True leadership in a state school

Our apartment complex abuts Yasodara Vidyalaya, on Kynsey Road, Colombo 8. The residents have a serious problemme with sound pollution arising from their ‘morning programme’. The speakers blare out in high decibels, causing considerable discomfort. Is it that the school authorities are simply uncaring or unaware?

We (three of us) decided to be gracious, assumed the latter and approached the Principal to ‘talk things over’. The place had a welcoming air and we immediately got the impression that this is a well-managed place. The staff were extremely polite. Our appointment was at 10.30; we were 10 minutes early. The Principal was not in her office as she was taking the class of an absent teacher (a good sign). In the meantime, her deputy made us feel very comfortable. At precisely 10.29 the Principal walked in (another good sign).

We had a very fruitful discussion. In short, we who went in with somewhat suppressed aggression were ‘turned’ into friends by the charm of the Principal and her teachers. They understood our problems, and we theirs. We undertook to help in updating their archaic communication system and in many other ways.

A walk around the school showed it to be spotlessly clean; walls were adorned by beautiful art and useful messages, with no graffiti. The little of the garden there (80 perches for 3000 children) was well maintained. In spite of the constricted space, it projected that indefinable quality of ‘good feeling’. In short, if I were a student I would be very happy here. All these girls receive comprehensive training in ‘good and proper living’; I hope they take these messages home and practise the same.

It is clear that all this is possible because of good leadership. It has been achieved not by didactic tyrannous rule, but by a combination of charm, inclusiveness, a firm hand and a clear sense of direction. Everyone seemed to be part of one happy proud family.

This school is a shining example of what could be achieved in the state sector by good leadership, i.e. when the Head heads.

It is a good model of leadership for any other department to follow.

And not a bad one for the country either.

Dr ASOKA WEERAKKODY

Colombo