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Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.

For three months, the classrooms of Thelangapatha Sri Ratnapala Vidyalaya were filled with energy as the young students eagerly embarked on an exciting journey of learning English. Organized in collaboration with several Rotaract Clubs in the country, EduBridge is an English course that aims to improve English language skills among elementary school students while providing a fun learning experience. The project was well planned and implemented with a mission, and achieved the expected results at the end of the project.

The importance of learning English reaches its peak in modern times. However, several reasons such as lack of resources, lack of exposure, and stigma about the language become obstacles in learning English for ESL (English as a Second Language) students. The main aim of the EduBridge project is to impact improving the English language skills of the younger generation to pave a better path for their future. Kelaniya University Rotaract Club joined hands with Rotaract Alumni Club, Sri Jayawardenepura University Rotaract Club, Colombo University School of Computing Rotaract Club, and Informatics and Institute of Technology Rotaract Club to create lasting relationships of positive impact through EduBridge. This English course is held for grade 3 and 4 elementary school students at Thelangapatha Sri Ratnapala Vidyalaya, Wattala. This project was implemented for three months and consisted of three stages: implementation of a three-month English course, a book donation program, and a talent show.

Learning English is a journey, not a destination. Every word learned is one step closer to new opportunities.

It’s great to know that project expectations can be achieved in all three phases of the project. The first phase of EduBridge consists of 13 sessions. Custom designed lesson plans ensure active engagement, going a long way in improving students’ listening, writing, reading and speaking skills. The lessons consist of interactive games, role plays and many more interesting and fun activities. Moreover, fear of language and other linguistic prejudices are overcome by the students themselves, which is one of EduBridge’s greatest achievements. The students were so eager and eager to learn English that, on some occasions, it became difficult to handle the entire class. However, with the help of a kind teacher, this is not a problem. Most importantly, the satisfaction is that, at the end of the project, students who cannot yet write their own names, can confidently introduce themselves in English.

The second and third stages of EduBridge are a book donation program and closing event. Large stacks of books including story books and subject-related books were donated to school libraries to provide language materials to students and to encourage reading; thirst for knowledge. Third phase; the final event was incredible; Thelangapatha Sri Ratnapala Vidyalaya students showcased their talents through a talent show. They sing, dance, give speeches, recite poetry, and are very happy to receive gifts. On the last day of the project, the students asked for more programs like this, which was very heartwarming, and the teachers subsequently agreed. The overall positive feedback received not only from students, but also from teachers and parents, is quite good and tempting enough to organize more projects of this kind.

In conclusion, EduBridge has succeeded in providing a strong foundation in English for students of Thelangapatha Sri Ratnapala Vidyalaya, instilling a sense of confidence and enthusiasm for future learning. This achievement was made possible by the unity of the collaborating clubs and their members, the dedication and teamwork of the organizing committee, supporters and curious young learners. As the saying goes, investing in education is the best investment, even a small business can have a big impact on the future.

Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.