Location: CP/MT/Nandhana Vidyalaya, Udasgiriya, Central Province

The serene village of Udasgiriya, nestled in Sri Lanka’s Central Province, recently hosted a remarkable event that united students, teachers, and community leaders in a shared mission to promote sustainable agriculture. Nandhana Vidyalaya, a small government school serving 121 students, became the venue for the 30th “Kapruka From School” program, part of the ongoing initiative led by the Good Hands Initiative.

This project was a result of the strong partnership between local authorities, including the Divisional Secretariat of Yatawaththa and the Child Protection Authority, along with the dedicated efforts of school leadership, led by Principal Mr. I.M.G. Gamini Jayasundara. The initiative was designed to empower rural communities by introducing school-based agricultural programs, with a focus on sustainable practices, particularly in coconut cultivation.

The groundwork for the event was laid through preliminary discussions with key officials such as Mrs. H.M.M.C.P. Hindagoda (Divisional Secretariat, Yatawaththa) and Mr. Buddhika Kalpa (Child Protection Authority), ensuring a strong collaborative approach. The team’s efforts were aimed at addressing the educational and agricultural development needs of this economically challenged region.

On September final week, 2024, approximately 80 students from Grades 6 to 9 eagerly participated in the program. The day began with a formal welcome and featured several distinguished speakers, including Mr. Lahiru K Bandara, Mrs. Hindagoda and Mr. Kalpa, who delivered insightful presentations on the importance of sustainable agricultural practices. The discussions emphasized coconut cultivation as a key element in driving environmental and economic sustainability for the community.

Interactive sessions allowed students to engage in meaningful conversations about the challenges and opportunities in modern agriculture. These discussions, complemented by practical workshops, helped students gain hands-on experience. Under the guidance of teachers and GHI experts, students actively participated in preparing coconut nurseries and planting coconut pits, learning the essential steps involved in starting their own sustainable agricultural projects.

To conclude the event, students were awarded certificates, and the school community was provided with coconut seedlings and school supplies. These gifts symbolized the shared commitment to nurturing both educational and agricultural growth within the region.

This 30th installment of the Kapruka From School program stands as a testament to the collective effort of school authorities, government officials, and the local community to foster sustainable agricultural practices and environmental stewardship among Sri Lanka’s rural youth.