Maliyadewa Collage - Digital Library Opening

Demonstrating its continued commitment to advancing education through technology, EWIS officially inaugurated a Digital Library at Maliyadeva Model School, Kurunegala, on 3rd July 2026. The initiative included the donation of computers, smart boards, and a complete digital library solution, making it the first fully digital library in the Kurunegala District.

The opening ceremony was attended by EWIS Chairman Mr. Sanjeewa Wickramanayake, together with members of the EWIS team, school administrators, teachers, parents, students, and distinguished guests. Among the special invitees were Mrs. S.A.P.S. Jayamaha, Zonal Director of Education, Kurunegala, Major Y. K. Kumarathanna, Principal of Maliyadeva Model School, principals of neighbouring schools, and representatives of the Old Pupils' Association and the School Development Society.

The ceremony commenced with religious observances and the traditional lighting of the oil lamp, followed by the official welcome address and an introduction to the objectives of the Digital Library project. The library was formally declared open through the ribbon cutting ceremony and the unveiling of the commemorative plaque, after which the guests toured the newly established facility.

The Digital Library has been established to provide students and teachers with fast, reliable, and up-to-date access to educational resources. As education continues to evolve, students increasingly depend on digital platforms for learning, research, and self-study rather than relying solely on printed books. This initiative creates an environment where knowledge is more accessible and learning becomes more engaging and interactive.

The facility provides access to digital books, educational videos, presentations, research publications, scientific journals, simulations, and other multimedia learning resources. These tools encourage independent learning, strengthen research skills, improve critical thinking, and help students develop the digital competencies required for higher education and future careers.

The Digital Library also serves as a valuable resource for teachers by providing access to the latest educational content, teaching methodologies, research materials, and digital learning resources. This enables educators to continuously enhance their subject knowledge while integrating modern technology into classroom teaching.

Currently, the Digital Library benefits approximately 300 Advanced Level students and 25 teachers. The school plans to expand the facility in the future, extending its services to all Advanced Level students and teachers while introducing additional digital resources and AI-powered learning tools.

Addressing the gathering, EWIS Chairman Mr. Sanjeewa Wickramanayake highlighted the importance of embracing emerging technologies in education. He spoke about prompt engineering as an essential competency in the era of artificial intelligence and encouraged students to use technology responsibly to enhance their learning. He also advised students to foster cooperation, discipline, and mutual respect, reminding them that these values are equally important in achieving both academic success and personal growth.

During the ceremony, appreciation was extended to EWIS and all those who contributed to making the project a reality. The event concluded with a vote of thanks, recognising the dedication and collaboration of the sponsors, school administration, teachers, students, and everyone involved in establishing this important educational initiative.

By transforming the school's Science Section Library into a modern Digital Library, EWIS has helped create a technology-enabled learning environment that supports both teaching and learning. More importantly, this initiative reflects EWIS' ongoing commitment to empowering future generations through innovation, expanding access to quality education, and creating meaningful opportunities for students to thrive in an increasingly digital world.