A renovated school building at Dharmodaya Vidyalaya, a long-established school in the Western Province education zone, was officially handed over to students during the school’s Sinhala and Hindu New Year celebration held recently.

The renovation and modernisation project was funded through a private donation by the family of Anjalica Taylor, a Sri Lankan-origin resident of Surrey.

The event was held under the patronage of Principal Darshani Liyanage, with members of the teaching staff, students, and the Taylor family in attendance.

Taylor, who is pursuing higher studies at University of Sussex, and accompanying family members were given an opportunity to experience Sri Lankan cultural traditions during the celebration.

The family also expressed hopes of extending future support towards the school’s development and educational activities.

Taylor, who resides in Purley, Surrey, has taken a gap year from her studies at the University of Sussex. She also completed a period of voluntary service at Dharmodaya College, Galkissa, from 30 March to 10 April 2026.

Beyond her professional contribution, her visit carried profound historical significance for the school. Her great-great-grandfather, Colonne Appuhamy, had also served as a volunteer teacher at the school’s night school.

School authorities said they were delighted to welcome her, describing the family connection as a meaningful link between the institution’s past and present.