The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award: Ananda College Social Service Project

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a globally recognized youth development programme designed for young people aged 14 to 24. Established in 1956 by His Royal Highness Prince Philip and educationalist Sir Kurt Hahn, the programme operates in over 130 countries, including Sri Lanka, and focuses on developing well-rounded individuals through four key pillars: Voluntary Service, Skills, Physical Recreation, and the Adventurous Journey. In Sri Lanka, the Award is administered by the National Youth Services Council (NYSC), and at Ananda College, Colombo, the programme continues to thrive with approximately 40 students actively engaged in this prestigious international initiative.

As part of the requirements for the Gold Award, 12 students from Ananda College successfully completed a five-day residential social service project from 26th to 30th January at Pamunugama Primary School in the Maharagama Educational Zone. During this project, the students carried out a series of impactful activities for the benefit of the school community, including renovating the library with new bookshelves, books, and ceiling fans, improving the school’s shrine room (Budu Medura), organizing a health camp for students, establishing a fruit garden within the school premises, conducting a leadership development workshop with certificates awarded to participants, installing essential signboards across the school, and providing healthy and nutritious meals to the schoolchildren.

This social service project was carried out under the guidance of officials from the National Youth Services Council, including National Coordinator Ms. Sujatha Alahakoon, Lead Coordinator Mr. A. M. K. Seneviratne, and Youth Services Officer Mr. Nil Kumarasinghe. The college extends its sincere gratitude to the Principal of Ananda College, Mr. D. M. L. P. Dissanayake, and the Deputy Principal (Sports & Co-curricular), Mr. Randika Perera, for their invaluable leadership and support. Special appreciation is also extended to the teachers-in-charge of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Unit, Mrs. Anuradha Jayasinghe and Mrs. Rukmali Edirisinghe, as well as the participating students and their parents, whose dedication and commitment ensured the success of this meaningful social service initiative.