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

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a globally recognized self-development program for youth aged 14 to 24. Established in 1956 by Prince Philip and Sir Kurt Hahn, the program operates in over 130 countries, including Sri Lanka. It focuses on empowering young people through four key pillars: Voluntary Service, Skills, Physical Recreation, and Adventurous Journey.

In Sri Lanka, the program is governed by the National Youth Services Council (NYSC). At Ananda College, Colombo, the program is thriving, with approximately 40 students currently enrolled.

The Gold Award Social Service Project

Recently, 11 students from Ananda College, who are pursuing the prestigious Gold Award, successfully completed a 5-day residential social service project. The project took place from January 26th to 30th at Bandaragama, Kamburugoda Primary School in the Horana zone.

The following improvements and activities were successfully implemented for the benefit of the students at Pamunugama Primary School:

•⁠ ⁠Library Renovation: Donated new bookshelves, books, and installed ceiling fans.

•⁠ ⁠Religious Site Maintenance: Renovated and improved the school’s shrine room (Budu Medura).

•⁠ ⁠Health & Wellness: Organized and conducted a dedicated health camp for students.

•⁠ ⁠Environmental Initiative: Established a fruit garden within the school premises.

•⁠ ⁠Leadership Training: Conducted a leadership development workshop and awarded certificates to participants.

•⁠ ⁠Infrastructure Support: Provided and installed necessary signboards across the school.

•⁠ ⁠Nutrition: Provided healthy and nutritious meals to the schoolchildren.

•⁠ Donation of a First Aid Box with essential medicines

Acknowledgements

This project was carried out under the guidance of the National Youth Services Council officials, including National Coordinator Mr. Ramanan Selvanathan and Youth Services Officer Mr. Neil Kathriarachchi.

We extend our 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 recognition goes to the teachers-in-charge of the Edinburgh Award Unit, Mrs. Anuradha Weerakoon, as well as the 11 participating students and their parents, whose dedication and hard work made this project a resounding success.