Maliyadeva College, with a glorious history of more than 125 years is one of the leading public schools in Sri Lanka. It was established in the year of 1888, lead by Colonel Sir; Henry Steel Olcott and “Ven. Anagarika Dharmapala” as one of the leading Buddhist Schools in the island. But over the years it has become truly a secular school with students of all faiths admitted without any religious bias. The student population consists of all communities and all faiths in the country and is an embodiment communal and religious harmony.

Maliyadeva College has been able to produce some of the best intellectuals in numerous fields, and has won notable achievements in both academic and extracurricular activities throughout its history. Maliyadeva College has always being able to secure top island ranks in education and has produced some of the best talent the nation has seen.

Maliyadeva College has been the educational hub of North Western Province throughout the last century. It has been a trend setter in the field of education and sport. Living up to its motto “Vidya Bhushanam Purusha Bhushanam”, meaning “Science is the jewel of man”, it provides a platform for every student to reach his maximum potential.

Today the school accommodates over 7000 students. The term "Devans" is used to refer to the former/present pupils of Maliyadeva College.