Col. W. D. Samarasena 1958 to 1960 Batch

This section celebrates the origins of the TTI Past Students Association and the collective spirit that shaped it. These memories honor the dedication and vision of the early Hardians who built the foundation for what is known today as the Hardy Alumni Association.

Formation of the TTI Past Students Association

The idea of forming an alumni association first emerged during the very first Social Gathering of the Technical Training Institute in 1960. This event celebrated the graduation of the first batch of Hardy students. The gathering took place in the Rock Garden where Mr. Dan Pereira, the first Superintendent of the Institute, shared a proposal that he called food for thought. His suggestion was to create an association for past students of the Institute.

This idea was further supported by Mr. Kolitha Herath, an exceptional student from the first batch. With the interest shown by the graduates, Mr. Pereira encouraged them to contact all past students and arrange a formal meeting to discuss the proposal. This meeting became a Red Letter Day in the history of the Institute. Thirty one graduates gathered inside the main building of the Institute.

At this meeting, it was unanimously agreed to form the TTI Past Students Association.

Patrons

• Prof. Evan A. Hardy
• Mr. Dan Pereira
• Mrs. Lois Hardy

First Office Bearers

• President: Mr. Kolitha Herath
• Vice Presidents: T. H. Ananda, Palihakkra
• Secretary: H. E. D. Perera
• Assistant Secretary: C. N. de Silva
• Sports Secretary: Lionel Fernando
• Treasurer: G. C. Premachandra
• Assistant Treasurer: Asela Wickremasinghe

General Committee Members

• George Vaithianathan
• A. V. Gunabalaingham
• Ranjan Jayawardena
• Ranjith Colombage
• R. T. Vithana
• Y. P. R. David
• K. P. Arumugavadivel

Growth and Evolution of the Association

Initially, the Association was active mainly in Ampara, where most members worked. When the Gal Oya Development Board expanded operations to Uda Walawe, the Association also extended its activities to that region. With time, many Hardians joined various departments and corporations in Colombo, making it a more suitable center for organized activities.

During this period, the Association did not have a permanent headquarters. Meetings were held in the homes of members where they enjoyed warm friendship and a strong sense of unity.

Becoming a Registered and Recognized Organization

In 1984, under the leadership of Mr. W. D. Samarasena, the Association achieved a major milestone. It became officially registered in Sri Lanka and received charitable status from the government. This recognition allowed the Association to acquire land in Ratmalana for the Hardy Centre, which was planned as the main hub of its activities.

With growth in membership and responsibilities, the constitution was expanded and the name was changed to the Old Hardians Association.

Transition to the Hardy Alumni Association

With the opening of the Hardy Centre, the scope of the Association increased. Modern needs and the evolution of alumni activities required further amendments to the constitution. In 1989, under the leadership of Mr. Andrews Thevathasan, the Association adopted a new constitution and officially became known as the Hardy Alumni Association.

A Legacy That Endures

The Hardy Alumni Association stands today as a strong and united body. It continues to grow under dedicated leadership while staying true to the ideals of its founders. The values established by the pioneers guide the Association as it embraces modern developments and prepares for the future.

The fifty eighth death anniversary of Professor Hardy fell on 4 December 2021. This article honors him and the vision he shared for the Institute and its students.