Public education is available from
the age of 6 to the age of 18. However, many government schools, particularly
in rural areas like Akuressa, receive minimal government funding. The
facilities at the schools are very basic, particularly the classrooms that get
extremely cramped as average class sizes are around 40 to 60 children.
Effective, qualified, sustainable education may only be found in private
schools and “selected” governmental schools.
The ability to speak English is of great
importance in Sri Lanka. The two main sources of income in Sri Lanka are
tourism and migrant workers going to the Middle East. Both occupations require
the ability to speak English – the world’s global language. However, the level
of English teaching in government schools is limited.
Coming
here to Akuratatha/Akuressa with your will and your enthusiasm to devote
temporarily time as a social worker, teacher, coach, guide AND role model, is
of immense help for us. You would not only organize English language activities
and help to improve language skills by your presence, but also educate the
young people.
In
Sri Lankan’s culture monks, teachers and parents have got the highest status.
When you are here, as a volunteer you will also be seen the same. Sri Lankans
see you as an ethically person who is demonstrating honesty and democracy. And
children will respect you what you preach!
Working in the English Teaching
Program is accepted as an internship for your university course or practical
training requirements for other job careers. We have been doing a very
successful exchange program with the students of the University of
International Cooperation North South in Belgium.
No practical teaching experience is
required to join this program. You will have a syllabus to follow, our local
teachers here will support you in planning your lessons.
We
expect you to be able to inspire, empower, enhance the young ones to have faith
in themselves to improve their English language skills. Creating a joyful,
funny, happy learning atmosphere is our goal!
