Kegalle — Supporting educational development and community welfare, the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) alongside the Shri Hela Cultural Collaboration Foundation (SHCCF) contributed to the "Manusath Abhiman" Social Care Program. The initiative took place on March 11th at KE/Dehi/Mallallapola Maha Vidyalaya, located within the Dehiowita Education Zone of the Kegalle District.
Organized under the direction of Mr. Priyadarshana Rodrigu, Assistant Director of Social Services and Welfare Affairs for the SHCCF, the event aimed to empower students and enhance school infrastructure in rural communities.
Strengthening Library Facilities and Infrastructure
A major highlight of the program was the establishment of a brand-new library for KE/Dehi/Mallallapola Maha Vidyalaya. Books valued at LKR 150,000 were donated to enrich the students' learning resources, alongside essential furniture and equipment needed for the facility.
In addition, a wholesome, nutritious lunch was provided to all 386 students attending the school.
Workshops on Drug Prevention, Arts, and Traditional Angampora
To foster holistic student development and well-being, the organizers conducted a series of interactive workshops:
Drug Prevention & Rehabilitation: Led by Dr. Chrishantha J.K.M. Dissanayake, veteran drug prevention and rehabilitation counselor, IHRC Sri Lanka Commissioner, and Founder/Chairman/Director General of SHCCF.
Drama and Performing Arts Session: Conducted by drama director Mr. Gayan Mahagalage.
Traditional Angampora Martial Arts Workshop: Conducted by veteran Angampora master Mr. Sumudu Amalka, introducing students to Sri Lanka's indigenous heritage and self-defense art.
Spiritual Blessings and Recognition of Social Workers
To invoke blessings upon the education and future endeavors of all students, an almsgiving and Buddhist religious ceremony was held for seven venerated monks.
During the ceremony, 15 dedicated individuals engaged in community service were recognized and presented with awards for their contributions to social care. Addressing the gathered guests and students, Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake highlighted the vital importance of community care initiatives and announced that the IHRC and SHCCF will extend their maximum support to expand the "Manusath Abhiman" program to underprivileged schools across Sri Lanka.
Distinguished Guests and Community Support
The event was attended by key IHRC coordinators and SHCCF directors, including Mr. Dhammika Sisira Kumara, Mr. Hemantha Vitharana, Mr. Isuru (Owner of Isuru Salon), Mr. Priyadarshana Rodrigu, Mr. Sumudu Amalka, Mr. Gayan Mahagalage, Mr. Wijesinghe Malallapola, and Mr. Prasanna Vidanapathirana.
The teaching staff and parents of Mallallapola Maha Vidyalaya extended their wholehearted cooperation to make the event a resounding success.
