Shilpa: Bridging Educational Gaps Across Sri Lanka
View(s):Education is a powerful tool that can transform lives and empower future generations. Yet, for many children in rural Sri Lanka, even the most basic educational resources remain out of reach. In response to this pressing issue, the Rotaract Club of American National College (ANC) launched Project Shilpa—a nationwide initiative dedicated to ensuring equitable access to education for underprivileged children.
What is Project Shilpa?
“Shilpa,” derived from the Sinhala and Sanskrit word meaning knowledge or skill, embodies the spirit of this project: to foster learning, creativity, and opportunity. The project is structured in phases, with each one targeting a specific region of
Sri Lanka, particularly rural and marginalised communities where resources are limited and educational infrastructure is often overlooked.
At its heart, Project Shilpa is not just a donation drive. It is a movement to uplift young learners, instill confidence, and inspire a love for learning—equipping them not just with stationery, but with encouragement, community support, and joy.
A Phased Approach to Impact
Project Shilpa is being rolled out in phases, each targeting a different region based on assessed need. With a strong emphasis on direct engagement and sustainability, each phase includes not just the distribution of school supplies, but also immersive, child-centered programming that fosters creativity, confidence, and curiosity.
Phase One – Ratnapura (February 11th, 2024)
The first phase of Project Shilpa took place in Ratnapura, supporting 100 students from Grades 1 to 5. The day featured interactive activities like storytelling and art, creating a fun, engaging environment. Volunteers connected with teachers to understand students’ needs, and each child received a personalised pack of essential stationery, including books, pencils, pens, rulers, erasers, and colour pencils.
Phase Two – Seruwawila (April 28th, 2024)
Following the success of Ratnapura, the second phase of Project Shilpa took place in the underserved village of Seruwawila in the Trincomalee District.
This time, the project reached a larger number of students—150 children benefited from the donation drive. Each student was given a well-stocked stationery pack, customised to suit their grade level.
More Than Just Stationery
While the distribution of supplies is a key component, Project Shilpa’s broader goal is to inspire and uplift. The team collaborates with teachers and school administrators to understand the unique needs of each community, ensuring that every phase of the project is impactful and respectful of local realities.
In addition to student engagement, future phases aim to include teacher training sessions, mobile libraries, and the introduction of digital learning tools where feasible.
A Vision for Nationwide Change
The Rotaract Club of ANC is already planning the third phase of Project Shilpa, which aims to reach more than 250 students in the central highlands later this year. As the project grows, so does its vision: to create a Sri Lanka where every child, regardless of geography or income, has a fair chance at education.
“This is just the beginning,” said a club representative. “Education is the foundation of every thriving society. Through Project Shilpa, we hope to plant seeds of knowledge and opportunity that will grow for generations.”
Project Shilpa is more than just a distribution of supplies—it’s a commitment to the belief that every child, regardless of where they come from, deserves access to education. With each phase, the project continues to bring hope, inspiration, and opportunity to young minds across Sri Lanka.
Rotaract Club of American
National College
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