Dear Peterites,
Wherever you read this — Colombo or Auckland, Washington or Ontario, London or Melbourne, Dubai or elsewhere — you are home the moment you arrive on this page. The OBU website exists for a single purpose: to keep the Peterite family united across oceans, decades, and generations, so that the bond formed at Bambalapitiya endures despite distance and time.
The Old Boys’ Union approaches a milestone few alumni bodies attain: one hundred years of service to Peterites and to our alma mater. That century was not the work of one generation alone; it was built, batch by batch, by every alumnus who gave his time, resources, and loyalty to keep the Union relevant and purposeful. As we near this centenary, we do more than look back with pride; we look forward with a clear sense of purpose, asking what each of us — senior alumni, mid-career alumni, and recent graduates alike — can contribute to strengthen the OBU for the century ahead.
I am Dr Nirmal De Silva, newly elected President of the OBU for 2026/27. I accept this responsibility with humility, conscious that the collective wisdom and experience in this community far surpass my own, and with a firm commitment to serve. My vision for this term rests on three principal commitments.
Continuity- We will preserve and advance the meaningful initiatives already underway; the projects, traditions, and events that shape our calendar will continue without disruption. We shall not change for the sake of change; rather, we will build deliberately upon the foundations laid by those who served the OBU before us, for this is the truest form of respect for their service.
Collaboration- A Union approaching its centenary is only as strong as the bridges it builds between senior alumni and younger Peterites, across Batch groups, Foundations, Overseas Branches, and between the OBU and the school itself. My Committee and I will create genuine forums for mentorship and engagement so that no Peterite, regardless of when he left school, feels disconnected from this family.
Sustainability- We will pursue financial, operational, and cultural sustainability. Financially, we will work to diversify and stabilise the OBU’s funding so the Union does not depend on the generosity of a few. Operationally, we will professionalise governance, record-keeping, and event management so the Union runs effectively irrespective of personnel. Culturally, we will ensure that the pride, belonging, and sense of duty that define the Peterite spirit are faithfully transmitted to each new generation of alumni.
As we approach this historic milestone, I extend a sincere invitation to every Peterite in Sri Lanka and across the diaspora to participate actively in our centenary journey. Whether through your Batch group, Foundation, local chapter, your time, ideas, or financial support, there is a place for you in this endeavour. This centenary belongs to all of us, and it will be strongest when built together.
Together, let us honour our roots, uphold our traditions, and pursue excellence in all we do. Thank you to every Peterite for your continued support and trust.
Virtus et Veritas
Dr Nirmal De Silva
President, St. Peter’s College OBU