Mirror Magazine

Mirror Magazine

The spirit of love
By Marisa de Silva
In the true spirit of celebrating love for one another on Valentine’s Day, the Electrical Engineering Society (EESoc) of the University of Moratuwa, organised a day of fun and frolic for the students of the School for the Hearing Impaired, Ratmalana, on February 14, at the University premises.

The objective of the EESoc (a part of the Engineering Faculty) is to create a forum for electrical engineers of Moratuwa, whilst also serving the community. The day comprised both indoor and outdoor entertainment meant for the 250 young charges, who were rearing to go! While a magic show, an art competition and general knowledge quiz (for juniors and seniors), and a film took care of the indoor activities. The outdoor activities included cricket, group games similar to outward bound activities where they worked in teams and made dummies with provided material, solved various puzzles and participated in some obstacle races. Typical Avurudu games like kana mutti kadima, kiri kema completed the days events.

A definite highlight of the day though, was the two cultural items presented by the kids themselves, who performed two dance items dressed in lovely colourful costumes.

In addition to having hearing impairment, some of these children were mute too. Most of the children have financial difficulties as well. This has had a severe impact on both their personality and mental state, the Principle said.

The EESoc donated a year’s supply (300 batteries) of hearing aid batteries, worth Rs. 10,000, and a white board plus paint sets and material, books on general knowledge and chocolate to the winners of the various competitions, which were all part of the event. Each child was also presented with a gift pack, which consisted of two 100-page exercise books, a pen, pencil, and a chocolate.

This particular annual event has been a pet project of the EESoc for the past five years. Having this project is mutually beneficial, as not only do the children have a fun-filled day out, but, even the students involved in organising the event learn to appreciate all the little things in life we usually take for granted.

This was quite evident by the large turn-out of support crew for the event. Many of the students, together with their friends who volunteered to help, came and helped out with the serving of refreshments and basically got the show on the road!

Over the years this project has always received a positive response from everyone from the Vice Chancellor to the lecturers, undergraduates and even graduates. Much of the events financial support comes from some of the aforementioned persons. This event was a true team effort made in aid of a deserving cause.

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