Reconstructing Schools for Sri Lankan Youth

When the tsunami hit the coast of Sri Lanka, not only did it kill thousands of people, wash homes out to sea, and destroy fragile local economies, it also destroyed dozens of schools. Yet these educational facilities play an invaluable roll in redeveloping disaster-stricken communities and preparing Sri Lanka’s youth for the long process of recovery ahead.

Since the tsunami, Relief International has renovated several schools by securing new walls, building new roofs, upgrading sanitation services, weatherproofing the structures, and furnishing them with school supplies, desk and chalkboards.

To date, Relief International has successfully reconstructed or built from scratch 8 schools in Pottuvil and Tirrukkovil. Throughout the process of renovation and construction, Relief International sought input and consulted with over 400 students, ranging from ages 5 – 18.

Sanitation and access to water supply were also taken into consideration from the onset of the construction process, and incorporated into the preliminary infrastructural plans. The 8 schools so far constructed boast access to safe drinking water and toilet facilities – both considered luxury features not available in many Sri Lankan schools. The young communities in Tirrukkovil and Pottuvil have thus been able to return to an educational atmosphere in a sanitary and safe environment.

Currently, Relief International is expanding and refurbishing schools in the Ampara district of Sri Lanka. Expansions allow schools to accommodate two additional classrooms (increasing the number of classrooms from 6 to 8) and have increased the total floor area by over 50%. Furthermore, schools originally built under simple plastic roofs, which protect from the sun but not the rain, are now being upgraded to ensure full weatherproofing.