Athula Dassana Buddhist Community Centre’s Annual Scholarship Programme
Yearly Scholarship Programme
The Athula Dassana Buddhist Community Centre proudly hosts its yearly scholarship programme aimed at empowering underprivileged students across all provinces of Sri Lanka. Established in 2014 with just 36 students and inspired by the vision of the Chief Sangha of Great Britain, Ven. Wanduramba Kassapa Thera, the initiative has now supported the education of over 100 children from Year 1 to Year 13, fostering a brighter future for Sri Lanka’s youth.
Empowering Diverse Students
This inclusive programme welcomes students from diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds, including Buddhist, Hindu, and Catholic communities. Scholarships are awarded based on rigorous selection criteria, identifying gifted students and providing them with the tools to achieve their full potential. The programme also emphasizes extracurricular activities and the development of religious knowledge, shaping recipients into well-rounded, responsible members of society.
Comprehensive Educational Support
Each scholarship is tailored to meet the individual needs of the students, ensuring they receive essentials such as:
- School uniforms, shoes, and socks
- Stationery, books, dictionaries, and school bags
- Lunch boxes, water bottles, and raincoats
Students achieving 9 A’s in their O-level examinations are further rewarded with a monthly stipend of 10,000 rupees to fund A-level tuition, as well as a laptop to support their studies. University entrants also receive laptops, motivating students to aim high academically.
Community Funded Initiative
The programme relies on the generosity of donors, with contributions as small as £7 per month per student making a profound impact. Additional funds are raised through charity events in England, ensuring the continued success of this transformative initiative.
Annual Event and Celebration
The year’s highlight is the annual scholarship event, held at the auditorium of D.S. Senanayaka College, Colombo 07. Before the ceremony, students tour Colombo’s iconic landmarks, providing a mix of education and enjoyment for many who have never explored the capital city. The event also serves as a platform for artistically talented students to showcase their skills, adding a vibrant and creative touch to the celebration.
By supporting the Athula Dassana Buddhist Community Centre’s scholarship programme, donors play an invaluable role in shaping the future of Sri Lanka’s next generation.
