David C. Sanders: Master educator, visionary leader, and true friend of Sri Lanka

The news of the passing of David Charles Sanders in the UK on 14 October was received in Sri Lanka with profound sorrow and deep gratitude. A British educator by birth, he served Colombo International School (CIS) for nearly three decades from 1994, leaving an indelible mark on generations of students, staff, and families across both the Colombo and Kandy branches. His exceptional dedication was recognised in 2005 when he was honoured with the national title Sri Lanka Rathna.

Administrative vision and a masterclass in pedagogy 

Succeeding founding principal Elizabeth Moir, Sanders brought sharp administrative vision and a masterclass in pedagogy. Under his guidance, CIS cemented its standing as a premier benchmark for international education. He personally mentored young minds towards Oxford, Cambridge, and leading UK medical schools, and his intellectually rich Monday morning assemblies set a gold standard for school leadership.

Yet it is the human moments that we, his students and colleagues, hold most dear. To us, he was the epitome of a wise, kind, and gentle leader.

Odile Melder, former Head of Drama at CIS, recalled that Sanders never made staff feel managed, but rather supported: “He respected my choices and judgement, giving me a completely free hand during my nine and a half years as Head of Drama. He was more of a father figure, cushioning me from difficulties, always generous with his appreciation, and unfailingly humble.”

Former student Dilruha de Silva remembered his approachable nature and trademark humour: “An extraordinary man who took a genuine, personal interest in the school and the wellbeing of every student. He knew each of us by name and enforced his slightly strict rules with a unique blend of firmness, kindness and fairness. I still laugh remembering him walking around with his foot ruler during intervals and school socials, greeting everyone while ensuring couples maintained a strict 12-inch distance!”

Former Head Girl Niroshi recalled how he listened attentively to her weekly lists of school affairs with quiet amusement: “His athleticism, caring nature, and warm, friendly demeanour were all such defining qualities. His quiet strength and kindness made one feel safe, supported, and looked after. He leaves behind a legacy not only of educational excellence, but of authenticity, quiet wisdom, infectious wit, and genuine, fatherly care.”

Though a British educator, Sanders embraced Sri Lanka as his home in heart and spirit. When my wife Premani organised a Sil program for the CIS Junior School at Sambodhi Vihara, Sanders accompanied us to meet the late Ven. Daranagama Kusaladhamma Thero. Before any of us could remove our shoes, he had already removed his, entering the temple premises with profound respect. He named his home in Dorset “Sri Pada”, and for his daughter’s wedding in the UK, he personally brought a traditional Kukula Pahana, so that a symbol of Sri Lanka might shine at the ceremony.

Legendary vitality 

His vitality was legendary. On annual expeditions to World’s End and Sri Pada, he led from the front with energy to spare. On one descent from Sri Pada, he and the front group took a wrong turn towards Ratnapura — a seven-hour walking detour that became a cherished school legend. He was also a familiar figure across Colombo, leaving everyone in his dust as he jogged through the streets in the evenings.

Beyond his academic standing, David possessed a rare personal warmth. He nurtured students not merely for examination papers, but for the world of work, entrepreneurship, and principled citizenship. The lives of my own children — and thousands of alumni globally — stand as enduring proof of his mentorship. At the conclusion of his funeral service in Dorset, he chose to play the CIS anthem as he departed: a final, poignant farewell to the school community he cherished.

As we gather at The Cathedral of Christ the Living Saviour today (9), at 6:00 p.m. for a Service of Thanksgiving and Remembrance, we celebrate the life of an extraordinary leader, an exceptional mentor, and a true gentleman.

May he rest in eternal peace.

(The author is former President, The National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka and Founding Vice Chancellor, Uva Wellassa University)