Foundational Cornerstone
The East Ceylon Arabic College
Standing as one of the premier educational institutions in Eastern Sri Lanka, the college serves as the foundational cornerstone for Islamic schooling in the province.
Founded in 1954, the college was established to address the community's need for qualified jurists, judges, muftis, and scholars. Its mission remains centered on providing beneficial knowledge and fostering a firm commitment to faith, free from deviation.
Regional Context
Sri Lanka at present has a population of about 23.3 million people, with over 10% being Muslims. The Eastern Province is a region where over one-third of the total Muslim population resides in density. Addalaichenai is a village consisting of 100% Muslims, situated in the Ampara District, and is home to prestigious institutions like the South Eastern University of Sri Lanka.
1954
Year of Establishment
Early Challenges
Before the college’s inception, students were forced to travel to Southern Sri Lanka or India to pursue Islamic sciences. These journeys imposed significant financial and emotional burdens, often preventing students from completing their religious education. The scarcity of local scholars left the community's spiritual and educational needs underserved, igniting a collective desire to establish a local institution.
The Founding Conference
Recognizing the urgent need, a grand conference was convened on November 7, 1954, at the Teachers’ Training College hall in Addalaichenai. Led by the late Muhammad Ibrahim (former MP), the assembly listened to a moving address by Ash-Sheikh Abdullah bin Abi Bakr. The participants resolved to establish the college the very next day.
Land was donated by Al-Haj N.M. Jamaldeen Moulana, Al-Haj S.T. Ahamed Lebbe, and Mrs. M.C.H. Fathummah.
Establishment & Early Milestones
Official Inauguration
The college was officially inaugurated with 12 pioneering students. Sheikh Abdullah was appointed as the inaugural principal.
First Campus
First dedicated temporary Thatched hut was constructed through the generosity of local donors.
Official Registration
Registered with the Ministry of Education during the tenure of Minister W. Dahanayake. Later registered with Ministry of Islamic Affairs (MRCA/13/1/AC/03).
Ceremonial Opening
The beautiful front elevation was ceremonially declared open by Late Al-Haj Sir Razik Fareed, Minister of Trade and Commerce.
First Graduation
On December 10, 1963, the first graduation ceremony was held. 16 students received the Moulavi Al-Alim Certificate. Dr. A.M.A. Azeez was the chief guest.
Subsequent Convocations
"A legacy of producing refined scholars for over six decades."
Leadership Through the Ages
Early Principals
- Sheikh Abdullah (Inaugural) 1954 - 1962
- Sheikh Abdul Samad (Appointed 1962)
- Sheikh Ismail of Addalaichenai
- Sheikh Miralabi Muhiyadeen of Nintavur
- Sheikh Ismail of Nintavur
Distinguished Contributors
Sheikh Umar Aliyar
"Al-Sheikh Al-Sharqi"
Served 16 years. Built hostels, library, and increased enrollment to 100 students. Constructed the multi-storey building with Muslim World League support.
Successive Leadership (1987 - Present)
Sheikh Adam Bawa Shah Al-Hamid
Appointed 1987 - Significant GrowthSheikh Muhammad Hashim Al-Ghafoori
Appointed 1991Sheikh Muhammad Abdul Cadir (Al-Baqawi)
1993 - Administrative & Academic ProgressSheikh Muhammad bin Abdullah (Al-Bahji)
2004Sheikh Hamim Sadaqa Al Bahji
Recent TenureSheikh ALM Ashraff Al-Sharqi
Appointed 2017 - Current PrincipalLegacy of Excellence
Achievements & Contributions
Regarded as the mother institution of Islamic schools in the province, celebrating its Diamond Jubilee (60 years).
Graduated Preachers
Active in the field of religious service.
Bachelor's Degrees
From local and international universities.
PhD Holders
Serving as distinguished university professors.
Higher Studies
Al-Azhar (Cairo) & Islamic University of Madinah.