Nalanda College  Colombo paid its highest tribute to the newly appointed 17th Commander of the Air Force and its alumni, Air Marshal Sumangala Dias, at college premises today (31 July 2019) at a special assembly, in keeping with Nalanda College tradition of recognizing those who have achieved the highest degree of recognition and achievement in society.

The ceremony showcased an impressive pageantry of current Nalanda College students and staff members, with the college Cadet Platoon and the Cadet Band heralding the parade, with a distinguished gathering of past Nalandians participating in full strength.

Speaking at the ceremony, the present principle of Nalanda College, Mr. Thilak Waththuhewa stated that Nalanda College has a history of producing noble sons who serve the country in the highest ranks of office and that Air Marshal Sumangala Dias, who had excelled in sports, studies and extracurricular activities whilst at school and who has reached the highest position in the Air Force, is a source of pride and inspiration to his alma mater.

Air Marshal Dias, acknowledged with pride and modesty, that his achievements were a direct result of the solid foundation laid at his beloved Nalanda College.  He spoke to the present Nalandians and reminded them that the solid foundation that he received as a student of Nalanda College, paved the path for him to be appointed as the third consecutive Commander of the Air Force from Nalanda College. The Commander also fondly remembered all the teachers who served during his time at Nalanda.