Zahira College, Milestones of events

Zahira has crossed the 115th year milestone. Along this long journey it had seen many great successes and also faced severe drawbacks and disasters. Let's review some of the important events that Zahira has gone through upto now.

1891
To a community hostile to western influence Proctor M. C. Siddi Lebbe of Kandy made an impassioned appeal for Muslim Education.

1892
Mr. A. M. Wapiche Marikar and Mr. I. L. M. Abdul Azeez overcome the indifference and hostility of the Muslims of the day and established a Muslim School with the active patronage of Ahmed Orabi Pasha of Egypt. It was called Al Madrasathul Zahira.

1894
Al Madrasathul Zahira registered as Maradana Mohammeddan Boys' School. Manager Mr. A. M. Wapiche Marikar No. on roll 35 Students.

1905
Foundation stone for a two storey building laid by Moulavi Rafiudeen Ahmed, B.A., L.L.B. Cricket and Soccer introduced.

1906
New building declared open by Orabi Pasha.

1911
School was renamed Muslim Zahira College. Mr.O.E. Martinus became first principal.

1917
Mr. Wapiche Marikar, after 25 years of devoted and selfless service hands over the management to Maradana Mosque . Mr. Wapiche Marikar was the mainstay of the school in the early and most difficult days. Mr. N. H. M. Abdul Cader appointed Manager.