The Journey of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award at Ananda College

The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Unit at Ananda College was founded in 2018 by Mrs. Hemali Kolamunnage, with support from other teachers. It helps students develop leadership, resilience, and community spirit by encouraging them to face challenges and step out of their comfort zones. Over time, the unit has shaped confident, well-rounded individuals and become a key part of character building at Ananda College, inspiring students to achieve their goals and give back to society.

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award Experience

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award, founded in 1956 by Prince Philip, aims to help young people build essential skills, confidence, and resilience. In Sri Lanka, it is conducted by the National Youth Services Council. The award has become a global program available in over 140 countries. Open to participants aged 14 to 24, it offers three levels: Bronze, Silver, and Gold, each requiring increasing commitment. The program includes four key sections “Voluntary Service, Skills, Physical Recreation, and an Adventurous Journey” helping participants gain valuable experiences and make a positive impact on their communities.

Board of Officials (2025/26)

PRESIDENT – SANITHA JAYAWARDHANA
SECRETARY – THISAL THENUJAYA DISSANAYAKA
ASSISTANT SECRETARY - SENAL DIKSURA DE SILVA
TREASURER – RYAN CHANDRASEKARA
VICE PRESIDENT – RISON SENITHA
VICE TREASURER – SANUTH KIRINGODAGE
MEDIA CO-ORDINATOR – NEKSHA DE SILVA
CHIEF ORGANIZER – SATHINDU NARANGODA
ORGANIZER – SENAL KENUKA SIRIMANNE
ORGANIZER – GAGANA KETHAKA GUNATHILAKA
ORGANIZER – CHANUDA SAHAS PERERA

Achievements

In 2019, our students participated in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award ceremony at Temple trees premises, and again in 2024 at the National Youth Centre. During these ceremonies, our students were proudly awarded bronze and silver awards, recognizing their hard work and commitment to the program's challenges.