CELEBRATING THREE DECADE EXCELLENCE OF THE LYCEUM INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

From humble beginnings on Raymond Road, Nugegoda to becoming the largest network of schools on the island, Lyceum has spread its branches of wisdom across the nation creating thousands of young leaders. Lyceum celebrated 30 years of excellence in education on the 14th of June in a grand event attended by the Founders Drs Mohan Lal Grero and Mrs Kumari Grero with the young Director Mr Nikitha Grero, along with other dignitaries.

Lyceum International School, starting with a small collective of dedicated individuals, has become a renowned institution in Sri Lanka, providing accessible, high-quality English Medium education. Over 30 years and with multiple branches, it has nurtured numerous young leaders. Through resilience and visionary excellence, the Lyceum family exemplifies the power of determination to create positive change.

On the 30th anniversary, Lyceum International School awarded the prestigious title of “Emeritus Teacher” to teachers who have served the school for 10+ years, and shown true loyalty, commitment and skill in their craft.

The Launch of “The Emeritus Teacher” title is a significant leap in academic recognition spearheaded by Mr. Nikitha Grero, Managing Director, Lyceum International School. The title of “Emeritus Teacher” is a prestigious honour bestowed upon exceptional teachers and educators who have devoted themselves with faithful service to the development of young minds, the advancement of the school, and the betterment of society. These teachers have gone above and beyond their duty, guiding students during their tenure at Lyceum and shaping their lives, and preparing them to become responsible global citizens.

The following former members of the academic staff of Lyceum received the “Emeritus Teacher” awards: Mr. Sarath Gunatilake, Mrs. Esther Felicia Perera, Mrs. Ganeshwary Yogeswaran, Mr.Nihal Jayasinghe, Mrs. Meegaha Gedara Sardhawathie, Mr. Titus Silva, Mrs. Hishana Martinesz, Mr Sam Chandrasena, Mr. Samarabandu Wickramasinghe, Mrs. Lilani Fernando, Ms. Christina Gunasekera, Mrs. Malini Weerasinghe, Mr. J. Krishnakumar, Mrs. Malathi Fernando, Mrs. Sushila Witharana , Mr. Yoheswaran, Ms Yvete Cooke, Late Mr. Bandula Ediriweera Galappaththi (posthumous award) and Late Mr. Tilan Perera (posthumous award).

All these signified the “real world approach” of transforming lives to transforming communities that is grounded in the value Lyceum school place in these dedicated and devoted individuals who serve not only in enabling young minds to be academically qualified but beyond that, to be strong global citizens who respect and devote his/her self to the preservation of core Sri Lankan values.

The celebrations began with the opening of ‘The Wall of Gratitude’ by Dr Mohan Lal Grero, Dr Mrs Kumari Grero, and Mr Nikitha Grero. The Founder, Coordinating Principal, and young Director proceeded to the Aeolian hall along with the Emeritus Teacher awardees. The celebrations continued with the hoisting of the flags while the school choir sang the National and School Anthems, preceded by the lighting of the oil lamp ceremony.

Afterwards, the guests were welcomed with a captivating dance performed by the School’s Kandyan dancing troupe, after which the Head Boy proceeded with his welcome speech to all present. The ‘A Walk Through Humble Beginnings’ video with messages from the Founder, Coordinating principal and Director was played. They reflect back on the long yet fulfilling journey of Lyceum International School and the Lyceum family. Dr. Mohan Lal Grero addressed the students, looking back on the past 30 years, the esteemed Founder, had this to say : “ The vision of Lyceum International School has remained unwavering since its inception. On 14th June 1993, with a dedicated team of 4 teachers, a Principal and a Registrar, Lyceum International School, Nugegoda, became the very first school of our Lyceum network, with the primary focus of providing wide-ranging, international educational experiences.

In our three-decade-long journey in education, we have sought to enrich our students with not only high-quality education on an international level, but to help them develop desirable attributes as compassionate human beings, whilst developing their innate talents. Over the years, Lyceum has established itself as a premier institution, offering students a rich and well-rounded education. We are truly proud of our students, past

and present, who continue to work hard to achieve their goals, and of those who have gone to not only thrive, but make a real difference. Today, we mark yet another milestone in our journey of shaping the future generations of our country, celebrating 30 years of academic excellence and achievements. I also extend my sincere gratitude to the staff and school management for their diligence and commitment, towards the sustained progress of Lyceum International School, Nugegoda and its students ”.

The Founder Dr Mohan Lal Grero, Dr (Mrs) Kumari Grero, and Mr Nikitha Grero were invited onto the stage for the cake-cutting ceremony along with the Head Prefects, the cake was cut to much applause while the choir sang ‘Happy Birthday’.

This anniversary was a special one for the School as it marks a milestone in proving survival, strength, and an unwavering spirit despite the situation.

The Lyceum name is synonymous with good values and priorities instilling a value system of acceptance, kindness, honesty, and strength in their students. If anything, the 30th anniversary reflects the success of Lyceum International School and its future of innovative teaching and learning, and life-long education.