Sir Ivor Jennings Museum Inaugurated at University of Colombo’s Historic College House, Preserving a Century of Sri Lankan Higher Education
Sir Ivor Jennings Museum was officially opened at the College House premises on 11th April 2026 under the patronage of the Vice Chancellor, Professor Indika Mahesh Karunathilake. The Rector of the Sri Palee Campus, Deans of the Faculties, Directors of the Institutes, Registrar, Bursar, Acting Librarian, Director of the International Office, and Administrative and Finance Officers participated in the event.
University of Colombo has officially dedicated the Sir Ivor Jennings Museum within the historic College House, preserving the landmark’s transition from the 1912 Regina Walauwa of the de Soysa family to the “Cradle of Sri Lankan Higher Education.” This museum chronicles a century of academic evolution, beginning with the 1921 University College, the formation of the University of Ceylon in 1942 under Sir Ivor Jennings, and its eventual transition to the University of Colombo. By showcasing rare photographs and the building’s storied architecture, the museum stands as a permanent tribute to the history of Sri Lanka’s Higher Education and the legacy of the University of Colombo as a historical landmark in Sri Lanka’s higher education.
