BACK TO SCHOOL 2026

Project Background

Education is a fundamental right and a key factor in breaking the cycle of poverty. However, due to the continuing economic challenges in Sri Lanka, many vulnerable families struggle to provide the necessary school materials for their children. Rising costs of living and reduced household income have placed additional pressure on parents, often forcing them to choose between basic needs and
educational expenses.

Muslim Aid Sri Lanka (MASL) has continuously supported vulnerable communities across the island through various education assistance initiatives. The Back-to-School project is one such annual intervention designed to ensure that children from underprivileged families are equipped to begin the new school year with happiness, confidence and dignity.

Problem Statement

A significant number of children in economically affected families face barriers to access quality education due to the lack of essential school supplies. Many begin the school term without adequate stationeries, bags, or footwear, leading to lack of motivation, absenteeism, and in some cases, schooldropouts.

The situation is particularly concerning among low-income families, women-headed households, and those with multiple dependents. The inability to afford basic educational items undermines children’slearning outcomes and perpetuates cycles of poverty and social inequality.

Project Objectives

To support vulnerable children across selected districts to continue their education by providing essential school packs.

Reducing the financial burden on struggling families during the new school term.
To promote equitable access to education among children from low-income backgrounds.
To motivate students to attend school regularly and participate actively in learning.

Project Beneficiaries

The project aims to support 5,000 vulnerable children including orphans, children from low-income families, women-headed households, children with special needs, and children from large families with many dependents often struggling to afford basic educational materials needed for the new school year across the following districts:

Colombo
Mannar
Anuradhapura
Trincomalee

Project Implementation

The project will be implemented by MASL in December 2025 through the following steps:

Beneficiary Identification: Selection of eligible children through field assessments and coordination with local authorities, schools, and community-based organizations.
Procurement: Purchase of school supplies in accordance with the approved quality standards, competitive market price and standard specifications.
Packing and Labeling: Systematically organizing and labeling the school packs according to verified beneficiary lists.
Distribution: Conducting organized handover events and school-based distributions, ensuring inclusivity and transparency.
Documentation and Reporting: Collection of beneficiary photos, feedback, and beneficiary stories to be included in donor reports.

Project Outcomes

• Vulnerable children have received complete school packs equipped with learning materials.
• Reduced financial burden on low-income families struggling with the cost of education.
• Improved school attendance, participation, and motivation among beneficiary children.
• Enhanced community confidence on continued commitment to educational empowerment.
• Built educated community with balanced approach among communities.

Project Visibility

In line with the donor’s agreement, donor logos will be displayed on the school packs and project banners. Visibility materials will be placed at distribution sites during implementation and handover ceremonies. Photographs will be captured and shared on media platforms upon donor’s request.

Project Conclusion

The Back-to-School initiative aims to ensure that 5,000 vulnerable children start their new academic year with dignity, confidence, and the tools they need to succeed. Through the generosity of donors, this initiative will not only ease the financial burden on struggling parents but also nurture the dreams and potential of young learners — shaping a more hopeful and equitable future for all.