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    26Sep, 2023
    Muslim Aid’s Community Based Education Development Programme (CBEDP) – Phase-III

    The Community Based Education Development Programme of Muslim Aid – Phase-III was inaugurated on 22nd September at Kinniya Zonal Education Office’s auditorium. Through this intervention under the Education for All programme of Muslim Aid, 13 vulnerable schools in rural areas comprising over 6000 students will benefit in Kinniya Educational Zone. Muslim Aid also supported 5 schools in Phase-I & 13 schools Phase II in Trincomalee District.

    Muslim Aid’s educational development programme is cantered with the educational policy of the government of Sri Lanka and contributing to the Sustainable Development Goal -4 to ensure the Quality Education for all where it will contribute to renovate and reconstruct the building facilities while supporting the teaching and learning facilities including necessary capacity building to the stakeholders. It’s believed that the support will pave the way to build a society to face the contemporary challenges in the educational sector in the zone.

    The event was graced by Ms. Ahila Canagasooriyam (Provincial Director of Education – Eastern Province) as the Chief Guest while Mr. Nasoorkhan (Zonal Director of Education – Kinniya), Mr. A. C. Faizer Khan (Country Director – Muslim Aid Sri Lanka) participated as the Guest of Honours. Also, other stakeholders including government and non-government representatives, schools’ principals, community leaders, staff of Muslim Aid, and well-wishers participated in the event. As the especial occasion of the event, Muslim Aid handed over the token of appreciation to the retiring Provincial Director of Education Ms. Ahila Canagasooriyam in recognition of her invaluable contributions towards the advancement of education in Eastern Province of Sri Lanka.

    2Aug, 2023
    Muslim Aid Sri Lanka Host Combined Humanitarian Self-Capacity Assessment Workshop for Global Muslim Aid Offices

    The Global Humanitarian event was organized by Muslim Aid Sri Lanka in collaboration with Muslim Aid UK Headquarters. Delegates from the UK and Muslim Aid’s Country Offices including Myanmar, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sudan, Somalia and Sri Lanka participated in the event.

    The Director General of Disaster Management Centre Sri Lanka – Maj. Gen. (Retd) Sudantha Ranasinghe, Director General of National Secretariat for NGOs in Sri Lanka – Mr. Sanjeewa Wimalagunarathna, Goodwill Ambassador of Muslim Aid Sri Lanka & General Secretary of All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama – Ash-Sheikh Arkam Nooramith, Country Director of A-PAD Sri Lanka – Mr. Firzan Hashim, and representatives from Muslim Aid UK Mr. Samuel James Cook – Global Programmes Manager and Mr. Asif Shahab – Humanitarian Programmes Manager were the Special Guests of the event.

    The welcome note was presented by the Country Director of Muslim Aid Sri Lanka – Mr. Faizer Khan, who highlighted the achievements of Muslim Aid’s life-saving humanitarian and transformational development programmes in Sri Lanka.

    Keynote Speaker at the event, Maj. Gen. (Retd) Sudantha Ranasinghe praised Muslim Aid for organizing such a timely event and its contribution to humanitarian and development efforts in Sri Lanka. He elaborated on the DMC’s role in the country and how agencies could work together with the DMC in the areas of disaster resilience and emergency preparedness. The Director General also mentioned that Sri Lanka and other countries in the region could share their experiences, lessons learned and best practices to develop and replicate according to the country’s requirements.

    Mr. Sanjeewa Wimalagunarathna mentioned that the Secretariat is now working closely with NGOs to ensure they carry out programmes in a transparent and accountable manner. He also praised Muslim Aid for its continuous support in humanitarian and development programmes in the country and requested it to continue its activities for the betterment of vulnerable communities in the country. He emphasized the importance of the development of the primary education system in the country and how NGOs like Muslim Aid could contribute to develop such a system.

    Ash-Sheikh Arkam Nooramith in his speech elaborated how his relationship with Muslim Aid was built up. He explained how the humanitarian and community development programmes are linked to different faith perspectives. He also emphasized the importance of the transparency and accountability of humanitarian and development organizations.

    Mr. Firzan Hashim addressed the impact of climate change. He summarized ways to overcome climate change challenges through enhancing capacity on preparedness and building partnerships with the private sector for sustainable economic recovery and resilience.

    Mr. Samuel James Cook elaborated on the 33 year history of Muslim Aid and how it has evolved into a key global humanitarian and development actor. He explained how Muslim Aid plans to develop its humanitarian capacity to meet the increasingly complex challenges faced by the most vulnerable people in the world. Mr. Asif Shahab explained that the workshop will be instrumental for continuing MASL’s disaster response and preparedness programme, which is effective, timely and inclusive to strengthen disaster management in Sri Lanka.

    8Jun, 2023
    World Oceans Day

    World Ocean Day is a significant event celebrated on June 8th each year, highlighting the importance of our oceans and promoting the conservation. Muslim Aid Sri Lanka had undertaken beach cleaning activities in number of occations, which play a crucial role in preserving the health and vitality of our marine ecosystems. People from all walks of life gather for these activities, armed with gloves and bags, ready to tackle the litter that has accumulated on the shores. The beach cleaning efforts contribute to safeguarding the fragile balance of marine life by removing plastic waste, debris, and other pollutants.

    In addition to beach cleaning, World Ocean Day is also an occasion to raise awareness about the remarkable species that inhabit our oceans. One such fascinating creature is the fish, known for its exceptional taste and versatility in various cuisines. However, despite its popularity, the population of fish has faced significant challenges due to overfishing and habitat degradation. On this special day, we proud to express our support to educate people about sustainable fishing practices and the importance of protecting the habitats that sustain fishing populations.

    By connecting the dots between the human and ocean, we can recognize the interdependence of these two elements. A clean ocean not only provides a pristine environment for beachgoers but also supports the health and survival of marine species. When oceans are free from pollution and litter, they create a safe space for sea creatures to spawn, feed, and thrive. Additionally, a healthy fish population contributes to the overall balance of marine ecosystems, playing a vital role in the food chain and maintaining biodiversity.

    World Ocean Day serves as a reminder that our actions, no matter how small, can have a significant impact on the well-being of our oceans. By participating in beach cleaning initiatives and advocating for sustainable fishing practices, we can contribute to the preservation of the marine species. Let us unite on this day and every day to protect our oceans, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty and abundance they offer. Together, we can make a difference and create a sustainable future for our world’s oceans.

    22May, 2023
    School Based Participatory Education Development (SB- PED) intervention in Trincomalee

    One of Muslim Aid Sri Lanka’s thematic intervention areas is educational development. Under our School Based Participatory Education Development (SB- PED) intervention in Trincomalee, we engage all related stakeholders to achieve meaningful and sustainable change in the education sector.

    The project is in its 2nd phase, with Principals, Teachers, School Development Societies, Students, Parents, and Government authorities contributing to the overall goal of increasing access to, and quality of education.

    Recently, we implemented a capacity building programme for teachers, under the patronage of the Provincial Education Department and the Kinniya Zonal Education Department, to train teachers in core subject such as Mathematics, Science, and Languages.

    2May, 2023
    Active Citizens- Supporting Effective Dispute Resolution (SEDR) project was supported by the European Union (EU),

    Active Citizens- Supporting Effective Dispute Resolution (SEDR) project was supported by the European Union (EU), implemented through  British Council, Sri Lanka, partnered with Muslim Aid Sri Lanka (MASL). This project has sparked a positive change within society with various project activities being conducted over the years.

    Active Citizens focuses on social cohesion and actively  involves youth who are interested and passionate about peacebuilding and are determined to make a change in their community. The youth have been given grants to carry out Social Action Projects (SAPs) to resolve conflicts at the community level.

    One of the Social Action projects being carried out is “Green Field” by the youth of Mutur. This project has been implemented in Kattaiparichan, Santhosapuram in an attempt to ease tensions between the indigenous communities and youth residing in Chenaiyoor by renovating the playground currently owned by the Chenaiyoor youth into a common playground with the aim of promoting lasting peace and harmony among them. An awareness session on social cohesion and the importance of living in unity was carried out for the youth. A dialogue was also held to resolve community disputes with many prominent figure  were present.#ACTIVECITIZENS #SEDR #GREENFIELD     #MUTHUR #EMPOWERINGYOUTH #BRITISHCOUNCILSRILANKA #SEDRtogether  

    27Apr, 2023
    Active Citizens- Supporting Effective Dispute Resolution (SEDR)

    Active Citizens- Supporting Effective Dispute Resolution (SEDR) project was implemented by the European Union (EU) through British Council, Sri Lanka, partnered with Muslim Aid Sri Lanka (MASL). This project has sparked a positive change within society with various project activities being conducted over the years.

    Active Citizens focuses on social cohesion and peacebuilding and involves youth who are interested and passionate about peacebuilding and are determined to make a change in their community. The youth have been given grants to carry out Social Action Projects (SAPs) to resolve conflicts at the community level.

    One of the Social Action projects being carried out is “Towards a Change”, conducted by the youth in Samanthuraui, Ampara. This project strives to resolve the disputes within communities in Samanthurai and to evoke a sense of unity among the community members through the implementation of various activities.

    The youth are given training on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), awareness on creating and sustaining long term peace and unity within communities, holding discussions with communities to understand and identify their problems and propose feasible solutions.

    Today, a cultural program was organized by the youth where members from every community performed and showcased various acts that displayed their culture and traditions. This event brought all the communities together, united them and allowed them to embrace each other’s cultures, thereby causing a positive change in the community. 

    29Mar, 2023
    20 Fishermen were supported under Smart Village Development Program in Kuchchaveli Divisional Secretariat

    On the 23rd of March, Muslim Aid Sri Lanka (MASL) provided canoe, fishing nets and other equipment to 20 beneficiaries from Bilal Nagar, Satham Nagar and Pattikkuda, as part of its livelihood development scheme.

    The distribution of the livelihood equipment to the beneficiaries was held at Pattikkuda, with the participation of Village, Economic and Samurdhi Officers, and Staff of MASL.

    In his address to the gathering, the Village Officer highlighted the importance of the program and emphasized that Muslim Aid and the Divisional Secretariat will continue to monitor the precise utilization of the equipment provided to ensure maximum fulfilment of beneficiary satisfaction and project outcomes.

    The Model Village Development Project is one of Muslim Aid’s most innovative projects, aiming to mitigate the impact of the economic crisis by empowering communities through the development of livelihoods.

    21Feb, 2023
    Handing Over Ceremony of School Facilities in Kinniya

    Muslim Aid Sri Lanka organised a handing over ceremony of newly constructed latrine facility, and distribute furniture, bicycles, vouchers, school bags and stationary packs to the school and students at T/K/Kakkamunai GMMS. It was a part of the School Based Participatory Education Development Program carried out by Muslim Aid in selected schools in all three Educational Zones in Trincomalee District.

    The chief guest was Hon. H.E.M.W.G. Dissanayaka, the Eastern Provincial Secretary- Ministry of Education, Sports, Cultural Affairs, Preschool Education, Youth Affairs and Rehabilitation, and Ms. Akila Kanagasooriyam, Eastern Provincial Director of Education, Mr. A.C. Faizer Khan, Country Director – Muslim Aid Sri Lanka Office and Mr. A. Nasooharkhan, Kinniya Zonal Director of Education, participated as the Guest of Honours in this event. Further, Ms. Paola Reyes, MEAL Manager at Muslim Aid UK, and Ms. Charlotte Taylor, Country Programmes Officer at Muslim Aid UK took part as the Special Guests.

    The event was organized well and the guests were welcomed warmly by the Principal, Staff, Students and School Community. The function was presided over by the principal of the school, and all who addressed the function praised the work and assistance done by Muslim Aid in Trincomalee District. Mr. A. Nasooharkhan, pointed out the improvement observed in the selected schools in Kinniya Zone after the work of Muslim Aid. Charlotte Taylor, Country Programs Officer, Muslim Aid UK said that the Muslim Aid globally supports the community based education development programmes in replacing Rainbow Family programme which has been mainly one to one support to selected vulnerable and orphan students. Through the community based development programme as a holistic approach it involves various related stakeholders who are part of this process in order to make the intervention sustainable and successful.

    She also said it is great to see the inclusion of government authorities where their input and support is highly important. The Country Director of Muslim Aid Sri Lanka mentioned that it has been working in Sri Lanka since 2005 and one of the thematic sectors of Muslim Aid is educational development which is in line with the 4th SDGs of the UN. He also thanked all the stakeholders for their support and contribution to make this programme successful as well looking forward to continuing the others phases as well with the support of stakeholders. Ms. Ahila Canagasooriyam, Provincial Director of Education, Eastern Province thanked Muslim Aid on behalf of the Provincial Education for their successful functions in Trincomalee district and requested the school community to consider the work carried out by NGOs as their own and continue them actively till achieving targets.

    Finally Hon. H.E.M.W.G. Dissanayaka, the Secretary- Ministry of Education, Sports, Cultural Affairs, Preschool Education, Youth Affairs and Rehabilitation, Eastern Province praised Muslim Aid highly for different projects done by it in his address. And he thanked all the principals and the teachers in Trincomalee district for achieving great successes in G.C.E.(A/L) and (O/L) examinations in 2022. He expressed his hope to work with Muslim Aid in this district and province in future.

    School furniture, school garden, renovated IT Room and Washrooms were ceremonially handed over to the school and school-package and bicycles were given to students at this event.

    14Jan, 2023
    Muslim Aid has supported Poor & Vulnerable School Children by providing bicycles, stationary items, furniture, foot vouchers and also handed over the renovated and reconstructed school buildings.

    Under the Muslim Aid ‘s School Based Participatory Educational Development Programme 2022/2023, it has supported T/Kan/ Galamitiya Vidyalaya, T/Kin/ Buhari Muslim Maha Vidyalaya, T/kin/ Fathima Balika Maha Vidyalayam and T/ Barathipuram Parashathi Vidyalaya with bicycles, school stationary items, furniture, foot vouchers and also handed over the renovated and reconstructed school buildings to the students and the management of schools.

    Mr. PH Gamini Bandara , Deputy Director of Kantale Zone was the chief guest at T/Kan/ Galamitiya Vidyalaya while Mr. Nasoorkhan – Zonal Director of Education , Kinniya was at T/Kin/ Buhari Muslim Maha Vidyalaya and T/kin/ Fathima Balika Maha Vidyalaya and Mr. Sridaran – Zonal Director of Education – Trincomalee was the chief guest at the event at T/ Barathipuram Parashathi Vidyalaya.

    In all four events, the school principals, teachers, Muslim Aid staff , school development committee members and parents also participated. The chief guests and guests were welcomed by the students in all four schools. At this crucial economic crises in the country, Muslim Aid’s supports were highly appreciated and welcomed by the zonal directors of education, principals , teachers, parents and students. Muslim Aid has been operating in Sri Lanka since 2005, under number of thematic programme including education, economic empowerment, humanitarian response and health awareness.

    5Dec, 2022
    Muslim Aid supports Model School Gardening Project to encourage Self-cultivation under the Livelihood and Food Security Program.

    Muslim Aid continues its efforts to help the vulnerable and affected families in the country due to the current economic crises by supporting 5 schools in the Trincomalee district under the model school gardening project. MASL has been supporting vulnerable households in a number of districts in the country to encourage self-cultivation under the livelihood and food security program.

    Muslim Aid believes that Sri Lanka, as an agricultural-based country, should promote, encourage and inculcate youth involvement from a young age and provide the necessary subject knowledge and technical know-how to use mulching systems, sprinklers, drip irrigation systems, and greenhouses from the secondary schooling age itself, so that students will engage in cultivational activities which will motivate them to use in their homes.

    Under its livelihood and food security program, MASL supports capable but vulnerable beneficiaries in urban and rural areas to cultivate food for consumption purposes as well as to earn through selling their extra harvest. Muslim Aid also is implementing a community gardening project where community members will engage in community gardening in familiar but safe places and cultivate vegetation as needed.