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EDUCATION

Bhikkhu Training

The Sri Bodhiraja Foundation places special emphasis on the education and training of young monks or Bhikkhus. At present, there are 50 monks at the Bhikkhu Training Centre. In line with the Foundation’s mission, the programme not only to impart knowledge of Dhamma and inculcate strict discipline but also to orientate them towards serving the community according to Buddhist monastic guidelines.

Dhamma Education

More than 2000 students attend the classes conducted by the Dhamma School every weekend. The Foundation also runs four affiliated schools in nearby villages.

Scholarship Programmes

The scholarship programme provides opportunities for students from low-income families with financial difficulties to continue their education. Besides a monthly allowance, the Foundation also provides guidance to the students' families in leading moral and sustainable lives. The Foundation’s scholarship programme started with 10 students guided by the NESEC Foundation of Kadawata. It hopes to offer up to 32 scholarships. The success of the programme owes much to the support and assistance given by well wishers from Singapore and Germany.

Pre-School Programme

In a rural village like Embilipitiya, an organised pre-school programme is a dream for many children. The Bodhiraja Kindergarten has made this dream come true for more than 80 children. With the help of the United Nation’s Development Programme (UNDP), three other day-care centers have also been established. To date, the Sri Bodhiraja Foundation has helped to set up more than 10 kindergartens and continues their maintenance and support.

Home-based Child Development Programme

According to a recent survey only 20% of the children have access to preschool facilities in the Embilipitiya area. With the assistance of UNICEF and the Sri Lanka Social Service School, and the support of some 100 trained volunteers, the Sri Bodhiraja Foundation has set up a Home-based Child Development Programme for more than 1000 pre-school children.

Leadership Training Programme

The Foundation conducts regular workshops on leadership training for voluntary organisations. During these sessions, the Daham School teachers and several other employees of the area impart their knowledge and specific skills in relevant areas. Through this programme, the Foundation aims to empower the smaller organisations to function independently and effectively.