OLD ANANDIAN ENGINEERS' GUILD

Joining the Old Anandian Engineers’ Guild marked the beginning of an inspiring chapter in my life. My first encounter with the Guild at the Inaugural Congregation Event was a profound eye-opener, introducing me to a network of fellow Anandians passionate about engineering.

My active involvement in the student chapter's activities fueled my growth, both professionally and personally. The industry visits were a highlight, offering me firsthand insights from industry leaders and shaping my entrepreneurial path. The guidance and mentorship I received from these interactions have been invaluable.

Serving as the Joint Secretary in 2020/21, I honed my leadership skills and benefited from the Guild's focus on soft skills and professional conduct. Giving back to our school through the 'Intro to Robotics' course was especially rewarding, allowing me to share my passion for robotics with young minds eager to learn. Moreover, speaking at the 'Pathway to Engineering' programs allowed me to inspire and encourage budding engineers. These experiences not only contributed to my personal growth but also reinforced my commitment to fostering a supportive and dynamic engineering community.

I am grateful for the mentorship, opportunities, and experiences provided by the Old Anandian Engineers’ Guild. It's been a privilege to be part of an organization that continually strives for excellence and community upliftment.

Upon my return from higher studies, I frequented Ananda College for various purposes, including academic and infrastructure-related concerns. During these interactions, it became apparent that there were significant issues surrounding the college's infrastructure. On a positive note, I observed the seamless operation of the Medical Guild in fulfilling its responsibilities.

An intriguing opportunity presented itself one day when, while supervising a university exam, I noticed a substantial number of students proudly donning Ananda College T-shirts. Post-exam, I engaged with them and proposed the idea of establishing an Engineers’ Guild. Their enthusiastic response led to the swift drafting of a constitution. Through multiple discussions and consultations, we finalized the draft and convened meetings with senior engineers at the Siyawasa Building. Their valuable input contributed to refining the constitution, ultimately giving rise to the "Old Anandian Engineers’ Guild" (OAEG). This process unfolded between late 2016 and early 2017.

Subsequently, I embarked on a sabbatical, spending over a year in the USA and Australia. During my absence, the team diligently concluded the constitution, officially establishing the OAEG with my overseas blessings. Special recognition goes to Eng. Kithsiri Gunasekara, the inaugural president, who skillfully guided the OAEG to its current stature. Eng. Shiran Perera further elevated the OAEG, solidifying its indispensability within the college.

The Students’ Chapter of the OAEG has emerged as a driving force, effectively managing and contributing to OAEG projects both within the college and the broader community.

It is my honor to share a few words about the Old Anandian Engineers' Guild (OAEG) as its inaugural President. The official formation of OAEG in 2017 was the culmination of numerous discussions and a widely recognized need among Ananda engineers for such a guild. The actual establishment, however, was sparked by the initiative of Prof. Udeni Nawagamuwa and his students at the University of Moratuwa. I vividly recall the dedication of Prof Nawagamuwa, Dr. Malaka, Randika, Chamith, and Tharuka in turning that collective dream into reality. The Guild's first Annual General Meeting and launch event, held with great flair at Kingsbury Hotel, was a testament to the tireless efforts of everyone involved. I apologize for any omissions in acknowledging these contributions.

I had the privilege of being the first appointed, rather than elected, President of the Guild. Over the past six years, OAEG has evolved significantly, becoming a key affiliated group of the Ananda Old Boys Association. The increasing volume of engineering consultancy requests from our alma mater speaks volumes about the Guild's significance.

But our commitment extended beyond just consulting; we also focused on mentoring undergraduate engineers from Ananda, aiming to elevate them to prominent industry positions. It's gratifying to see this trend continuing, starting with our initial discussion on "What it Takes to Become a CEO."

Furthermore, OAEG initiated a scholarship program and career guidance for Ananda students. But probably, the most impactful program, however, was "Sahurdha Saviya," led by OAEG undergraduates, to support Advanced Level students. The remarkable improvement in physical science results during its implementation year, while not solely attributable, probably was partly influenced by this initiative.

Despite the obstacles brought on by COVID-19, notably the hindrance of face-to-face gatherings, I must commend the remarkable resilience and unwavering dedication of the successive presidents and office bearers. Their efforts have been instrumental in maintaining the vitality and activity of the Guild. Under the adept leadership of Eng. Shiran Perera followed by Prof Udeni Nawagamuwa, their contributions have been nothing short of exemplary, surpassing what I managed to achieve during my tenure.

As the founding President, I extend my best wishes to OAEG, its current President Prof. Udeni Nawagamuwa, the office bearers, and future executive committee members. Finally, I must express my gratitude to the OAEG student body for their exceptional commitment and contributions to the Guild's success.

It's wonderful to hear about the Old Anandians Engineers' Guild (OAEG) and the positive impact it has on our school. The commitment of its members to academic development, soft skill enhancement, career guidance, recognition of student excellence, and infrastructure development is truly commendable. The collective efforts of eminent personalities, both locally and internationally, reflect the dedication and passion for the betterment of the alma mater.

I join you in extending my best wishes to the Old Anandians Engineers' Guild for their future endeavors. May your continued contributions elevate Ananda College to new heights, fostering an environment of excellence and growth. Here's to the OAEG making a lasting impact on the school and shaping the future of its students. I am proud to be a member of this esteemed community.

As a member of the Old Anandians Engineers' Guild (OAEG), I extend my heartfelt congratulations on the occasion of its Annual General Meeting. The continuous and impactful contributions of the OAEG are poised to elevate Ananda College to new heights, fostering an environment of excellence and growth. May the guild persist in its pivotal role of shaping students' future, leaving an indelible mark on our cherished alma mater.

The commendable initiatives led by OAEG, aimed at providing career guidance and encouraging students to pursue engineering, are truly praiseworthy. The dedication of OAEG members to enhancing academic and professional development reflects their commitment to nurturing top-notch professionals of international repute among the young Anandians. I am confident that these efforts will pave the way for aspiring students to prosper in their engineering careers.

The collaborative endeavours of distinguished individuals within OAEG, characterised by their exceptional calibre, exemplify a shared commitment and fervour for the progress of Ananda College. As an old Indian and an engineer, I take immense pride in being a part of this community.

I wish OAEG continued success in all its future endeavours, and I am confident that the collective efforts of the guild will persist in making a positive and enduring impact on our beloved alma mater. Here's to the continued success of the OAEG and the bright future it actively shapes for Ananda College and its students.

Upon my return from higher studies, I frequented Ananda College for various purposes, including academic and infrastructure-related concerns. During these interactions, it became apparent that there were significant issues surrounding the college's infrastructure. On a positive note, I observed the seamless operation of the Medical Guild in fulfilling its responsibilities.

An intriguing opportunity presented itself one day when, while supervising a university exam, I noticed a substantial number of students proudly donning Ananda College T-shirts. Post-exam, I engaged with them and proposed the idea of establishing an Engineers’ Guild. Their enthusiastic response led to the swift drafting of a constitution. Through multiple discussions and consultations, we finalized the draft and convened meetings with senior engineers at the Siyawasa Building. Their valuable input contributed to refining the constitution, ultimately giving rise to the "Old Anandian Engineers’ Guild" (OAEG). This process unfolded between late 2016 and early 2017.

Subsequently, I embarked on a sabbatical, spending over a year in the USA and Australia. During my absence, the team diligently concluded the constitution, officially establishing the OAEG with my overseas blessings. Special recognition goes to Eng. Kithsiri Gunasekara, the inaugural president, who skillfully guided the OAEG to its current stature. Eng. Shiran Perera further elevated the OAEG, solidifying its indispensability within the college.

The Students’ Chapter of the OAEG has emerged as a driving force, effectively managing and contributing to OAEG projects both within the college and the broader community.