The Government of Japan granted US$ 83,692 for ‘the Project for Improving Facilities of Center for Disabled Children in Buttala, Moneragala, Sri Lanka, through the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP).
2% of children aged between 5-14 years have some form of disability and are excluded from mainstream education, with participation declining with age.
Therefore, the Government of Japan remains steadfast in helping Sri Lanka achieve inclusive education by enhancing ancillary services so that no one is left behind.
The Little Tree Special Needs Children’s Center in Buttala is home to 35 children with disabilities and youth aged between 4-21 years and has provided educational opportunities and vocational training since its inception in 2010. It is also the only institution to offer a dedicated service for the entire Moneragala District. Surangani Voluntary Services started the centre responding to parents’ requests in Buttala where there had been no educational service for children with special needs back then.
This project will enhance educational facilities and uplift the quality of the vocational training environment. It will also include providing a collective organic farm, sanitary facilities, a sick room, and a school van to increase students with disabilities.
