When a Boy who entered RC during the reign of late LDHP (and now a young Dad) made a candid revelation to RRCB (on the current status of once a great institution), an eminent Alumnus, commonly referred to as a “Living Legend” circulated the following explanation. As the RRCB is very tolerant and warmly welcome diverse opinions, we are publishing his email fully leaving our readership to their own judgment.
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Original Post
https://realroyalcollege.blogspot.com/2026/01/during-principal-ldh-peiriss-tenure-boy.html
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Reply
FORWARDING AS RECEIVED A WELL ARTICULATED RESPONSE TO THE ABOVE
"Thank you for taking the time to write and for expressing your views as an alumnus and as a parent of Royal College. I acknowledge the deep emotional connection that many old boys naturally feel towards their alma mater and respect your right to raise concerns in what you believe to be the best interests of the College.
At the same time, it is necessary to respond to several assertions in your letter which, require clarification and correction.
1. Secular Character of Royal College
Royal College continues to maintain its secular identity in policy and practice.
While Buddhist religious observances may appear more visible—reflecting the demographic composition of the majority of students—no religion is imposed, nor are students of other faiths marginalised or excluded.
Religious observances of all major faiths represented in the student body continue to be facilitated in accordance with long-standing traditions and Ministry of Education guidelines. Visibility should not be mistaken for institutional bias.
2. Grade One Admissions
Royal College is a government school and strictly adheres to the Grade One admissions circular issued annually by the Ministry of Education. The College does not function as a private institution, nor does it have discretionary powers to alter selection criteria.
Any allegation of admissions being conducted outside the prescribed framework must be addressed through the appropriate legal and administrative channels. Broad generalisations risk unfairly discrediting an institution bound by government policy and oversight.
3. Changing Educational Landscape
It must also be recognised that the educational landscape of Colombo—and Sri Lanka at large—has changed significantly over the past few decades. With improved infrastructure, trained graduate teachers, and enhanced facilities now available in many suburban schools, parents increasingly prefer institutions closer to their residences.
This shift is not unique to Royal College and should not be interpreted as institutional decline.
4. Rugby and Legal Matters
With regard to the rugby-related issues you mention, these matters were taken up through proper legal channels and are now almost settled. It is therefore neither appropriate nor constructive to continue revisiting them in public discourse.
5. English Medium Admissions
There is no evidence to support claims of money being involved in the selection of students for English medium classes. Selection procedures are conducted according to guidelines. Allegations of bribe-based admissions remain unproven assertions unless established through due legal process.
6. Role of Individuals and Selective Attribution
While every citizen is free to express views and raise concerns, it is neither accurate nor healthy to portray any one individual as the sole custodian or saviour of Royal College.
If advocacy and vigilance are necessary—as you suggest—then they are responsibilities that all parents and alumni may engage in constructively. It cannot reasonably be argued that such engagement is the exclusive domain of one person.
7. Teacher Transfers and Government Policy
Teacher transfers, including those of experienced staff, occur across all government schools under Ministry policy. It would be incorrect to attribute such transfers to the actions of any individual or group outside the official administrative framework.
Furthermore, it is pertinent to note that concerns now being raised were not voiced during the many years when teachers served the College with dedication. Selective timing naturally raises questions regarding motivation.
8. Role of the Royal College Union (RCU)
The RCU has consistently intervened where necessary and continues to engage with the College administration on matters affecting students and the institution. Constructive engagement, rather than confrontation or public vilification, remains the most effective path forward.
9. Change and Continuity
Times have undeniably changed. With change come challenges, adjustments, and occasional shortcomings. This is true of all long-standing institutions. However, to characterize Royal College as decayed, corrupt, or beyond redemption does a grave disservice to the thousands of teachers, administrators, students, and parents who continue to uphold its values with integrity.
We share your desire to see Royal College flourish and remain a Centre of excellence. That objective is best achieved through balanced dialogue, verified facts, institutional respect, and collective responsibility—rather than through narratives that risk undermining confidence in the very institution we all cherish."
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