The Hemas Outreach Foundation has announced the inauguration of its 75th Piyawara Preschool, marking a pivotal advancement in early childhood development in Sri Lanka. This new preschool, established under the Homagama Pradeshiya Sabha, is a collaborative effort with Fly & Help, Germany.
Created in partnership with the National Secretariat for Early Childhood Development under the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs, the Piyawara initiative is driven by a mission to provide every Sri Lankan child with the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive during their formative years. Currently, over 4,000 preschoolers benefit annually from the Piyawara model, which emphasizes child-friendly environments, access to trained educators, and a nurturing approach to early learning.
The opening ceremony in Homagama was attended by the Chairman and members of the Homagama Pradeshiya Sabha, parliamentarians, government officials, religious leaders, parents, children, and community members. Senior leadership from Hemas Holdings PLC, including the Board of Directors and Trustees of the Hemas Outreach Foundation, were also present at the event.
During the ceremony, the Chairman of the Hemas Outreach Foundation expressed, “Reaching the 75th Piyawara Preschool is a moment of pride not only for Hemas but for every community that has helped bring this initiative to life. For more than two decades, Piyawara has provided a safe space for children to learn and grow, and we remain committed to expanding this effort so that thousands more young learners can access quality preschool education across Sri Lanka.”
Kasun Rathnayake, Chairman of the Homagama Pradeshiya Sabha, emphasized, “Our primary goal is to provide a high-quality educational foundation that supports the holistic development of every child while ensuring their safety and well-being. We also take special responsibility in preparing children for the future by nurturing their intelligence, creativity, social abilities, and the essential skills needed for school life.”
Shiromi Masakorala, Executive Director of the Hemas Outreach Foundation, highlighted the program’s broader impact: “Piyawara is more than a collection of preschools, it is a holistic approach to early childhood development. Over 23 years, more than 100,000 children have received early education through Piyawara. Beyond infrastructure development, we invest in teacher upskilling, parental engagement, child protection, support for children with disabilities, and emergency interventions during times of crisis. Our vision is to strengthen the entire early childhood ecosystem in Sri Lanka.”
The journey from one preschool to 75 underscores the power of collaboration, continuity, and shared purpose. As the program continues to expand, the Hemas Outreach Foundation remains focused on increasing access to preschool education, particularly in underserved communities.
With additional preschools under construction and in the planning stages, Piyawara aims to extend its reach and advocate for ensuring that every child in Sri Lanka receives the strong foundation needed for a brighter future.
Photo Caption – Standing from L to R: Ajith Fernando, Chairman of Hemas Holdings PLC, Shiromi Masakorala, Executive Director – Hemas Outreach Foundation / AYATI Trust Sri Lanka, Hon R.M.S. Kasun Rathnayaka – Chairman of Homagama Pradeshiya Sabha, Hon. Anura Panagoda, Member of Parliament/ Chairman of Divisional Coordinating Committee, Hon Janaka Kodithuwakku – Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation
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