“Children are the world’s most valuable resource and its best hope for the future.”
– John F. Kennedy.
With this belief at its core, the Rotaract Club of the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo launched the community service project Akhankara in 2016. Since its inception, the project has continued to thrive, guiding and mentoring countless students on their academic and personal development journeys.
Akhankara was conducted at Illukovita Kanishta Vidyalaya, aimed specifically at empowering G.C.E. Ordinary Level students by providing them with supplementary academic support as they prepared for their examination. Thanks to the enthusiastic guidance and consistent encouragement of the principal, the project was completed successfully once again, making a lasting impact on all who participated.
The initial phase focused on enhancing students’ academic performance, with special attention given to Mathematics, Science, and English. Volunteers worked closely with students to strengthen their foundational knowledge and improve their exam readiness. A comprehensive series of revision seminars followed, designed to help students consolidate their learning and clarify any doubts ahead of the Ordinary Level examination. The final phase of Akhankara was dedicated to future guidance and leadership development program. Students engaged in activities that encouraged them to identify their dreams and take meaningful steps toward achieving them. This phase also included interactive games to enhance leadership and teamwork skills in an enjoyable, engaging manner. Throughout the project, students also participated in collaborative initiatives such as Englora, a program aimed at elevating their English language proficiency and confidence in communication.
Every weekend, a group of dedicated volunteers from the university embarked on an early morning journey to Illukovita Kanishta Vidyalaya, traveling by bus through scenic rural landscapes to reach the school. Though the commute was long and often physically tiring, the warm smiles and eager faces that greeted us made every mile worth it. These shared journeys not only deepened the bond among volunteers but also strengthened our sense of purpose as we anticipated each meaningful day of service.
Upon arrival, we worked closely with students to support them in their studies. The students displayed remarkable curiosity, enthusiasm, and dedication, particularly regarding university life and future opportunities. Many expressed a strong desire to excel in their examinations and pursue higher education. For us as volunteers, it was deeply fulfilling and soul-nourishing to share our experiences and mentor the next generation. Watching the students grow in confidence and ambition was a testament to the power of consistent encouragement and educational support.
Despite its many successes, the project was not without challenges. One significant difficulty was the variation in learning levels among the students. While some were quick to grasp new concepts, others required more time and individualized support. Additionally, maintaining discipline while ensuring sessions remained enjoyable required patience and flexibility. These experiences taught us valuable life skills, including empathy, adaptability, and effective communication. Overcoming these challenges as a team strengthened our ability to work collaboratively and responsibly.
Personally, this project enhanced my communicationskills, taught me how to handle responsibility, and underscored the value of collaborative teamwork. Above all, it offered a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment by contributing meaningfully to the community. It also deepened my appreciation for the dedication and resilience of educators and reaffirmed the transformative power of mentorship.
Akhankara is more than a community service initiative—it is a journey of learning, connection, and giving. It fosters personal growth while positively influencing the lives of young students. I wholeheartedly encourage others to get involved in this initiative in the years to come. It is never too late to begin, and the impact; both personal and communal can be truly life-changing.
By: Rtr. Sethumi Dimanthi
Image Credit: Rtr. Oshini Jayathunga
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