Support education throughout COVID-19 in Sri Lanka

Dear Supporter,

Thank you for your generosity, kindness and support towards Street Child’s home-based learning initiative in the North and East of Sri Lanka. We are pleased to share an update on project progress.

Sri Lanka is currently experiencing a third wave in COVID-19 cases with the daily rate of infection higher than previously recorded figures. As of May 1^st 2021, the current average has exceeded 1,300 new cases which has resulted in over 13,000 active cases. The health ministry has issued a revised alert level 3 COVID-19 restriction list in operation with immediate effect until further notice. Nationwide school closures have been announced for the third time in a span of one year, continuing to threaten the long-term prospects of children in marginalised communities.

This project was designed to overcome the challenges that may arise due to the uncertainty of COVID-19 in the country. The learning support package of interactive learning materials that were distributed to 874 children from remote, rural communities of North and East Sri Lanka through our local partners have continued to support student’s English education through periods of inconsistent schooling.

105 teachers have received training for inclusive and interactive learning thus far including use of digital learning resources in the classroom. During a period of 3 months when schools conducted classes on a limited capacity, the skills learnt through these training sessions have been useful upon the reopening of schools. Teachers have shown appreciation towards such trainings and have requested for future comprehensive skills training in interactive learning. 

With the uncertainty of COVID-19 and lack of indication of when students will be able to return to normal schooling, our home-based learning intervention will continue to play a vital role as students navigate their education in the upcoming weeks and months. Street Child hope to continue expanding this program to reach more students and encourage a continuation of learning throughout the challenges faced amid the pandemic. Street Child thank you for your ongoing support. We look forward to sharing further progress with you soon.