Fifty years unbroken service in a prestigious educational institution is a rare feat. Mrs. Stella Dandeniya achieved this as the 15th Principal of Musaeus College, Colombo, on 10 May 2016. She then continued to preside over the school’s quasquicentennial celebrations, which ended with a special assembly on 10 November 2016, to coincide with the launch of the 125th Anniversary publication. The farewell accorded to her on 28 April this year, marks the formal ending of an era of service that is remarkable, not only for its diversity of contribution to the school’s progress, but also adaptability to the challenges that rapid social reforms and globalization posed to imparting a Buddhist education to the girl child.
Her progressive rise from a vibrant teacher to the post of Principal at the same school is truly commendable. While the road to the top was not easy, her commitment and dedication towards all activities she was entrusted, enabled her to forge forward and accomplish her goal with much enthusiasm and passion, which I recollect with awe and respect.
When starting my school career at Musaeus I recall her as an immaculately dressed, enthusiastic young teacher, who dedicated herself towards supporting us hostellers reach good grades and academic performance. The then Principal, Mrs. Dulcei De Silva was quick in assessing this ability of Ms. Stella Perera and appointed her to the regular staff to initially teach Civics and History in the Middle School followed by Political Science and Economics for Advanced Level students. All of this was easy work for her, fresh from a successful school career, followed by a Degree in Arts from the University of Peradeniya. She was determined to impart her knowledge to us students, although it was, at times, a daunting task. She had a love for sports too and often joined us at netball during our recreation time at the school hostel, and her love for aesthetics was quite evident during drama, singing and cultural events.
From 1981 to 2008 Mrs. Dandeniya progressed from Sectional Head to Vice Principal to Deputy Principal, and was appointed Principal in 2009. Her success in reaching this pinnacle was based on the invaluable experience she gained working with five successive Principals whom she always mentions with gratitude. Like me, many students who were coached by her over the years, who are also professionals in the present corporate world, will testify to her single-minded commitment to produce the best students with best results.
Post leaving school, I continued to work with her in the Past Pupils’ Association, and perfectionist that she is, it was difficult to keep pace when organizing events. The love she had for the school was evident in simple things I observed – like nonstop cheering when the giant school flag was unfurled at the Founders’ Walk last year, the excitement in getting everybody to sing the 125th year anthem with gusto and also the controlled desire to allow students to enjoy themselves,while maintaining discipline. I also observed that her stress reliever on most days were the younger students, whom she interacted with, in her regular walkabouts when the school was in session and who would innocently summon her to ask her name or to sing a lullaby to their dolls.
The discipline she inculcated was strikingly displayed when a power failure plunged the school auditorium to absolute darkness on the annual prize day 2015, where an audience of 1,600 students and parents, with 300 teachers on stage sat in pin drop silence for over 15 minutes while she continued to read the Principal’s report using the light of a mobile phone. Testimony to discipline instilled by her in maintaining decorum at a crisis. At that time, she reminded us about the uncertainties in life and to be courageous.
She knew the length and breadth of Musaeus College and the capabilities of the staff, students and past pupils. I always admired the compassionate and concerned humane qualities of this strict educationist.With her record breaking career of 50 years and being part of the school’s 75th, 100th and 125th year celebrations , she achieves the distinction of being the longest serving staff member of Musaeus College in its 125 year history – a record that will never be broken!!
As the President of the Musaeus College Past Pupils’ Association,her guidance and active participation, has always inspired us. It was never too late for us to learn lessons on punctuality and loyalty to our Alma Mater. It will take us some time to come to terms with her absence.
We thank Mrs. Dandeniya for dedicating the best part of her life to instil knowledge, sense of religion and culture to thousands of students who entered the portals of Musaeus College during the past 51 years. The knowledge and skills we have gained from her will be used in building a greater nation. You have made a lasting impression on the world through the lives of the students you have guided.
Best wishes on your retirement. Enjoy a rest that’s overdue. Take pleasure in the finer things that are awaiting you!
Sukee dheeghau ko bhava…
– Sherine Ameresekere