The annual scholarship programme of the Athula Dassana multi-cultural Buddhist Community Centre was held last Sunday at the D. S. Senanayake College, bringing hope and opportunity to over 100 underprivileged students.
Chief Sangha Prelate to Great Britain and Head Monk of the Athula Dassana Centre in Heathrow Ven. Wanduramba Kassapa Thera shared the journey of the scholarship programme, which began in 2014 with just 30 children. The initiative has grown steadily, supporting over 100 students this year, even continuing its mission during the challenging times of the COVID pandemic.
“Our objective is to provide long-term support,” explained Ven. Kassapa Thera. “Once we select a student, we continue offering the scholarship until they complete their G.C.E Advanced Level Examination.”
The programme’s success lies in its focus on both academic potential and moral development. Selection criteria prioritize academic inclination, and students are encouraged to attend Dhamma School on Sundays to cultivate ethical values and social responsibility.
The scholarship provides comprehensive support, encompassing school uniforms, shoes, socks, bags, stationery, raincoats, umbrellas, water bottles, lunch boxes and even books – based on the students’ individual needs.
Students achieving 9 A’s in their G.C.E Ordinary Level Exam receive a laptop. Support extends to extracurricular activities as well, with assistance provided to students excelling in areas like music, dance and art.
The programme’s funding comes from the dedication of devotees in England, who contribute £5 per month per student. Fundraising events held in England further bolster the initiative.
Maleesha Parami, a scholarship recipient from Dehiattakandiya, expressed her gratitude. “This scholarship is a lifesaver for underprivileged students like me,” she shared. “My mother passed away from a cancer and my father is a herdsman. This support is invaluable as I prepare for my Advanced Level Examinations in 2026. It is very difficult for us to supply our basic needs and the inflation has affected us very badly. My father is struggling to provide us with at least two meals per day. Thus, the scholarship is a lifesaver because we cannot even think of buying books”.
Rasika Shiromi, mother of another scholarship recipient, echoed the impact on her family. “My daughter scored 9 A’s in her Ordinary Level Exams, thanks to the Athula Dassana programme,” she said. “We live in a rented house, and affording basic necessities, let alone education, is a constant struggle. This scholarship has made a world of difference.”
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