Devi Balika- Growing from Strength to Strength
View(s):“2012 A/L results have been released. And guess what?” My husband aroused my curiosity.
“May be Devi Balika’s at the top”, I was quick indeed.
Though it was three years and a little more since I left Devi to domicile in Australia, my partiality is still strong; I always consider myself fortunate to be a teacher in the A/L languages section. Looking back at the time I taught at Devi, which is filled with mixed nostalgic memories, there is contetment.
In my last visit to Sri Lanka, personal commitments did not allow me the opportunity to visit her to see her present glory. But some of my former students who visited me had informed me of the latest.
“Miss, we’re getting ready for the 60th birthday.”
“Really, she’s 60 years.”
To me who knew Devi Balika since my childhood, when my two elder sisters Sandya and Arunodini, won scholarships somewhere in the ‘70s, Devi would forever be a damsel and never a sixty year old veteran. There is a surprising youthful aspect about her due to an innate vigour and dynamism that keeps her evolving in the best direction. This aspect has been enhanced by the simplicity and the intelligence of the recipients of knowledge. It’s indeed an unassuming loveliness.
Nestled in between the most unexpected landmarks of birth and death-the Castle Hospital and the General Cemetery, Devi Balika has its unique atmosphere never to be found anywhere. Driving down the Sri Jayawardanepura Mawata an onlooker is beset with the beaming smiles of proud parents and happy expectant mothers plump with the sustaining life within. In the afternoon, once the school is over, the sadness of life is in the air with bugles or drums or the mournful wailing of the grief-stricken. Life lessons are naturally taught to Devians who celebrate life and death in equal measures.
As teachers, our roles are multi-dimensional. As the tradition requires, selection applies to all of us. The Department of Education sends students on the basis of merit, and the teachers too are selected with caution. When a teacher applies or is recommended, there is a process of assessing their ability to teach at Devi Balika. First, there is an interview with the Principal or the Vice Principals or the relevant sectional head. If the impression is favourable there would be a teaching session under supervision next.
Once selected, there is a code of conduct to adhere. Our very attire is under scrutiny. The manner we handle classes is under surveillance. Our arrival and departure too is monitored. If our conduct is not according to Devi tradition, there would be comments or recommendations. But once established we become a part of that huge Devi community.
Such attention to detail had been there from the very inception of the school under the likes of Dr Wimala De Silva, the founder Principal of Devi Balika, a lady of high calibre and wisdom.
Teachers are dedicated and highly committed. According to our capability we are entrusted with classes and also co-curricular activities. Devi Balika is not only making intellectuals, but also produces all- rounders. Therefore a range of co-curricular activities is on the school calendar showcasing the exquisite talents of our very capable girls. With little guidance and direction they in fact would go a long way. Teaching is undoubtedly challenging and demanding. The girls are knowledge seekers as they are brought up to compete. Their thirst for knowledge is unparalleled. Once taught, there is the satisfaction of being understood 99% if not hundred per cent.
Term tests are the most trying of all. We make our papers, attending to every level of their completion with utmost care. We do not compromise the standards, knowing very well our girls could accomplish their task to perfection. Once the papers are corrected, every detail is observed by the eager students and the anxious but strict teachers. Looking back I feel content at such rigorous but equally meticulous procedures being carried out there. That definitely enhanced our abilities as educators.
Prize giving is the time of celebration. The academic results that invariably include public examinations and their high performance are to be rewarded. When assigned with the duty of writing certificates and character certificates made me wonder at the ability of our girls to do the best. Devians undoubtedly go par excellence.
The results make us fly on wings. The hard work and devotion is compensated when the white sheets are religiously brought in by the proud principal in the red and silver van. There’s much exhilaration in the air. The time to rejoice as there is at least a couple of bests if not island bests. The phones ringing with the much awaited news, laughter and tears are an inherent part of it. We simply wipe our tears of joy taking a mental note, pondering happily on the extra times of special classes and revision regimes started at early hours of the day. There’s always a compensatory factor.
Sport-meets bring the competing spirits to revel. Blue, green, orange and red flags air-borne, martial the true desire to try their physical best. It negates the very fact that Devians are only academically oriented. They bring the intellect and the physical strength into perfect harmony.
This year our school celebrates 60 years of unparalleled excellence. This year we are extra proud our girls became island best in diverse streams. This year we need the perfect resolve that years ahead for Devi would undoubtedly be filled with glory. Whatever challenges may come, Devi tradition should continue; we the members of that large extended family of Mother Devi need to pledge that her future would only be harmonious.
Savithri Jayasinge Cooray
Centre for English Language and
Training-Thomastown, Victoria
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