Written by: Rtr. Sanduni Sandeepa

Driven by a commitment to community service, the Rotaract Club of University of Sri Jayewardenepura successfully completed “Sihina Piyapath”, the third phase of its four-part “Sihin Piyawara” project. The main goal of this initiative was to improve school students’ knowledge and skills in a fast-changing world, ensuring that no child is left behind. To achieve this, the club visited schools and conducted seven interactive learning sessions for students.

The project took place across the Western Province, covering the Colombo, Gampaha, and Kalutara districts during October and November. Through seven successful school sessions, the club shared this vital knowledge with more than 500 students. The sessions focused on two important pillars. The first was mastering English as a tool for global communication, while the second was understanding digital safety so students could use the internet securely and responsibly. These lessons equipped students with language skills and cyber awareness to help them pursue their dreams safely.

Specialised Digital Awareness Sessions

Of the seven school sessions, a major highlight was the three specialised digital safety sessions designed for Grade 8 and Grade 9 students who are actively exploring the internet. To provide effective guidance, the club partnered with experts from the Hithavathi Foundation to build a strong foundation in cyber hygiene.

The sessions began on 16 October at Gothami Vidyalaya, Gampaha, for Grade 8 students. They continued on 21 October at Dharmapala College, Arawwala, for Grades 8 and 9, and successfully concluded on 10 November at Moragahahena Maha Vidyalaya, Horana.

Instead of focusing solely on theoretical explanations, the instructors used real-world examples to demonstrate how everyday internet use can expose users to cyber threats, online bullying, and privacy issues. Supporting SDG 9 (Digital Literacy & Safety), the sessions focused on practical protection strategies, teaching students how to safeguard personal information, deal with cyberbullying, and report inappropriate behaviour online.

English Language Sessions

Alongside the digital safety track, the remaining four sessions focused on improving students’ English language skills, supporting SDG 4 (Quality Education). This part of the project helped senior students preparing for their important G.C.E. Ordinary Level (O/L) examinations.

The sessions began on 13 October for Grade 10 students at Visaka Balika Vidyalaya, Sapugaskanda, followed by a session on 20 October for Grade 11 students at Vijayaba Maha Vidyalaya. The programme continued on 21 October at Moragahahena Maha Vidyalaya, Horana, and concluded on 26 October at Koratota Sri Somananda Maha Vidyalaya, Kaduwela.

To provide students with valuable academic support, Rotaract USJ brought together a dedicated team of teachers. They collaborated with Mr. S. Roshain Randiwela from the Britishway English Academy and a resource team from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura’s English Department, including Ms. Sanjalie Mandika, Ms. Charya, Ms. Sachini, Ms. Banduni, Ms. Chamindi, Ms. Lochana, and Ms. Amanda.

These engaging and interactive seminars made complex grammar rules easier to understand, introduced useful examination tips, and explained new vocabulary. This helped reduce examination stress, build students’ confidence, and equip them with the tools needed to achieve better results.

A Collective Effort Towards a Brighter Future

The success of “Sihina Piyapath” demonstrates the power of teamwork, passion, and effective planning. The project was made possible through the dedication of the Organising Committee (OC) members, who put considerable effort into planning each session. Guided by the leadership of the Community Service Directors, the project brought practical knowledge and learning opportunities directly to the community.

At the same time, members of the Rotaract Club of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura worked together throughout the initiative. From managing on-site activities to interacting directly with school students, the combined efforts of the OC, the directors, and club members ensured the successful completion of Phase 03.

Through these efforts, “Sihina Piyapath” created valuable learning opportunities and left a positive impression on hundreds of school students.

Graphic Designed by: Rtr.