island that is home to more than 248 species of butterflies, it is an imperative to educate the younger generation on the beauty and unmatched significance of these wonderful creatures. Therefore, we were fortunate to have the pleasure of hearing from Dr. George Michael Van der Poorten, a distinguished old boy of Trinity College Kandy and one of the best lepidopterists in Sri Lanka, who has dedicated his life to learning and researching about these creatures for more than four decades. On the 2nd of March 2024, Dr. George Michael Van der Poorten, along with his wife, Dr. Nancy Van der Poorten, visited the Junior School and delivered a talk on butterflies for students of the Nature Club from grades four to six. Commencing at around nine thirty in the morning, a valuable and thrilling flow of information and interaction continued until eleven O’ clock at the Oorloff block. It was an interactive talk, educating enthusiastic students on different species of butterflies, their special abilities and significance to nature, while also challenging the students to think critically about the world and environment they inhabit. Undoubtedly, every student present at the session gained invaluable knowledge about these winged wonders. It was a rare opportunity to learn from the best of the best. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Indu Gunawardena for the initiative in inviting such a seasoned expert on behalf of the students of the Nature Club of Trinity College Kandy to enrich their learning experience. We would also like to thank Mrs. Dilrukshi Dunuweera for the help and support extended towards this programme.
Reviewed by – S.Dilrukshan AUDAX VII, hosted by the Astronomical Society of Maliyadeva College Kurunegala, was an enjoyable platform on which TCK’s young astronomers showcased their skills in various competitions. Quiz Team Success Trinity College’s Astronomical quiz team demonstrated exceptional knowledge and strategic thinking, when they secured a commendable 3rd place among numerous schools. Nalanda College Colombo attained 1st place and Dharmaraja College Kandy was placed 2nd in the quiz competition. Team TCK showcased their expertise in astronomy, quick reflexes, and cosmic awareness. The quiz team members were tasked with individual quiz papers, through which each participant’s proficiency contributed to Trinity College’s outstanding performance. Their remarkable achievement propelled Trinity College to the forefront of the competition. Quiz Team: 1. P. Thalagahawatte – Astrophysics 2. T. Humrushan – Rocketry 3. D.C.D. Jayasinghe – General Astronomy 4. T.R. Dayarathne – Observation Astronomy 5. S. Dilrukshan – Cosmology Dynamic Contribution of the Members of the Workshop Simultaneously, Trinity College’s workshop team, with five enthusiastic members demonstrated practical skills and a passion for astronomy. Engaging in hands-on activities, this versatile team added a creative and experimental dimension to AUDAX VII, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the event. Workshop Team Members were: 1. R.A.N.N.I Ranathunga 2. M. Hamzah 3. T. Kabishith 4. G. Kriteeshkar 5. S. Tennekoon The 10-member Trinity contingent enriched the overall experience, bringing forth a holistic approach to astronomical education. In both the cerebral challenges of the quiz and the practical aspects of the workshop, Trinity College demonstrated its dedication. The team convey their heartfelt gratitude towards their teacher Mr.Hasitha Nissankarchchi and parent Mr. Prabath Dayaratne for their invaluable support during AUDAX VII in accompanying them to the venue. Their invaluable support was the key to the teams’ success. TCK applauds the collective effort, of all the members of the Astronomical Society, and eagerly anticipate their continued excellence in future astronomical endeavors.
by M.H. Hamzah After an epic journey, exploring the vast mysteries of the cosmos, the junior team of the Astronomical Society of Trinity College was able to secure the runners-up position in Star Party ’24, South Asia’s first and largest annual night sky observation competition and Astronomical workshop presented by the Anandian Astronomical Association in collaboration with the Astronomical Society of Mahamaya Girls’ College, Kandy. The first rustle of the star party began a week before the actual night, as the team attentively listened to the online lectures in order to compete in the Quiz. After 5 continuous days of lectures and assessments, the Juniors secured the 1st place in the online assessment, which was the first phase of the Star Party 24. The most exciting night everyone awaited finally arrived, on the 2nd of February at 4.00 PM, when the team gathered at the Geography Block of the University of Peradeniya. The team composition was as follows: TCK’s young astronomers were fortunate to have a crystal-clear sky that welcomed them with its dazzling stars. The jaw-dropping view of Jupiter through the telescope was incomparable. The spark of Jupiter’s moons, Europa, followed by the grey rocky Ganymede, and then Calisto, added beauty to the view. The knowledge gained by the team all these days in different fields of astronomy was put to the test by a spot test, viva round and MCQ. Trinity College emerged runners-up, after Seevali College Ratnapura. At dawn after the team had gathered at the university ground to witness the launching of water rockets, the results were announced with Trinity College’s emerging runners-up, after Seevali College, Ratnapura. The young astrophiles having filled their minds with the wonders hidden in the sky returned with an incredible achievement. The Astronomical Society of Trinity College is proud of their juniors and wishes them all the best in future endeavors. A special note of thanks goes to Dr Viduranga Waisundara, who accompanied the students throughout the night during the competition.
Reviewed by Dulith Cooray Trinity College has always been a hub for talented artists, and this year’s Inter-house Art Competition proved just that. Hosted on the 5th of April at the Abeyratne-Jeyaraj terrace and the Napier corridor, the event welcomed enthusiastic participants from both the Upper School and Middle School divisions. It is certain that Trinity has a long standing tradition of fostering, appreciating and preserving the artistic talents of Trinitians past and present. The introduction of The David Paynter Memorial Trophy; a new accolade given to the house that rise victorious from the competition; added a special significance to this competition, honoring the memory of such a notable Trinity artist. Along with this, the young aspiring artist from each category who proved himself worthy of being the best from the best is awarded the title of ‘The Best Artist of The Year’ along with a medal entangled with its very much deserving bragging rights. This year the competition gave its first priority to the minds of the artists allowing them to let their imagination run wild through each brush stroke on their canvases, without restricting them to any theme or subject matter. This not only celebrated artistic expression but also promoted a sense of camaraderie and healthy competition among the houses. The atmosphere during the competition was filled with excitement, as students and teachers eagerly participated and supported their respective houses which reflected the vibrant artistic community here at Trinity College. The much-anticipated results are as follows, Middle School Grade 6 -7 category 1st Place – P.G.M.H. Gunarathna Squealary House 2nd Place – W.M.S.D.B.Dranagama (Sahayam House) 3rd Place – Bometh Niklesh Kumarasir (Saunders House) 4th Place – Gayindu Ariyarathna (Pilcher House) 5th Place – K.D.O.C.Dewapriya (Pilcher House) Grade 8-9 category 1st Place – S.M.R.B.Samarathunga (Gibson House) 2nd Place – B.A. Nejan (Gibson House) 3rd Place – K.G.U.F.Amarasena (Gibson) 4th Place – Jayith Wijerathna (Squealary House) 5th Place – Dulina Amarasooriya (Squealary House) Upper School Grade 10-11 category 1st Place – W.L.S.M. Welangoda (Central Boarding House) 2nd Place – T.A. Amarasingha (Simithraaratchi House) 3rd Place – R.Randil Kumarasiri (Central Boarding House) 4th Place – Savin Danthasinghe (Oorloff House) 5th Place – J.A.J.S. Jayasingha (Oorloff House) Grade 12 and above category 1st Place – D.C Cooray (Lemuel House) 2nd Place – T.S Wickramasingha (Garret House) 3rd Place – Charitrh Ekanayaka (Oorloff House) 4th Place – Navindu Jayasingha (Oorloff House) 5th Place – Nimsara Bandara (Oorloff House) Overall House Results Middle School 1st Place – Gibson House 2nd Place – Squealary House 3rd Place – Sahayam House 4th Place – Saunders House 5th Place – Pilcher House Upper School 1st Place – Central Boarding House 2nd Place – Oorloff House 3rd Place – Lemuel House 4th Place – Garret House and Simithraaratchy House None of this would have been possible without the endless artistic guidance and supervision of our very own Mr. Saman Ratnayake; the Mater in charge of the Trinity College Art Circle and the tireless commitment of Mast. Nilanga Meegahakumbura and his team of excellent colleagues comprised of Mast. Oshitha Dealwis, Mast. Amar Abdullah, Mast. Seth Wickramanayaka, Mast. Visura Ariyawansa, Mast. Minidu Navarathna and Mast. Charith Ekanayaka, without whom the competition would not have matched up to this level of splendor. Last but certainly not least, a special shout-out goes to the Coordinator of the Arts for Life Aesthetic Forum, Mr. Kanishka Samarasundara and the Director of the Trinity College Co-Curricular Enrichment Initiative, Mr. Wasana Dissanayake for their incredible contribution in making this event a success in such a caliber. Overall, the Inter-house Art Competition was a resounding success, reaffirming Trinity’s commitment to nurturing and recognizing the talents of its students in the realm of art.
Reviewed by Shaluka Herath The 105th edition of the Hill Country Battle of the Blues took place on the 15th and 16th of March. Despite the match resulting in a draw, the organization of the event emerged victorious. A pivotal factor in this success was the comprehensive PR campaign and live streaming of this encounter by the Trinity College Media Unit, under the guidance of Trinity College’s PROMWEB. This achievement was the culmination of months of tireless effort by dedicated students and staff who worked relentlessly day and night in preparation for the event. While live streaming was active in previous years, the 2024 edition proved to be the most successful production to date. Powered by Dialog, the live coverage of this much-awaited match garnered an impressive total of 92,000 views across all platforms, receiving additional exposure on national television via the Papare Channel. The production crew, composed of both current and past members of the Trinity College Media Unit, persevered through long hours under challenging weather conditions, to ensure a seamless broadcast. The team contributed expertise in various domains such as videography, graphics, photography, and commentary, showcasing promising talent in these fields. The unsung heroes of the school were appreciated for their efforts with a well-deserved night of fellowship on April 5th, during which, they were honored with a felicitation ceremony followed by a complimentary dinner, generously provided by the Principal Rev. Araliya Jayasundara and the college administration. This gesture serves as a token of appreciation, not only for their invaluable contributions to the Big Match but also for their unwavering dedication in recording and promoting school events. Videography Photography Commentary Graphics
பங்குனி மாதம் 19ம் திகதி, 2024 அன்று எங்கள் கல்லூரி வரலாற்றில் முதல் முறையாக நடைபெற்ற இல்லங்களுக்கிடையேயான தமிழ் விவாதப் போட்டியின் முடிவுகளைப் பகிர்வதில் மட்டற்ற மகிழ்ச்சி அடைகின்றோம். தமது அதீத விவாதத் திறனை வெளிப்படுத்திய சென்ட்ரல் போர்டிங் ஹவுஸ் வெற்றிக்கிண்ணத்தை சுவீகரித்துக்கொண்டது. இறுதிச் சுற்று வரை தகுதி பெற்று தமது வாதத்தை சிறப்பாக முன்வைத்த Garret இல்லத்தினர் இரண்டாம் இடத்தையும் பெற்றுக்கொண்டனர். இந்த நிகழ்வு, அறிவுசார் சொற்பொழிவு மற்றும் மொழியியல் சிறப்பை வளர்ப்பதில் எங்கள் மாணவர்களின் அசாதாரண திறமை மற்றும் அர்ப்பணிப்பு வெளிப்படுத்தியமை குறிப்பிடத்தக்கது. மேலும் இந்தப் போட்டியில் சிறந்த விவாதிகளாக சென்ரல் போடிங் ஹவுசைச் சேர்ந்த எஸ்.மேகலக்ஷன் மற்றும் Garret இல்லத்தைச் சேர்ந்த எஸ்.அகிலேஷ் ஆகியோர் தெரிவுசெய்யப்பட்டுள்ளனர். பேச்சுத்திறன், சிந்னைத்திறன் மற்றும் தமிழ் மொழி மற்றும் கலாச்சாரத்தின் மீதான மாணவர்களின் ஆர்வம் இந்த போட்டியின் சிறப்பை எடுத்தியம்பின.அர்ப்பணிப்பு மற்றும் கடின உழைப்பு இந்நிகழ்வின் வெற்றிக்கு மேலும் வலுவூட்டியது. இந்த நிகழ்வின் வெற்றிக்கு தமது பூரண ஒத்துழைப்பை நல்கிய பங்கேற்பாளர்கள், ஆசிரியர்கள் மற்றும் பாடசாலை நிர்வாகிகளுக்கு எமது மனமார்ந்த நன்றிகளை தெரிவித்துக் கொள்கிறோம்.இந்நிகழ்விற்காக தமது நேரத்தை ஒதுக்கி வருகை தந்து நடுவர்களாக கடமையாற்றிய K.M.அஹனாப் கலீல், R.J ஆன் மியூரிக்கா மற்றும் S.S. ரூபிணி ஆகியோருக்கு எமது மனமார்ந்த நன்றிகளை தெரிவித்துக் கொள்வதுடன், இனி வரும் காலங்களிலும் எமது கல்லூரி மாணவர்களின் திறமையை வளரப்பதில் தமிழ் இலக்கிய மன்றம் தமது பூரண ஆதரவை வழங்கும் என்பதில் எவ்வித ஐயமும் இல்லை. Thrilled to share the exciting results from the first-ever Inter House Tamil Debating Competition held on March 19, 2024, at our college auditorium. With great pride, Central Boarding House emerged as champions, with Garret House securing the runner-up position. This event showcased the exceptional talent and dedication of our students in fostering spirit of intellectual discourse and linguistic excellence. Among the outstanding participants, extend heartfelt congratulations to Master S. Megha Lakshan from Central Boarding House and Master S. Agilesh from Garret House for their remarkable achievement in being recognized as the best debaters in this competition. Eloquence, critical thinking skills, and passion for the Tamil language and culture exemplified the essence of this competition. Dedication and hard work serve as inspiration to peers and reflect the values of our institution. Express sincere appreciation to all participants, judges, faculty advisors, and staff members who contributed to the success of this event. Enthusiasm and support have been instrumental in making this competition a resounding success. We are looking forward to continuing to foster a culture of intellectual curiosity, linguistic diversity, and respectful debate within our college community.
By Rehan Anandakumar and Chaniru Senhas (Web Content Team) Trinity College, Kandy, is renowned for its impressive reputation in academics and sports. On the 7th of March 2024, the Cycling Club of Trinity College embarked on an exhilarating journey: “Road to Pallekele,” a testament to the college’s dedication to fostering a love for adventure and physical activity among her students. Starting punctually at 6:00 a.m., a group of 27 riders, led by the Trinity Cycling Club, set out from the TCK Swimming Pool, marking the beginning of a memorable excursion. Their destination? The TELA Cycling Track at Pallekele. The riders were treated to stunning views of Kandy’s verdant surroundings at every bend in the course, which wound through Mahaiyawa, Boowalikada, and Tennekumbura. Comradery deepened among the youngsters as they continued to pedal, sharing a love for adventure sans pollution. The riders stopped enroute to TELA for a well-earned snack break. Here, in the peaceful environs of a Summer Hut, they were treated to an insightful talk on bike repair by Mr. Dulanjaya Abeywickrama and Mr. Dhammika Bambaradeniya, respected old boys of the College. The workshop shed light on the necessity of routine maintenance to guarantee comfortable and secure journeys. After the educational seminar, the riders headed to the TELA Cycling Track to experience the excitement of riding on a difficult terrain. Every curve on the circuit offered them the chance to push their boundaries and test their talents, from heart-pounding hills to thrilling descents. The cyclists refuelled for the trip back to Trinity College with a well-earned lunch at the TELA, followed by a productive day of riding and exploring. After creating new memories and fortifying their relationships, the group made their way back to Kandy, ending their 47km long journey. As the sun began to set, the riders rolled back into Trinity College, their hearts full of triumph and satisfaction. The “Road to Pallekele” had been more than just a cycling event; it was a journey of camaraderie, adventure, and discovery. The Cycling Club would like to extend their gratitude to the TICs, Mr. Dulanjaya Abeywickrama and Mr. Wasana Dissanayake for their immense support in organizing this event.