Radio Lab

A Catholic Church-run Technical Education Institute
Founded by Rev. Fr. Ignatius Perera
Specializing in Electronics and IT Training

About Us

Radio Lab is a pioneering technical education institute established under the guidance of the Catholic Church in Sri Lanka. Founded in 1947 by Rev. Fr. Ignatius Perera, it began as a radio electronics training facility at St. Joseph’s College, Colombo, and expanded in 1962 to a dedicated vocational center in Kotahena. The institute focuses on empowering youth, including school dropouts, with practical skills in electronics and modern IT, combining technical excellence with Christian values of service and compassion.

Today, Radio Lab continues its legacy of providing high-quality, hands-on training to prepare students for careers in technology.

Our Founder

Rev. Fr. Alphonsus Narcissus Ignatius Perera (1915–1981)

Known as the "Radio Priest," Fr. Ignatius Perera was a brilliant self-taught electronics engineer and ordained Catholic priest. Born in Negombo, he mastered radio and electronics while studying in Rome, fixing critical equipment including Vatican Radio transmissions.

Returning to Sri Lanka, he established the Radio Lab to teach radio theory, repairs, and amplifier building. His Kotahena facility provided vocational rehabilitation for disadvantaged youth. A humble and generous servant, Fr. Ignatius dedicated his life to education, music, and helping the needy.