Every day, countless students face obstacles, but few turn those obstacles into stepping stones as effectively as the students at Pepiliyana Sunethra Maha Devi Vidyalaya. Despite facing limited resources, these young learners are making the most of their educational opportunities. Their story has inspired many, including 99x, a leading global product engineering company.
In 2012, Sunethra Maha Devi Vidyalaya was struggling with low student numbers and was on the verge of closure, but the spirit of its students and their eagerness to learn caught the attention of 99x, which has made a significant impact on the school’s future since then.
99x stepped in with a vision, initially focusing on the school’s immediate needs by donating books, cleaning, and renovating the garden, library, and playground. One of the key milestones was establishing a fully equipped IT lab, providing the students with essential access to technology and digital education. 99x not only donated the equipment but also sponsored a teacher for regular computer lessons. Additionally, 99x employees volunteered their time to teach computing basics, giving the students valuable skills for their future.
The students eagerly embraced every opportunity to grow, and the introduction of chess lessons by 99x, first taught by volunteers and later by a professional teacher, helped them develop critical thinking and strategic skills. They tackled this new challenge with the same excitement they showed in the classroom.
The student’s journey of transformation also drew support from 99x’s clients. BUS AS Norway, a longstanding customer, sponsored a new play area, providing a safe space for the students to play and grow. Employees from BUS spent time interacting with the children, further strengthening community bonds and supporting the students’ development.
Celebrations and special occasions at Sunethra Maha Devi Vidyalaya have become vibrant and inclusive, with events like Christmas and Avurudu seeing employees and interns from 99x joining the festivities, making the students feel valued and cherished. These moments of joy have become a symbol of the support and care surrounding the students.
Recognising the importance of holistic development, 99x has organised health camps, including eye clinics and general health check-ups, ensuring the students’ well-being. City tours in Colombo have also been arranged, offering the students enriching experiences outside the classroom, from visiting museums to exploring parks.
Kavinda Senarathne, co-lead of the Sustainability team 99x, highlighted the company’s commitment to supporting the students. “Our long-term plans include renovating the primary school, refurbishing the computer lab, and repairing the main hall roof. We also engage interns to conduct IT practical sessions, organise annual shramadana events, and hold monthly educational sessions in English, Mathematics, and IT. These initiatives reflect our dedication to providing a brighter future for these students.”
As Sunethra Maha Devi Vidyalaya looks towards the future, it is the students who stand as the true heroes of this journey. Their resilience and determination have transformed their school into a place of learning and growth. The story of these young learners is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when opportunity meets an unyielding spirit, and it shows that with courage and the right support, even the most daunting challenges can be transformed into success.
