Launch of Friend and Guide Scheme

The Alumni Association of the University of Colombo is launching a Friend and Guide Scheme for undergraduates of the University of Colombo on Tuesday, February 15 at 5 p.m. Alumni of the University of Colombo who are interested in participating in this project are requested to write in to alumni.colombo @gmail.com or telephone 2585616, the association said.

The scheme envisages appointing a friend and guide to the chosen student, where the student can benefit from the guidance, experience, wisdom and, advice of a 'Friend and Guide'. Often, they just need to feel that there is someone they can turn to, a compassionate listener, respected role model, challenger, supporter or just a trusted older friend. At a minimum, the volunteering 'friend and guide 'would need to keep in touch with the student. A telephone call, visit to the hostel or a visit to the volunteer's home will make a huge difference to the student.

Sadly, there are a large number of students needing such help. As a start, the Alumni Association will launch the scheme with 26 blind undergraduates. The Alumni Association seeks volunteers to be a friend and guide to one of these students. All that is asked is a little time and effort.