Royal College Union
The Official Alumni Association of Royal College Colombo - Serving since 1891
About the Royal College Union
The Royal College Union (RCU) is the Official Alumni Association of the Royal College Colombo. Founded in 1891 as a society for alumni of the college, it is the oldest such alumni society in Sri Lanka. The Royal College Union was set up to further the interests of the College and its past and present members, and to keep former pupils in touch with each other and with the school.
Annually the RCU organizes many sporting events including the Royal-Thomian, the Bradby Shield Encounter, the Royal Thomian Regatta as well as national initiatives such as EDEX and carry out development projects for the college, as well as manage and maintain much of the school's infrastructure such as the Hostel, Royal College Sports Complex, the J.R. Jayawardene Sports Complex, RCU Skills Centre and the Swimming Pool.
Legacy and Impact
The Union played its part in no small measure to make Royal College what it is today. Playing the multiple roles of past pupil, guardian, parent, friend and sibling, the RCU since its inception, has been nurturing Royal College to become the country's premier institution in the primary and secondary education system.
The dedication, devotion and commitment of the alumni abundantly reflect their love, affection and heart for 'Mother Royal'. They consider it an opportunity to "repay" the debt they owe to their school, for making them what they are today. The Royal College Union, affectionately and commonly known as the RCU, perhaps stands distinguished among others, in the enormity of its contribution to the school, and strives to be exemplary amongst past pupil fraternities.
Key Initiatives & Activities
Sporting Events
- • Royal-Thomian Cricket Match
- • Bradby Shield Rugby Encounter
- • Royal Thomian Regatta
- • Inter-school competitions
Infrastructure
- • Royal College Hostel
- • Sports Complex
- • J.R. Jayawardene Sports Complex
- • RCU Skills Centre
- • Swimming Pool
Educational Programs
- • EDEX Educational Exhibition
- • Development projects
- • Skills development programs
- • Alumni mentoring
Alumni Network
- • Global alumni connections
- • Past pupil relationships
- • Networking events
- • Professional development
Community Service
- • National initiatives
- • Social responsibility projects
- • Community outreach
- • Charitable activities
Heritage Preservation
- • College traditions
- • Historical preservation
- • Cultural continuity
- • Legacy maintenance
Historical Milestones
Foundation
Royal College Union established as the first alumni association in Sri Lanka, setting the precedent for organized past pupil societies.
First Royal-Thomian
The Royal-Thomian cricket encounter began, becoming the world's second-longest uninterrupted cricket series, organized by RCU.
Infrastructure Development
Extensive infrastructure development including sports complexes, hostels, and educational facilities managed by RCU.
Modern Initiatives
Launch of EDEX and other national educational initiatives, continuing RCU's commitment to Sri Lankan education.
Connection to ORANZ
The Old Royalist Association of New Zealand (ORANZ) maintains strong ties with the Royal College Union, serving as the official representative body for Royal College alumni living in New Zealand. This connection ensures that Old Royalists in New Zealand remain part of the larger Royal College family worldwide.
Through ORANZ, New Zealand-based alumni contribute to RCU initiatives, participate in global Royal College events, and maintain the traditions and values that unite all Royalists regardless of geographical location. The collaboration between ORANZ and RCU strengthens the global network of Royal College past pupils.
Join the Legacy
The Royal College Union continues to be the cornerstone of Royal College's success, bringing together generations of Royalists in service to their alma mater. Whether through sporting events, educational initiatives, or infrastructure development, the RCU ensures that Royal College remains Sri Lanka's premier educational institution.
As Old Royalists living in New Zealand, ORANZ members are part of this grand tradition, contributing to the global Royal College community while maintaining the bonds that make us all part of the Royal family.
Royal College Union
Visit the official RCU website to learn more about current initiatives and connect with the global Royal College community.
Visit RCU WebsiteORANZ Community
Join ORANZ to connect with fellow Old Royalists in New Zealand and participate in local Royal College activities.
Learn About ORANZ