This week, we are pleased to announce a significant development in our ongoing efforts to support rural communities: the relocation of one of our Village Heartbeat Empowerment Centres from Puthiyanagar to Vavuniya. This strategic move was necessitated by the decline in the number of beneficiaries in Puthiyanagar, where we were unable to sustain the same level of impact as we had hoped. However, with the centre’s new home in Vavuniya, we are excited to reach a wider audience and provide even greater support to those in need.
The Village Heartbeat Empowerment Centre in Vavuniya has already made a strong start, with 225 students registered and actively participating in our programmes. In addition to these registered students, the centre proudly boasts 501-course beneficiaries, a testament to the broad reach and effectiveness of our educational and vocational training initiatives. Through this centre, we can now benefit 13 villages, extending our mission of empowering rural communities to a significantly larger population.
Our educational courses cover primary education, ensuring that children in these communities have access to quality schooling from a young age. In addition to primary education, we offer computer training, which is vital in today’s digital world. This training provides students with the essential skills needed to succeed in a technology-driven society, opening doors to numerous opportunities in the future free of charge to all who are interested.
Language education is another key component of our programme, with courses in both English and Sinhala available. Mastery of these languages enhances communication skills and increases employability, giving individuals a better chance of securing jobs requiring proficiency in one or both languages. Our curriculum also includes mathematics and science courses, fundamental to academic and professional success. By providing a strong foundation in these areas, we help prepare students for a wide range of future careers, particularly in fields where these skills are in high demand.
Vocational training is another pillar of our centre’s offerings. The beauty culture course has been particularly popular, equipping participants with the skills needed to start their businesses or secure employment in the beauty industry. Similarly, our dressmaking course provides practical skills that can be immediately applied to generate income, through self-employment or work with local businesses. Both of these courses are designed to improve technical skills and foster confidence and independence, empowering participants to take control of their economic futures.
In addition to these core educational and vocational offerings, the Vavuniya Centre also hosts a variety of activities aimed at the holistic development of individuals and the community as a whole. Our STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Education programme encourages creative and critical thinking, helping students to develop a well-rounded skill set. Planetary Health education is another important aspect of our work, teaching students about environmental stewardship and the importance of sustainable living practices.
We also place a strong emphasis on instilling good values in children through our Children’s Good Values Initiatives. These activities are designed to nurture a sense of responsibility, empathy, and community-mindedness from a young age. Additionally, our Goodness Agricultural Initiatives provide training in sustainable farming practices, helping to secure food sources and promote self-sufficiency within the community. Finally, our Good Care for Elders programme ensures that the older generation is not forgotten, offering them the care and respect they deserve in their later years.
The relocation to Vavuniya marks a new chapter for our centre, one that we believe will be filled with growth, learning, and positive change. We are committed to continuing our work in this vibrant community, offering support and opportunities to all who seek them. As we settle into our new home, we look forward to making a lasting impact in the lives of those we serve, helping them to build a brighter future for themselves and their families.
