College History

Henry Steel Olcott

Henry Steel Olcott, the visionary founder of Maliyadeva College, Sri Lanka, established the institution in 1888. A distinguished educationist and co-founder of the Theosophical Society, Olcott's commitment to fostering holistic education left an enduring legacy, shaping the school's ethos and contributing to its prominence in the region.

Anagarika Dharmapala

Anagarika Dharmapala, a pivotal co-founder of Maliyadeva College in 1888, played a crucial role in shaping the institution's values. A prominent Buddhist revivalist, Dharmapala's dedication to education and cultural resurgence greatly influenced the school's foundation, emphasizing Buddhist principles and fostering intellectual growth.

Major Milestones

1988 - College Founded

TFounded as Kurunegala Buddhist Institution by the Buddhist Theosophical Society, led by Colonel Henry Steel Olcott and Maha-Vidane Semenaries A. Bamunu-Arachchige.

1908 - First 100 Students

School relocated to Ethkanda Viharaya along the Kandy-Kurunegala road.

1909 - Relocated

A modern campus with state-of-the-art facilities was inaugurated.

1922 - Change of Management

Management transferred to the Young Men's Buddhist Association (YMBA), and Dr. H.K.T. Zilva became the new manager.

1927 - Remaned : Maliyadeva College

The school renamed 'Maliyadeva College' in honor of Arahant Maliyadeva, the last Arahath thero.

1941 - Mixed School

P. De S. Kularatne turned the school into a mixed institution.

1942 - Temporary Relocated

Due to WWII, the school buildings were taken over by the Army, and the school temporarily relocated back to Ethkanda Viharaya.

1944 - Maliyadeva Girls' College

The primary section moved to a new location along Colombo-Kurunegala Road, forming Maliyadeva Girls' College.

1946 - Government-Assisted School

Maliyadeva College became a Government-Assisted School. Boys moved back, and Maliyadeva Girls' College operated as a separate school.

1949 - Grade 1 Achived

The school upgraded to Grade 1 status. University Entrance (Arts) and SSC (Science) classes began.

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