2026 January 08

Best Wishes to the New Principal of the Theological College of Lanka, Pilimatalawa

Our heartfelt best wishes are extended to Rev. Leslie Dhareeju on his appointment as the Principal of the Theological College of Lanka (TCL), Pilimatalawa, commencing in 2026. We pray that the Good Lord will bless him abundantly and grant him wisdom, discernment, and knowledge as he is entrusted with the responsibility of sustaining and developing this great seminary for the glory of God and the extension of God’s Kingdom.

As Rev. Dhareeju begins his tenure at this premier ecumenical seminary, the year 2026 marks an important phase in the life and mission of TCL. The college continues its strong commitment to theological education through its academic programmes, including the Master of Christian Studies (MCS), Bachelor of Christian Studies (BCS), and a range of diploma programmes, with fresh admissions open for the 2025–2026 academic year. These programmes, including external courses, serve clergy and lay leaders across the island.

TCL is presently guided by a multi-year strategic roadmap centred on the vision of “Becoming a Sustainable Missional Community.” This theme, introduced during the college’s Diamond Jubilee, reflects a deep engagement with contemporary socio-political and ecological challenges facing Sri Lanka, calling the Church to faithful, relevant, and transformative witness.

Among the key priorities under Rev. Dhareeju’s leadership are the pursuit of University Grants Commission (UGC) accreditation for academic courses, continued faculty development, and the strengthening of local theological scholarship through research and publication. These goals aim to further enhance the academic credibility and missional impact of the college.

Founded in 1963 by the Anglican, Methodist, and Baptist Churches, and later joined by the Presbyterian Church, the Theological College of Lanka remains the only accredited ecumenical Protestant seminary in Sri Lanka. With training conducted in both Sinhala and Tamil, TCL continues to nurture indigenous theology while upholding its rich ecumenical heritage.

For official inquiries, the Principal may be contacted through the TCL website or via email at principal@tcl.lk.