Trinity College Kandy has announced one of the largest known philanthropic contributions made to an educational institution in Sri Lanka, receiving a remarkable donation of LKR 3 billion from distinguished businessman, philanthropist, and Trinity old boy Nahil Wijesuriya.
The donation marks a historic moment for the prestigious institution and demonstrates an extraordinary commitment toward strengthening education and nurturing future generations of students.
In an official statement, Trinity College Principal Rev. Fr. Araliya Jayasundara described the contribution as an “extraordinary gift” and “a powerful affirmation” of confidence in the College and its mission of shaping future generations of Trinitians.
To ensure responsible and sustainable use of the contribution, Trinity College stated that a dedicated fund will be established for prudent management and long-term deployment of the donation. The initiative aims to enhance educational quality, promote holistic student development, and further strengthen Trinity’s position as one of the leading educational institutions in the region.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of the Trinity community, the Principal thanked Wijesuriya for his unwavering dedication to educational excellence and social responsibility.
Who is Nahil Wijesuriya?
Nahil Wijesuriya is widely recognized as one of Sri Lanka’s pioneering entrepreneurs and influential business figures. Throughout his career, he has been involved in multiple industries including shipping, information technology, media, hospitality, property development, and marine services.
He founded East West Enterprises Ltd and played a significant role in Sri Lanka’s business landscape through numerous ventures and innovations. Among his notable achievements was the establishment of ETV, Sri Lanka’s first 24-hour television network operating on two channels, ETV1 and ETV2, which was later sold to Swarnavahini.
Wijesuriya was also instrumental in the information technology sector through East West Information Systems Ltd, one of the earliest IBM dealerships in Sri Lanka, which later evolved into EWIS.
His business portfolio extended beyond technology and media into shipping operations, offshore bunkering, salvage and marine services, and large-scale hospitality projects. He was associated with prominent properties including the Ceylon Continental Hotel, now known as Kingsbury Hotel, and was involved in the development of the Weligama Bay Marriott Resort and Spa before its eventual sale.
A Legacy of Giving
The LKR 3 billion contribution to Trinity College is not the first major act of philanthropy by Wijesuriya.
He has previously made several substantial donations toward education and healthcare initiatives across Sri Lanka, including:
- LKR 1 billion to the Little Hearts Project at Lady Ridgeway Hospital (Read More).
- LKR 600 million to S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia for a modern Information Technology building (Read More).
- LKR 270 million toward constructing Bishop’s College’s new O-Level and A-Level building
These contributions highlight a consistent pattern of supporting causes that create long-term social impact, particularly in education and healthcare.
More Than a Donation
Beyond its financial value, the LKR 3 billion contribution represents an investment in future generations. Such acts of generosity can help institutions strengthen educational opportunities, expand resources, and create lasting benefits for students.
For Trinity College, this historic gift may become a defining chapter in its long history and a powerful example of how alumni can give back to institutions that shaped their journeys.
As Sri Lanka continues to navigate educational and economic challenges, philanthropy of this scale stands as a reminder of the transformative power of giving.