Aid Sri Lanka Foundation

Latest News

Friday 12 May 2006

From: Claire de Boursac

Received by: Email.

Samanala School: Repaired, Repainted, Re-opened

To stand in the newly painted hall of Samanala school it is hard to believe that just under a month ago the room was an unpleasant, badly damaged and shabby place. The children, parents and teachers were all delighted and at this weeks opening ceremony.

The repairs to the roof have removed the danger of falling tiles and rainwater puddles. The new doors have added security to the building and the new cement floor, painted and polished is a vast improvement on the old, hole-ridden grey cement. The kitchen has been re-modelled and the new toilet installed. As well as the practical improvements the new paint has transformed the dank hall in to a light and welcoming room.

The local carpenter, who’s son attends the school, did a fantastic job on the furniture producing high quality chairs and desks which will last for a long time.

Local Government members, educational experts and the village headman all spoke of how this community does not usually get noticed and, with its poverty, struggles. The teacher was almost in tears and the children were very excited, finding it hard to sit still on their new chairs. They sang a special song, composed for the ceremony.

The speed and enthusiasm with which the villagers have undertaken this work has been tremendous and every site visit filled with laughter and wide smiles. They clearly enjoyed being able to improve things for the village and will certainly enjoy the new building.

We will of course continue to visit this community and report on the progress.

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Ceremonial oil lamp

Ceremonial oil lamp

Children and parents gather

Children and parents gather

Reapaired and repainted

Reapaired and repainted

Special song for the ceremony

Special song for the ceremony

Please click the above images to view them in full size.