On Sunday 4th June, the new Lahiru Pre-School was opened in Seenigama, in the grounds behind the current Foundation of Goodness Relief Centre Secreteriat. The Stafford International School (SIS), from Colombo, has agreed to sponsor the Pre-School in Seenigama for a period of three years. The new Pre-School comprises a Playgroup of 3-4 year old children and a Kindergarten of 4-5 year old children. There are currently 45 local children attending the Pre-School and it is expected that there will be approximately 50 children in each yearly intake. The children come from various nearby villages in the region, including Seenigama, Udumulla, Malawenna and Werellana.

The opening ceremony was attended by four teachers from SIS, including the Pre-School Head Teacher, Mrs. Mangalika Gunewardene, and one of the directors, Mrs. Kanthi Wettimuny, who even travelled down to Seenigama the day before to assist in setting up the classrooms before the official opening. The offical opening commenced with the traditional Sri Lankan ceremonies. Some of the new students, in their tiny brand new uniforms offered betel leaves to the chief guests (those from SIS and Kushil Gunasekera, our founder) and worshipped them by bowing down to the ground. Next, Mrs. Mangalika Gunewardene and Mrs. Kanthi Wettimuny declared the new Pre-School officially open by cutting the ribbon over the door of the main building. This was followed by the lighting of the oil lamp, seth pirith (Buddhist Chanting), a welcome address, a few words from a teacher from SIS and a parent of one of the new students, followed by a vote of thanks from Kushil Gunasekera. Subsequently, the first class was held for the children during which time they happily drew pictures in the brand new rooms, followed by refreshments for all.The day was a tremendous success and we would like to thank both the foundation and village committee staff for all their hard efforts and for pulling together as a team.

All of the new Pre-School students, particularly those from Udumulla, come from very poor families - many also tsunami-affected. Consequently, it was essential that this school be run free of charge. One of the key features of this new school will be the provision of a sound basis in English language skills. In this way, the Pre-School will greatly differ from other schools of its kind in the area. The emphasis on English education will be incorporated into a highly diverse curriculum so that these children will have a sound overall grounding before they move on to the public schools. The curriculum will include Sinhala, Introduction to Numbers, Music, Health and Hygiene, to mention but a few. Two local teachers have received extensive and thorough training at Stafford International School, whilst two teaching assistants have also been recruited particularly for this school.

It is hoped that the new Pre-School will set a precedent in yet another area of learning - that of sound values (such as kindness, sharing, concern and compassion). The teachers have been asked to reward children who display such traits and to cultivate these traits in the children from an early age. Since this new school is so unique and will be setting the standard for other schools in the area to follow, the Foundation of Goodness has also donated a computer to be utilised to computerise all school records. Individual donors have been very generous with their donations and through these, we have provided the first intake of students with uniforms and sandals.

The Foundation of Goodness has donated two buildings (which previously housed our Maternity Clinic and Computer and English Classes) to accommodate the Pre-School. Stafford International School has, thus far, provided for the upgrading of buildings, constructing a new toilet, painting, providing furniture, landscaping and school supplies. The play park has also been significantly upgraded. In addition, SIS has agreed to financially cover the teachers' salaries and additional running costs. Stafford International School will continue to sponsor the Lahiru Pre-School for the next three years. This is a fantastic commitment on the part of SIS and they deserve much credit for assisting to establish this Pre-School which will set the standard of education for the region.

PLEASE NOTE: The Lahiru Pre-School is currently seeking donors to sponsor mid-morning snacks for the children. Particularly in the tropical climate, village children find it difficult to concentrate and can become very weak due to an inability to afford to bring a snack from home. To feed 45 to 50 children a nutritional snack comprising a piece of fruit and a glass of milk every morning will cost approximately 16,900 Sri Lankan Rupees (or US $169) per month. We would greatly appreciate any kind offers for assistance in ensuring the children receive the appropriate nutrition. If you are interested in contributing, please contact us as soon as possible.

To view a recent article regarding the new Pre-School, please click here.