last update 2005.2.26

Preschool projects

There are 3 preschools directly connected with SVS.

Surangani preschool (Peliyagoda)

This preschool is located in a neighborhood of Greater Colombo. When support started in 1987 (photo-left) before the formal establishment of SVS, there were many malnourished children in this preschool. The preschool provided powdered milk everyday for snack time and porridge in the morning. In 1992 the building was no longer an able to fix, there for SVS support to completely renewal the classroom (photo-right). However, the area has been developing step by step in many ways. Parents have more stable jobs, and they are able to pay monthly school fees; the number of malnourished children around the preschool has dramatically been reduced; and, children’s environment has become more stable than before.

Nevertheless, problems, including alcoholism and drug addiction, still exist in the area. SVS provides management and technical support for this preschool. The school has energetic teachers who willingly share their experiences in supporting other preschools in Sri Lanka. We have high expectations regarding the role of this preschool as a center for a future preschool training program.

Hanagumi preschool (Godakawela)

There were no preschools in this area. In 1994 August, SVS received a request from the village to build a preschool for their children. This project began by meeting with village people, selecting a research assistant, conducting research interviews, and devising an evaluation process. The two selected teachers were provided with training through the SVS preschool in Peliyagoda. Currently 25 children attend this preschool.

The name of the school “Hanagumi (flower group)” came from the Asia University (Tokyo) Jazz dance team which held a concert for the Sri Lanka preschool to raise funds for the building. When two of the students and their instructor visited the preschool just before the opening, the village people said that the sound of “Hanagumi” was nice; therefore, they selected it as the name for the preschool.

Priyashi preschool (Kirindiwela)

This preschool is located in the hills. When SVS started to support this area, we were not sure if there were children there or not; however, the school has enrolled an average of 15 children every year. The teacher, Priyanganie, is one of the former Peliyagoda preschool teachers.

The small size is good for both the children and teacher, therefore, the parents highly appreciate the well organized education. However, the limited income generated by the school means that no assistant teacher can be hired which may lead to problems if Priyanganie gets sick. The school opened in January 1997.