Ever wonder what secrets are held within those red and white brick walls? That’s the Maradana Technical College. Today we explore its rich history.
The Maradana Technical College stands as a landmark in Colombo. It is located at No. 557 Olcott Mawatha. This college is considered the oldest technical college in Sri Lanka. Its story began long before its current iconic building.
Let’s step back to 1893. The institute began as the Government Technical College. Imagine a humble start in a renovated coffee store. This was near the Ceylon Government Railway Terminal building at Maradana. The college was small. It had a workshop, a laboratory, a lecture room and one classroom. Just 25 students enrolled at first.
But its impact was significant. The Maradana Technical College became a pioneer in science education. It offered chemistry, physics and biology classes. These classes were for school teachers and medical students. This was even before Ceylon University College existed in 1921.
In 1906 the college’s name changed to Ceylon Technical College. By 1908 commerce classes began. Over time it became a center for management and business studies. When Ceylon University College opened in 1921, the technical college’s science section moved there. It formed the Department of Science at the new university college.
A reorganization occurred in 1933. The college started preparing students for external engineering degrees from the University of London. These classes continued until the University of Ceylon’s Faculty of Engineering began in 1950.
More changes came in later years. The arts and crafts section became the Government College of Fine Arts in 1953. In 1960 technician courses moved to Katubedda. This new establishment was called the Institute of Practical Technology. That institute later became the University of Moratuwa in 1972.
The college building itself is a sight to behold. Constructed in 1903, it showcases Neo-Renaissance architecture. The red and white brick decorations are distinctive. A gable roof shades the steps leading into the building.
The Maradana Technical College has a proud legacy. It has shaped technical education in Sri Lanka for well over a century. From its small beginnings to its current status, it remains an important institution. Its alumni have contributed significantly to various fields. The college continues to evolve. It adapts to the changing needs of the country.