It is with great pleasure and enthusiasm that I extend my warmest greetings to every member of the Dhammissara School community. As the newly appointed Principal, I am deeply honored to join such a prestigious institution with a rich history of academic excellence, character development, and community engagement.
I am keenly aware of the responsibility entrusted to me, and I am committed to upholding and advancing the values and traditions that define Dhammissara School. With a focus on fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment, my foremost priority is the holistic development and well-being of our students. I firmly believe that education extends beyond the classroom, encompassing intellectual growth, character formation, and the cultivation of essential life skills.
I am also dedicated to collaborating closely with our esteemed faculty and staff, recognizing their invaluable contributions to our students’ academic and personal growth. Together, we will work tirelessly to inspire and empower our students to excel academically, to pursue their passions ardently, and to become compassionate and responsible members of society.
As we embark on this journey together, I encourage each member of the Dhammissara School family to embrace the spirit of collaboration, resilience, and innovation. Let us seize every opportunity to learn, to grow, and to make a positive difference in the lives of others and in the world around us.
I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and am confident that, together, we will achieve new heights of excellence and success. I look forward to getting to know each of you and to working hand in hand to realize our shared vision for Dhammissara School.
With warm regards,
Mr. K. D. C Ruwan Kumara
The Principal
Dhammissara National School
Mr. K. D. C Ruwan Kumara
The Principal
Dhammissara National School
Mr. R.P.I. Pathmasiri
Deputy Principle
Mrs. K.Prabha Priyadharshani
Deputy Principle
Mr. Ranga Thewarapperuma
Deputy Principle
Mrs. S.L Padmini
Deputy Principle
Deputy Principle
A comprehensive citizen enriched from Dhammissara Madhya Maha Vidyalaya to the Global Village.
Stimulating the students with knowledge, attitudes, skills, thinking and social abilities, utilizing with competency development education with curriculum and co-curricular activities for the betterment of future to explore innovative.
Indeed, Nattandiya Dhammissara National School has garnered widespread recognition as one of the main educational institutions within the Chilaw educational zone in the Puttalam district of Sri Lanka. Its reputation for academic excellence and holistic development has made it a cornerstone of education in the region, serving as a beacon of learning for students and a source of pride for the community.
The story commences in 1913 with the establishment of Dhammissara, initially as A.V. School with just 15 students. Situated adjacent to a lively oil mill along the Nattandiya Walahapitiya main road, the school’s modest inception signaled the start of a legacy destined to span generations. During the tenure of its first principal, Mr. Mendis, from 1913 to 1919, A.V. School established the bedrock for educational excellence. Mr. Mendis’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment established the school’s core values, prioritizing academic excellence, character cultivation, and active community involvement.
As a consequence of advancements and enhancements in education by 1920, A.V. School experienced a surge in student enrollment. Additionally, many students from neighboring schools chose to transfer to A.V. School to pursue higher grades, reflecting the growing reputation and academic standards of the institution.
Following its distinction as one of the pioneering 12 bilingual schools in Sri Lanka, leading to its renaming as “Government Bilingual School”. The acceptance of the English language as a core subject and the unique status of being the sole English medium school in the North-Western Province attracted numerous students to receive their education at Government Bilingual School. Additionally, the presence of Catholic schools such as Kurunegala St. Anne’s College, St. Mary’s College Chilaw, and Negombo Maris Stella College in the region, coupled with diverse opinions, led to a decline in enrollment at Government Bilingual School, with the student population dropping to approximately 60 by 1930.
During this challenging period, when the school faced closure, a pivotal decision was made to preserve the existence of an English medium school. Then Mr. Peter Jayasinghe was appointed as a principal instead of Mrs.Jeevandara, the principal at that time. Consequently, the institution came to be recognized as “Nattandiya Mixed School,” ensuring the continuation of English medium education in the area.
It’s noted that in 1947, Mr. Attanayake, followed by Mr. Perera in 1948, both dedicated their services as principals to the school, contributing significantly to its growth and development during their respective tenures.
By 1953, the student population of the school had grown to 183. The appointment of Mr. Douglas Bogahakanda as principal on January 1, 1953, marked a significant milestone in the school’s journey, heralding the onset of a golden era. It’s widely believed that under his leadership from 1953 to 1960, numerous effective programs were initiated, laying the groundwork for the school’s continued progress. During this period, the institution was known as “Rajayei Kanishta Vidyalaya” and later in 1955, it was renamed “Rajayei Kanishta Dwithika Widhyalaya”.
Following new government regulations in 1956, the English education system was phased out. As a result, in 1958, the school underwent a name change and was renamed “Nattandiya Rajayei Maha Vidyalaya” to align with the evolving educational landscape and emphasize a shift towards vernacular education.
During the 1960s, the “Nattandiya Rajayei Maha Vidyalaya” gained widespread popularity across the Northwestern Province due to its remarkable achievements in all-island sports. Furthermore, a pivotal moment in the school’s history occurred when, for the first time ever, two students from the Puttalam district were selected to university based on their performance in the Advanced Level examination held on December 4th, 1960. This milestone marked a significant turning point in Dhammissara’s journey as “Nattandiya Rajayei Maha Vidyalaya”.
The name “Dhammissara” was added to the school in 1963 as a special event of this time. Narawila Dhammissara thero, who held the title of grant convenor of the Northwestern Province at that time, was an exemplary leader and provided excellent service to the cultural and educational sector of the North Western Province, and on the proposal of the School Teachers’ Association, the school was named after “Dhammissara”.
Following Mr. Percy Boy’s tenure, Dhammissara School continued to be guided by several esteemed leaders who contributed significantly to its development. Finally, on August 5, 1994, Dhammissara attained the prestigious status of a National School, marking a significant milestone in its history.
| Duration | Name of the Leader |
|---|---|
| 1968 - 1969 | Mr. C. B Bibile |
| 1969 - 1970 | Mr. Percy Boy |
| 1970 - 1977 | Mr. S M Somarathne |
| 1977 - 1990 | Mr. K. M. P Ranweera |
| 1991 - 1998 | Mr. D. W. M. S Bandaara |
| 1998 - 2001 | Mr. E.A.S.P Edirisinghe |
| 2001 - 2006 | Mr. W.M.R Silva |
| 2006 - 2014 | Mr. R. K. J. Gunasekara |
| 2014 - 2015 | Mr. Saman Wijesekara |
| 2015 - 2018 | Mr. D. Sumathipala Silva |
| 2018 - 2021 | Mr. S. A. Anil Pushpakumara |
| 2021 - 2024 | Mr. S. A. N. D Siyambalapitiya |
| 2024 (Present) | Mr. K. D. C Ruwan Kumara |
Dhammissara College, with its rich history dating back to its humble beginnings in 1913, has evolved remarkably over the decades. From starting as a modest school with just 15 students, it has transformed into a beacon of educational excellence and holistic development. Today, Dhammissara College stands tall not only in terms of academic achievements but also in its state-of-the-art infrastructure and outstanding sports accomplishments. This transformation mirrors the school’s unwavering commitment to nurturing young minds and fostering a dynamic learning environment that bridges the past’s legacy with the future’s aspirations.
Dhammissara College’s dedication to academic excellence is evident in its impressive results over the years. The school’s performance in national examinations has been noteworthy, reflecting the quality of education and the effectiveness of its teaching methodologies. The Ordinary Level (O/L) exams have seen a remarkable upward trend in pass rates: 69% in 2020, 64% in 2021, and a significant leap to 97% in 2022. Similarly, the Advanced Level (A/L) results have consistently been strong, with pass rates of 77% in both 2020 and 2022, and 76% in 2021. Notably, in 2022, 81% of A/L students were eligible for university entrance, highlighting the school’s success in preparing students for higher education and future careers. These achievements are a testament to the dedication of both students and faculty, as well as the robust educational framework that Dhammissara College has developed over the years.
In addition to its academic success, Dhammissara College has made significant strides in enhancing its infrastructure. The development of a standard indoor stadium, currently under construction, is set to provide students with a modern facility for sports and other extracurricular activities. This addition underscores the school’s commitment to fostering physical fitness and sporting excellence among its students. The introduction of smart classrooms, equipped with the latest educational technology, has revolutionized the learning experience, making it more interactive and engaging. These classrooms facilitate innovative teaching methods that cater to the diverse learning needs of students. Furthermore, the establishment of a dedicated technology building ensures that students are well-equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital age. The school’s campus is also enriched with standard volleyball courts and various other playgrounds, supporting a broad range of athletic pursuits and encouraging a healthy, active lifestyle.
Dhammissara College has a proud tradition of excellence in sports, highlighted by significant national and international achievements. Volleyball, in particular, has brought great honor to the school, with Maleesha Ravishan and Manjula Raveen being selected to represent Sri Lanka at the Central Asian Games. This achievement reflects the high level of training and dedication within the school’s sports programs. Additionally, Mahela Indeewara has made his mark in world sports, showcasing the talent nurtured at Dhammissara. In chess, Sawithi Danara achieved the status of All-Island Runner-Up and will represent Sri Lanka at the World School Championship 2024 in Peru, further enhancing the school’s reputation on the international stage. Our students have also excelled in various other sports, achieving all-island recognition in chess, karate, and netball. The school’s vibrant sports culture is complemented by achievements in debating, with Senuri Rathnayake standing out as a popular debater from the Puttalam district. These accomplishments underscore Dhammissara College’s commitment to developing well-rounded individuals who excel both academically and in extracurricular activities.
Dhammissara College’s journey from a small school to a prestigious institution is a testament to its enduring legacy of excellence. The school’s continuous improvement in educational outcomes, infrastructure, and sports achievements reflects its commitment to providing a holistic education that prepares students for future challenges. As Dhammissara College continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to nurturing talent, fostering innovation, and upholding the values that have made it a beacon of educational excellence.
Choosing the right educational institution is a critical decision for any student and their family. Dhammissara College stands out as an exceptional choice due to its comprehensive approach to education, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and outstanding achievements in sports and academics.