This year marks the 35th death anniversary of Professor J. E. Jayasuriya, a towering figure whose contributions to Sri Lankan education continue to shape minds decades after his passing. While his name appears on countless textbooks and policy documents, the man behind these revolutionary educational reforms remained largely unknown to the public. In an exclusive interview, Professor Elsie Kothelawala, a distinguished academic and close colleague, shares intimate insights into the life and legacy of this remarkable educator.
The Visionary Behind Sri Lanka's Educational Revolution
Professor J. E. Jayasuriya wasn't just an educator; he was an architect of minds who fundamentally transformed how Sri Lanka approached learning and teaching. His innovative methodologies and progressive thinking laid the foundation for modern educational practices that continue to influence classrooms across the island nation today.
"Professor Jayasuriya possessed an extraordinary ability to see beyond conventional educational boundaries," recalls Professor Kothelawala. "He understood that true education wasn't about memorizing facts, but about nurturing critical thinking and fostering intellectual curiosity in students."
Born into an era when traditional teaching methods dominated Sri Lankan schools, Jayasuriya challenged the status quo with revolutionary ideas that seemed radical at the time but are now considered fundamental principles of effective education.
Pioneering Educational Methodologies
One of Professor Jayasuriya's most significant contributions was his development of student-centered learning approaches. Long before these concepts became mainstream globally, he advocated for interactive classroom environments where students were active participants rather than passive recipients of information.
His textbooks, which remain reference materials in Sri Lankan schools today, reflected this philosophy. Rather than presenting dry facts, they encouraged students to question, analyze, and draw their own conclusions. This approach helped develop a generation of independent thinkers who could adapt to changing circumstances.
Professor Kothelawala emphasizes how Jayasuriya's methods were particularly revolutionary in the Sri Lankan context: "He introduced concepts that made learning accessible to students from all backgrounds, breaking down barriers that had previously limited educational opportunities."
Impact on Policy and Educational Reform
Beyond the classroom, Professor Jayasuriya's influence extended to national educational policy. His research and recommendations shaped major educational reforms that modernized Sri Lanka's learning systems. Policy documents from the era bear his intellectual fingerprints, reflecting his deep understanding of both local needs and global educational trends.
His work on curriculum development ensured that Sri Lankan education remained relevant while preserving cultural values. This delicate balance between modernization and tradition became a hallmark of his approach, influencing educational policy for generations.
The ripple effects of his policy contributions can be seen in contemporary Sri Lankan education, where his emphasis on holistic development and critical thinking continues to guide educational planners and administrators.
Personal Qualities That Defined a Legend
According to Professor Kothelawala, what set Jayasuriya apart wasn't just his intellectual brilliance, but his genuine compassion for students and unwavering commitment to educational excellence. "He treated every student as an individual with unique potential," she recalls. "This personal touch made him not just a teacher, but a mentor who inspired countless young minds."
His dedication extended beyond regular classroom hours. Jayasuriya was known for his open-door policy, always available to help struggling students or discuss complex concepts with those seeking deeper understanding. This accessibility made him a beloved figure among students and colleagues alike.
Continuing Influence in Modern Education
Three and a half decades after his passing, Professor Jayasuriya's educational philosophy remains remarkably relevant. His emphasis on critical thinking, student engagement, and holistic development aligns perfectly with contemporary educational best practices.
Modern educators in Sri Lanka continue to draw inspiration from his work, adapting his methodologies to incorporate new technologies while maintaining his core principles. His textbooks, regularly updated by devoted colleagues, continue to serve new generations of students.
Professor Kothelawala notes that international educational trends often echo concepts that Jayasuriya pioneered decades ago, testament to his forward-thinking approach and deep understanding of learning processes.
A Legacy That Transcends Time
As we commemorate this significant anniversary, it becomes clear that Professor J. E. Jayasuriya's true monument isn't built of stone or metal, but exists in the minds he shaped and the educational systems he transformed. His legacy lives on through every student who learns to think critically, every teacher who embraces student-centered methods, and every policy that prioritizes holistic educational development.
Through Professor Kothelawala's insights, we glimpse the man behind the legend – a dedicated educator whose vision continues to illuminate the path forward for Sri Lankan education, proving that truly great teachers never really leave us; they live on in every mind they've touched and every life they've transformed.