It's such a Prefect Day

Sarath de Mel was Della and Don's guide when the Tsunami hit back in 2004.  Unfortunately he passed away several years ago but believed that every child should have access to the best education possible.  In his memory, we provide prizes at the Village School for three children who have excelled in discipline, performance and attendance and these are presented by his widow and children.


This years winners were Ruwani (Grade 5), Shahin (Grade 9) and Vishwa (Grade 10).  All were worthy winners but it was particularly pleasing to see Vishwa make it because last year he asked how he could win; "work hard, turn up and be good", we said.  All but Ruwani chose a bike; instead she chose a melodica and we made up the prize by buying brand new clothes and towels.

The ceremony at the school also marked the annual Prefect's Day when the new ones are sworn in and the blazers which we supplied 18 months ago are handed out to them. And then, we handed every child in the school with a new uniform - 124 of them - a task which was completed in about 20 minutes but had taken days to set up, with multiple trips to the suppliers and each individually sized and signed.   

It may seem indulgent, but today was a great day to see the culmination of our ongoing efforts actually pay off - a smart, impressive school band; prizes for those who have excelled and recognition and pride for the new prefects.  Things are never perfect and perhaps progress is slower than we'd like, but today we can reflect on just how much of a difference FODAD and all its supporters are actually making.