In the lead-up to St. Xavier’s College, Nuwara Eliya’s 165th anniversary, the school marked a historic moment by launching its first-ever Artificial Intelligence Society on September 9, 2024. This pioneering initiative, the first of its kind in Sri Lanka, was developed in collaboration with the International Business Cooperation Evaluation of Sri Lanka and backed by the Old Boys’ Association (OBA). The establishment of the society follows a recent Cabinet decision encouraging the creation of AI clubs in schools across the country.

The Principal of St. Xavier’s College emphasized that this effort would equip students with advanced knowledge, empowering them to navigate the future with cutting-edge skills. The educational session was led by Gamini Bandara Manikdiwela, a key figure in AI, and was attended by over 150 senior students. Manikdiwela underscored the Ministry of Education’s plan to appoint 7,500 AI-dedicated teachers, part of a broader vision to propel Sri Lanka into a new technological era.

At the event, Lal Indra Kumara, a former academic staff member and Registrar at Royal College and Assistant Secretary General of the Sri Lanka Schools’ Basketball Association, encouraged the college to revive its once-thriving basketball program, which had flourished under the La Sallian administration. The OBA Secretary also expressed hope that future governments would continue to support such forward-thinking initiatives for the college’s sustained growth.

Additionally, the event recognized the Under-19 Football Team, which finished as runners-up in the Provincial Level tournament, and the Under-20, 5000m running event third-place finisher. Both teams were awarded certificates and cash prizes by the OBA.