Founded in 1942, Zahira College Matale has served as a cornerstone of academic, cultural, and moral development in Sri Lanka. Known for its discipline and inclusivity, Zahira has nurtured generations of students who have gone on to become leaders in their respective fields.
Founded on the 3rd of August, 1942, Zahira College Matale stands as a symbol of academic distinction, cultural identity, and moral excellence. Established during a time of great socio-political change, the school was created to uplift the Muslim community through quality education rooted in values, discipline, and inclusivity.
Zahira began humbly, with limited facilities and a handful of students, yet it carried a bold vision: to produce generations of knowledgeable, responsible, and morally upright citizens. Over the decades, the school has grown into one of the most respected educational institutions in the Central Province and beyond.
Its students have gone on to excel in medicine, law, engineering, education, and public service — both nationally and globally. Zahira’s legacy is built on eight decades of academic achievements, sports victories, and cultural excellence, guided by visionary leadership and dedicated teachers.
“Enter to Learn — Leave to Serve.”
The Old Boys Association exists to foster a lifelong connection among alumni and to uplift our alma mater through support, mentorship, and service.
Supporting underprivileged students through financial aid and academic mentorship.
Connecting Zahirians globally through events, gatherings, and professional opportunities.
Organizing cultural, religious, and community upliftment projects throughout the year.
Contributing to campus development and facility upgrades for future generations.
Since its founding in 1942, Zahira College Matale has been led by visionary educators whose leadership and dedication helped mold generations of students. Here's a look at the principals who carried our legacy forward.
| No | Name | Service From | Service To |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mr. T.S. Sally | 1942.08.03 | 1943.06.29 |
| 2 | Mrs. A. R. M. Nilam | 1943.06.30 | 1945.01.12 |
| 3 | Mr. S. Rauf Pasha | 1945.02.08 | 1946.01.13 |
| 4 | Mr. A. V. Ponnusamy | 1946.01.16 | 1946.03.30 |
| 5 | Mr. Aniff Doray | 1946.04.01 | 1946.04.30 |
| 6 | Mr. M. V. Mathai | 1946.05.01 | 1946.08.31 |
| 7 | Mr. S. P. A. Wadood | 1961.08.28 | 1965.06.01 |
| 8 | Mr. A. Z. Omerdeen | 1965.06.01 | 1968.02.15 |
| 9 | Mr. A. C. M. Zeirideen | 1968.02.16 | 1970.02.04 |
| 10 | Mr. S. H. A. Wadood | 1970.12.01 | 1976.04.07 |
| 11 | Mr. A. M. Rakeem | 1976.04.08 | 1978.04.28 |
| 12 | Mr. A. A. M. Fuaji | 1978.04.29 | 1983.02.14 |
| 13 | Mr. A. C. M. Zeirideen | 1983.02.15 | 1985.02.28 |
| 14 | Mr. A. A. M. Fuaji | 1985.03.01 | 1990.12.31 |
| 15 | Mr. T. Uzair | 1991.01.01 | 1994.09.24 |
| 16 | Mr. A. J. M. Farook | 1994.09.24 | 1996.04.19 |
| 17 | Mr. A. S. A. Azeez | 1996.04.19 | 1998.07.31 |
| 18 | Mr. K. M. Buharideen | 1998.08.01 | 1999.11.05 |
| 19 | Mr. J. M. Nisfer (Actg.) | 1999.11.06 | 2000.02.10 |
| 20 | Mr. N. M. Thaibdeen | 2000.02.11 | 2003.11.12 |
| 21 | Mr. K. M. Buhari | 2003.11.13 | 2006.03.19 |
| 22 | Mr. J. M. Nisfer (Actg.) | 2006.03.20 | 2006.06.15 |
| 23 | Mr. M. K. Saraf (Actg.) | 2006.06.16 | 2007.08.01 |
| 24 | Mr. J. M. Iqbal | 2007.08.02 | 2018.09.02 |
| 25 | Mr. T. Abdul Kalam | 2018.09.13 | 2019.08.14 |
| 26 | Mr. N. M. Siddique | 2019.08.15 | To Date |
The Old Boys Association was founded to unite past pupils and support the school’s legacy.
Celebrated 25 years of Zahira College with alumni reunions and school-wide programs.
Started the annual scholarship fund to support deserving students financially.
Welcomed Zahirians from around the world for a landmark celebration of unity.
Launched the official website and member portal to engage alumni digitally.
We are committed to fostering lifelong connections and strengthening the Zahira College Matale alumni community. Reach out to us for collaborations, event details, or general inquiries.
Zahira College Matale
Old Boys Association
Matale, Sri Lanka
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