Reaffirming its commitment to empowering future generations through education, Seylan Bank recently opened its 293rd Pahasara Library at Ranpokunugama Maha Vidyalaya, Ranpokunugama, marking another significant milestone in the Bank’s journey towards establishing 300 Pahasara Libraries across Sri Lanka.
The library was officially declared open in the presence of Ajith Wijesundara, Deputy Zonal Director – Western Province; Chamila Withana, Area Manager – West Region, Seylan Bank; B.S.S. Premarathna, Principal of Ranpokunugama Maha Vidyalaya; S.A.P.P. Subhasinghe, Deputy Principal of Ranpokunugama Maha Vidyalaya; G. Visakan, Manager – Brand Marketing, Seylan Bank; Tharindu Silva, Branch Manager of Seylan Bank Ranpokunugama Branch, parents, and members of the local community.
As part of the initiative, Seylan Bank donated two laptop computers, a multimedia projector with a projection screen, and books to enhance the school’s library facilities and expand the students’ access to knowledge and modern learning resources.
The opening ceremony culminated a week-long programme titled ‘Pahasara Week’, which was designed to encourage learning, creativity, leadership and community engagement among students. The programme featured a Financial Literacy Programme for Grade 10 students, equipping them with essential knowledge to make informed financial decisions and build responsible financial habits from an early age. A Grade 5 Scholarship Examination seminar was also conducted to support students preparing for one of the most important milestones in their academic journey.
Promoting literary expression among young learners, the programme also saw the unveiling of a student publication featuring poetry, free verse, and essays authored by students of the school. Seylan Bank recognised the creativity and talent of participants by awarding certificates to the 30 best submissions.
As part of the week’s activities, an Under-16 Volleyball Tournament brought together teams from Ranpokunugama Maha Vidyalaya, St. Mary’s College, Veyangoda and Janadipathi Vidyalaya, Veyangoda. The tournament served as a platform to foster teamwork, sportsmanship and stronger relationships among neighbouring schools. Janadipathi Vidyalaya, Veyangoda emerged as champions, receiving the tournament trophy, while certificates were awarded to all participating team members.
Commenting on the initiative, Asiri Abhayaratne, Assistant General Manager – Marketing and Sales, Seylan Bank, stated, “Education remains one of the most powerful tools for transforming lives and creating opportunities. Through the Pahasara programme, Seylan Bank continues to invest in the future of Sri Lanka by strengthening access to knowledge, nurturing financial literacy, and providing students with the resources they need to succeed. The opening of our 293rd Pahasara Library is another important step towards our vision of establishing 300 libraries across the country and creating a lasting impact within communities.”
For over three decades, Seylan Bank has remained committed to driving meaningful and sustainable community development through initiatives focused on education, youth empowerment and financial literacy. As one of the Bank’s flagship social sustainability initiatives, the Pahasara programme continues to strengthen school library infrastructure, expand access to essential learning tools and create opportunities for students across Sri Lanka to realise their full potential.
