The development of IT skills is becoming an important asset for Sri Lankans of all ages. Computer literacy not only increases opportunities for young school leavers looking for employment or applying to university, it is also instrumental in expanding income generating opportunities for adults.

Students with instructor at Unatwatuna computer centre

With the Tsunami destroying or damaging established communication/IT centres in the country’s south, Sewalanka Foundation has developed an IT program funded by Japanese-based NGO, Peaceboat.

Focusing on Tsunami-affected communities, the program consists of three communication centres established in or near temporary shelter sites in Galle District and one centre in Ampara District. The centres provide free IT training and practical application opportunities through courses delivered by experienced trainers. The four sites chosen for an initial two-year program period are Unawatuna and Ahangama in Habaraduwa DS Division, Kahawa in Hikkaduwa GS Division and Ullai in Pottuvil DS Division.

Officially opened in October 2005, the sites are equipped with computers and printers and are staffed by trained volunteers from the communities in which the centres are located.

The computer centres currently offer up to three courses taught to a standard curriculum developed and monitored by an experienced Sewalanka IT Coordinator. There is a course run for young children (6-12 years), a course for youth and young adults (12-20 years) and an open course for adults and those who have completed the young people’s course.

A student practices her typing skills at the Ahangama centre

Over 300 students are currently undertaking courses in the centres. Course lengths vary between six and nine months depending on the centre and the course. The courses predominantly focus on familiarising users with basic functions in Microsoft Windows and in the later courses, developing skills in the use of Microsoft Office programs, graphic design programs and internet and email facilities. Permanent locations are currently being sought to develop long term information and knowledge centres. The computer centres.

will serve as the foundation for a broader-based program which will include educational books and games with the aim of making linkages with employment services such as CV preparation, business plan services and job identification.

Based on the overwhelming success of the current sites, Sewalanka has received funding for an additional four new centres; two in the western district (Kalutara and Moratuwa) and two in the south (Matara and Tangalle).

>> For more information, contact:
Mr Ajith Tennakoon, Regional Coordinator, South on 091 223 344

In additional to the Peaceboat centres, Sewalanka Foundation has completed a three-month computer training program in Tangalle. The centre, funded through Concern, catered to 50 students between the ages of 16 and 22. The three month course was run by an experienced trainer employed by Sewalanka, with students given access to four computers and one printer. Ongoing funding is currently being sought.