Written By: Rtr. Ashmitha Karunarathne

“Every drop of water has the power to change a life”, and thus, under the Community Service avenue, the Rotaract Club of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura recently completed “Drops of Hope,” an immense, three-phase initiative dedicated to uplifting underserved communities.

Its purpose was simple yet profound-to ensure that every child has access to safe drinking water, clean washroom facilities, and a healthier, empowered learning environment; it was rooted in the vision of supporting major UN SDGs:

• SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being)
• SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation)
• SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities)

This journey spanned from late September to early November to create a long-lasting and measurable impact on the lives of more than 350 beneficiaries.

Phase 1 – “The First Drop”

The foundation of “Drops of Hope” was built upon addressing one of the most urgent challenges faced by rural schools in Sri Lanka, unsafe and insufficient drinking water. Without safe water, students spend more time surviving than studying. To solve this, we installed a state-of-the-art Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water Refinery Filter Treatment System at Siri Dammathilaka School, Matale. Completed on November 7th with constructional support from UNA Engineering (Pvt) Ltd as the Official Construction Partner, this system now provides a reliable stream of purified water, immediately improving student health, hydration, and school attendance.

With this, the project’s first and most essential promise was fulfilled: guaranteeing clean drinking water that transforms daily life for children.

Phase 2 – “Tender Touch”

The second phase addressed another silent crisis, which was the broken, unhygienic washroom facilities in underprivileged schools. Poor sanitation not only leads to infections but also robs children of comfort and dignity. Through this phase, we renovated and restored critical washroom spaces in two schools:

• Upadyaya Vidyalaya, Panadura
• Dalthara Kanishta Vidyalaya

The effort went beyond repairing structures; it focused on making the facilities healthy and respectful learning environments for children, where they feel safe and valued. It also included awareness sessions and a donation drive so students had knowledge and facilities for proper hygiene practices.

Phase 3 – “Clean Sphere”

What makes “Drops of Hope” truly exceptional is its strong emphasis on sustainability. The final phase, “Clean Sphere,” ensured that the improvements made would not slowly disappear over time. Students from schools, Siri Dharmathilaka School, Matale, Upadyaya Vidyalaya, Panadura, and Dalthara Kanishta Vidyalaya participated in meaningful awareness sessions on hygiene, environmental care, and proper maintenance. By empowering children to take responsibility, the Rotaract Club planted the seeds of lifelong healthy habits and environmental consciousness. Additionally, donation packs containing essential cleaning and hygiene resources helped the schools implement these new practices sustainably.

This entire multi-phase initiative was made possible through strong collaboration with NOLIMIT, the Official Silver Partner, whose support reinforced the project’s reach and sustainability. Their involvement demonstrated how corporate contribution can fuel community-driven change. In addition to the sponsors, the dedicated resource persons who conducted the awareness sessions played a crucial role, offering their time and expertise to ensure the children received valuable knowledge and guidance that strengthened the long-term impact of the project.

“Drops of Hope” is not just a name; it represents a promise – a promise that every child deserves health, dignity, and the opportunity to learn in a nurturing environment. By addressing clean water, sanitation, and long-term sustainability strategically, this community service sets a very strong benchmark for impactful community service by the Rotaract Club of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. With each drop of purified water, each renovated washroom, and each child empowered to take care of the environment, hope continues.

Graphic Design by: Rtr. Nimna Rodrigo