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Kottagama: Opening Ceremony

With funding from Sibford School, UK this project provides much needed facilities to this poor school in the remote dry zone.

Almost everyone in Kottagama joined the teachers and students at the school for the opening ceremony to mark the successful completion of this Aid Sri Lanka project.

Greeted by a ceremonial line of applause, Claire de Boursac, R M W Kumari (dept of Education) and Suranga Vckerasinghe arrived at the school. Welcomed by a young student, Claire cut the ribbon and the classrooms were officially open. There was much excitement as the children entered the new room and took their places for their first lessons. “it’s beautiful, I love to learn here” said one young boy.

Later, a special assembly was held. The Principal A H M Mutumanike thanked Aid Sri Lanka for choosing their school for this project, recalling the numerous difficulties they face, making it one of the most needy schools in the district. She also paid tribute to Principal D M Ameresinghe who passed away unexpectedly just weeks before the project was completed.

Parents spoke of their joy and their gratitude and an older student talked of the difference the works have made to them, how much pleasure they are getting from the improved facilities and how much better they can learn without the distractions in the makeshift classrooms.

The pupils and teachers at Sibford School are thanked by everyone for their efforts in raising the money and Claire thanks the people of Kottagama for their very important role in the project. When a community project like this one is successful credit must go to the members of the community. She tells the children that when they are enjoying the new facilities they can remember that it is the love and hard work of their parents which has created them and when the villagers pass the school they should be very proud of their achievement.

In true Sri Lankan style Claire’s words are not really taken on board and Aid Sri Lanka and Sibford school are attributed all the credit. However, all parties agree that the results are fantastic, it has been a great project and close relations and friendships have been made and will continue.

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