St. Benedict’s College Marks 160 Years with Spectacular UK Gala Celebration

St. Benedict’s College, one of Sri Lanka’s most esteemed Catholic educational institutions, is set to celebrate its remarkable 160th anniversary in 2025. To mark this milestone, the UK alumni association, Old Bens UK, is hosting the prestigious Big Ben Nite; a grand Gala Dinner Dance on 1st March 2025 at the Delta Hotels by Marriott in Windsor, United Kingdom. This landmark event aims to raise funds for vital development projects at the College, with a special focus on the newly established STEM Education Centre, designed to provide students with cutting-edge learning opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Over the years, St. Benedict’s College has flourished through the unwavering support of its global alumni network. Old Bens UK, a non-profit organisation founded in 1991, has played a crucial role in funding key projects, including computer lab maintenance, infrastructure enhancements, the construction of a new swimming pool, the Clock Tower Project, and extensive support for the College’s sports programmes. This year’s Big Ben Nite continues that tradition of giving back, bringing together distinguished alumni and well-wishers for an evening of camaraderie and purpose.

The Big Ben Nite is set to be an unforgettable evening, welcoming a distinguished gathering of professionals from across the UK and Europe. This celebration is part of a global series of events marking St. Benedict’s Jubilee Year, which began in Colombo with a special service led by Rev. Fr. Darrel Coonghe, the unveiling of the 160th Jubilee Logo, and the grand opening of the STEM Education Centre. Subsequent celebrations have already taken place in Dubai (UAE) and Toronto (Canada), with London next in line before festivities move to Melbourne (Australia) and culminate in the grand finale; the Benedictine Dinner Dance in Colombo in December. The Jubilee celebrations also feature special sports tournaments, a vehicle parade, a musical show, and an international Benedictine gathering, uniting generations of Benedictines worldwide.

Adding to the glamour of the Big Ben Nite, the event will feature Sri Lankan celebrities Dushyanth Weeraman and Stephanie Siriwardhana, who will bring their signature charisma to the evening. Guests will also enjoy a night of exhilarating live music performed by Exceed, the UK’s premier Sri Lankan band. The Guest of Honour for the night will be Rev. Dr. Pubudu Rajapaksha, the current Director of St. Benedict’s College, who will grace the occasion alongside an array of distinguished guests. The organising committee is working tirelessly to curate an exceptional experience, ensuring an evening filled with nostalgia, celebration, and renewed commitment to the College’s future.

Beyond just a night of revelry, Big Ben Nite symbolises the enduring legacy of St. Benedict’s College and the strength of its global alumni network. As the College steps into its 160th year, this event serves as a powerful reminder of its commitment to excellence, innovation, and the nurturing of future generations. With its rich history and the unwavering support of its alumni, St. Benedict’s College continues to stand as a beacon of education, leadership, and community spirit.