The inauguration of the new English-medium educational institution, Claret College, Barawakumbuka, located in the Southern Province, and within the Diocese of Galle, was joyfully held on the 6th of February 2026. The ceremony took place in the gracious presence of His Lordship Most Rev. Dr. Raymond Kingsley Wickramasinghe, Bishop of Galle, together with the Claretian Major Superior (Sri Lanka – South Sudan), Rev. Fr. Joseph Jeyaseelan CMF, and the Consultors Frs. Danushka Silva CMF, Thevarajan Peiris CMF, and Vincent de Paul Croos CMF. Several diocesan priests, Claretians, religious, and invited guests also graced this memorable occasion.
This historic event marks a significant milestone for the Claretians in Sri Lanka, standing as a concrete expression of the Congregation’s expanding mission and enduring commitment to education and outreach to the peripheries, in keeping with the charism of St. Anthony Mary Claret.
For the year 2026, the College has admitted 30 students to Grade One. In addition, the English-medium preschool – Claret International Preschool – has already commenced operations for the year, with an encouraging enrollment of 106 children, reflecting a positive response.
Rev. Fr. Royestan Jerajh CMF officially assumed office as the Rector of the College, while Rev. Fr. Iresh Nimarshana CMF was appointed Vice Rector. Rev. Fr. S. Jesuthasan CMF, while continuing his service as the Local Superior of the Claretian Community in the Diocese of Galle, has also assumed responsibility as the Treasurer of the College.
May the spirit of St. Anthony Mary Claret inspire the management and staff to be tireless witnesses in the field of education, forming future generations with courage, competence, and compassion.
