Rotary clubs give out 500 ICT scholarships to Sri Lankan youth

COLOMBO, SRI LANKA — A total of 500 ICT scholarships worth Rs2 billion (US$5.46 million) were given to Sri Lankan youth to help jump-start the country’s economy and ICT industry. 

Given by two Rotary clubs from Sri Lanka and the Philippines, an awarding ceremony was held with the participation of Rotary International President Jennifer Jones, who is currently on an official visit to Sri Lanka. 

Sri Lanka’s Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe, National Youth Services Council Chairman Dr. Thiran De Silva, and several other dignitaries also attended the event.

In her speech, Jones stated that “Education is a portal into the future.” She added that the scholarships are a “wonderful opportunity” given to Sri Lankan youth. 

Therefore, Jones advised the beneficiaries to use the scholarship and their digital knowledge to their benefit. “Use it to dream about what you can create, what you can innovate, and how you can change the world through your education.”

Meanwhile, Project Chairman for Rotary Jump Start Sri Lanka Dr. Rohantha Athukorala, encouraged the scholarship awardees to complete their studies and reminded them of their responsibility to the country.

“Please make sure that you do not drop out of this program because if you drop out, you are letting down Sri Lanka, you are letting down the embassy.”

He also thanked all the groups and dignitaries — from both Sri Lanka and the Philippines — who made the event and the 500 scholarships possible.

The beneficiaries will be sent to a campus in Cebu, Philippines.