Vijitha Weerasinghe: A mentor unparalleled
First death anniversary today:
Blood donation
The Royal College Group of '91 has organised a blood donation
campaign to commemorate the first death anniversary of Viji Weerasinghe
today from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Royal College Union Skills Centre.
Among the great men produced by a hallowed institution, which is
unique, was a man who stood greater than the rest.
Viji Weerasinghe renowned as one of (if not) the greatest Royalists
was a rare and exemplary character. A mere mortal like me is incompetent
to surmise his life and light with few words, yet let me brave the
challenge.
Viji had the rare opportunity of being closely attached to Royal for
a record 73 years. During this span he played many roles, from
schoolboy, teacher and Deputy Principal and advisor to Royal College
Union.
Many old boys move on with life stepping out of the Boake gates into
the real world they shoulder a myriad of different burdens. Viji devoted
all his time and energies towards his alma mater. College was his and
maintaining it became a full time job.
His vision forged Royal College anew, with a fusion of both old and
new the time honoured traditions and experiences along with new briefs
and trends.
Some might wonder why Vijitha was so involved in the day's activities
of school, even during his last days. Aged and quite feeble he still
came to office, never a minute late; never a day mussed a day missed.
The immense importance of his role in the school should not escape
mention. His hand guided many a policy of school administration. The
number of Principals, Deputy Principals and teachers, who drew wisdom
and inspiration, are too many to mention. He was the link between school
and authority and the Union and both parties gained immensely from his
patient mentoring.
Viji possessed a wealth of knowledge on Royal College. Having been an
integral part of it for over 70 years and having witnessed so much more,
one could always rely on Viji to provide an answer to a pressing
problem, or extend a helping hand and truly worthy advice. This ensured
that his office was never empty.
Looking back, we smile and reminisce all that was great and good
about him. It cannot fail to stab our hearts with pain to know that
never again will behold his angelic smile and words of courage and hope.
We really miss your presence as there is no one else who could advise
us on Royal College or Royal College Union matters as the way you did.
Yet our memories and learnings will last a lifetime and till then,
Sir your spirit will never leave one eternal home.
Rizan Nazeer,
Secretary,
Royal College Union.
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