Article On sunday Observer
- Details
- Published on Sunday, 19 February 2012 14:03
Mr K Kandasamy: Former Deputy Principle Jaffna Central College (1944-1991)
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the death of Mr K. Kandasamy, a student, outstanding teacher and Deputy Principal of Jaffna Central College (JCC). He commenced his studies at JCC in 1944 and then specialised in Commerce and Accounts. He passionately taught these subjects to the JCC students and earned their respect and admiration. JCC was always a favourite environment for Kandasamy Master, where he spent over 47 years as a student and teacher. He studied under and worked with prominent scholars like Rev. Smith, Dr D T Niles and Kalai Pulavar Navaratnam and won the encomium of several educationists. His dedication and untiring contributions to JCC earned him a position as a sectional head. The success of this talented teacher continued when he was appointed Additional Deputy Principal in 1987, became a Deputy Principal in 1990 and served in this prestigious position until his retirement in 1991. Mr Kandasamy served as Deputy Principal under the then Principal of JCC Mr N K Shanmuganathapillai who was also a Centralite. It was a coincidence for the second time in our 195 years of history that from 1990 to 1991, we had a Principal and a Deputy Principal who were both Centralites. Prior to this Mr Kandasamy’s father in-law Mr A E Tamber served as Deputy Principal under Principal Dr D T Niles from 1958 to 1962 and both were Centralites.
All the Centralites remember and recognise Kandasamy Master’s contributions and untiring support to JCC during the conflict in the late eighties. In order to offer uninterrupted education to JCC students this great teacher took enormous risks to support and protect our college.
At the height of the conflict our beloved Master put his school before his life, discouraged relocating the school to another place and created an environment conducive for students to continue their normal education. In this regard Kandasamy Master’s relentless efforts and immense help in rallying and convincing the teachers, old boys and pupils are commendable.
Kandasamy Memorial Park at JCC
He passed away in 1992, but his legacy is remembered by all Centralites and staff. The memorial park at Jaffna Central is a fitting tribute to his legacy at Jaffna Central College.
Compiled by Prof R K Guganesharajah (Student of Kandasamy Master)
