T/T/Orr’s Hill Vivekananda College in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, has emerged as a beacon of progress in school-level technology education. With the introduction of the Technology stream at the GCE Advanced Level (A/L), the school has taken bold and forward-thinking steps to equip students with practical skills and technical knowledge aligned with modern industry demands. The establishment and growth of the Technology Unit, which offers Engineering Technology (E.Tech) and Bio-System Technology (B.Tech), stand as a remarkable academic milestone in the college’s journey.
Establishment and Leadership
The Technology Unit was first initiated during the tenure of then-Principal Mr. S. Ananthasivam, a visionary leader who laid the groundwork for introducing technology education at the school. He played a vital role in initiating the construction of laboratories and sourcing the required technical resources. His successor, Principal Mr. K. Ravithas, continued this developmental work, further enriching the academic and infrastructural facilities.
The initiative also received strong political and administrative backing. In February 2017, Hon. R. Sampanthan, MP, and Hon. K. Thurairetnasingham, MP, laid the foundation stone, symbolizing the formal beginning of the Technology Unit. Shortly thereafter, on 12th June 2017, the Additional Provincial Director of Education, Mr. Vijayananthamoorthy, officially inaugurated the academic courses, marking the start of structured teaching and learning within the Technology stream. The unit was formally launched on 1st March 2019 by Hon. K. Thurairetnasingham, MP, in a milestone event for the college.
One of the most influential figures in the success of the Technology Unit was its first Sectional Head, Mr. N. Umashankar. A tireless and passionate educator, Mr. Umashankar dedicated his full time and energy to the development of the unit. He worked with remarkable commitment to establish laboratory infrastructure, guide students through practical sessions, coordinate with staff, and lay a strong academic and operational foundation. His hard work and visionary leadership were crucial in transforming the initial concept into a successful reality. Today, his legacy continues to inspire both students and staff.
Later, the leadership was taken up by Mrs. S. Sobha, who carried forward the mission with equal dedication, ensuring the continued growth and success of both the E.Tech and B.Tech streams.
Engineering Technology (E.Tech)
The Engineering Technology stream focuses on core engineering disciplines such as mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering. Students are trained in engineering drawing, workshop techniques, and practical applications of engineering principles. With a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, the stream equips students with critical skills for pursuing careers in engineering, manufacturing, and technical services.
One of the stream’s proudest achievements was by S. Pranith, who secured 5th rank in the Trincomalee district and was successfully admitted into a university technology program—an inspiring milestone for the entire unit.
Bio-System Technology (B.Tech)
The Bio-System Technology stream integrates biology with technology, focusing on sustainable development areas such as agriculture, renewable energy, food production, and environmental technology. Students benefit from a curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with field-based learning, allowing them to develop practical skills vital for environmentally-focused careers.
Students like M. Anushika and U. Nashikethan have brought honor to the school by achieving excellent district-level results and gaining university placements, showcasing the academic strength and career potential of the B.Tech stream.
Academic Achievements
The academic performance of the Technology Unit has been exceptional. In the 2022 A/L examinations, the B.Tech stream achieved a 100% pass rate, while the E.Tech stream reached a 90% pass rate. In total, 11 students from the Technology Unit secured university admissions—an extraordinary accomplishment considering the program's relatively recent establishment.
Challenges and Future Aspirations
Despite its successes, the Technology Unit faces challenges such as limited laboratory resources, funding constraints, and the need for more specialized teacher training. However, with ongoing support from the school administration, education authorities, and the local community, the college is actively working to overcome these hurdles.
Future development plans include:
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Expanding and upgrading laboratory infrastructure.
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Promoting student innovation and entrepreneurship.
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Organizing technical workshops, exhibitions, and competitions.
Conclusion
The Technology Unit at T/T/Orr’s Hill Vivekananda College is a shining example of what visionary leadership, community support, and dedicated teaching can achieve. With pioneers like Mr. N. Umashankar, who laid a strong foundation through relentless effort, and successors like Mrs. S. Sobha, who continue to uphold its mission, the unit has become a model for technical education in the Trincomalee Education Zone.
By offering relevant, skill-based subjects such as E.Tech and B.Tech, the school is nurturing a generation of students who are technically competent, socially responsible, and prepared for the demands of a fast-evolving world.
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