Villagers’ effort revives Sirisarasavi Primary School

By Hemalatha Hewage   

Batapothaela Sirisarasavi Primary School in Giriulla, established in 1957 and nestled in the scenic countryside of Narangoda, has overcome near closure to emerge once again as a leading primary school in the area.   

The school, which once produced many scholars and distinguished personalities in various fields, faced the threat of closure due to dwindling student numbers amid growing demand for national and popular schools. However, thanks to the tireless efforts of villagers, it was reopened in 2013 under the leadership of local social worker N.A. Karunaratne.   

When the school reopened, an experienced teacher Mrs. D.P.R.S. Dinapurna assumed duties as Principal. Under her guidance, the student population grew to 150, and the school regained its reputation as a model primary school before her retirement. She was succeeded by Principal Pradeep Wijesundara, and later by the present head, Saman Priyantha.   

Within a short period after its revival, the school has produced hundreds of students excelling in both academics and extracurricular activities. According to Principal Priyantha, several students have passed the Grade Five Scholarship Examination each year. This year, six out of 20 candidates were successful.   

Among them, H.A. Niasha Manodya scored 179 marks, H.M. Uren obtained 160, and G. Sadev Sanduni achieved 154, qualifying for admission to national schools. The principal attributed this success to the dedicated efforts of the teaching staff.