ශිල්ප යාත්රා (Shilpa Yathra)
January 28, 2025 · 2:30 AM - 10:30 AM @ Dehiwala, S De S Jayasinghe Central College
Description
“ ශිල්ප යාත්‍රා/Shilpa Yathra, ” held on 28th January 2025, was more than just a workshop. It was a heartfelt journey of empowerment, resilience, and hope. Organized by the IEEE WIE Affinity Group of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, this initiative unfolded at S De S Jayasinghe Central College, Dehiwala, Sri Lanka, a school where students face not only academic obstacles, but also personal and social challenges that often go unnoticed. Recognizing the deep need for both academic support and emotional guidance, the Shilpa Yathra team stepped in with a mission to uplift, connect, and inspire. With a core focus on Mathematics and Science, the program was designed to strengthen students’ preparation for the G.C.E. Ordinary Level examinations, offering them not only lessons but a renewed sense of belief in their potential. Through carefully segmented lesson plans, our team delivered subject content matched to each student’s proficiency level. Weaker students received patient, personalized attention, while others were encouraged to push their boundaries. This tailored academic approach was coupled with one-on-one mentoring, where volunteers stepped beyond their roles as educators to become mentors, listeners, and motivators. For many students, this was the first time they felt truly seen and heard. The initiative also integrated: Engaging revision sessions, using real-world examples and interactive techniques to simplify tough concepts. Four full model papers with comprehensive discussions and feedback, identifying students' weak points and working on them together. Targeted lessons for predicted questions, and additional classes based on students’ personal learning needs. Career guidance and post-O/L advice, helping students see beyond exams and into a future full of possibilities. Mental and emotional support, especially for students carrying personal burdens, through meaningful conversations that nurtured their self-esteem and mental well-being. The feedback received was overwhelming and deeply moving. Students shared their gratitude with open hearts and many even requested continuous support. In response, our volunteers have kept the connection alive, continuing to share resources, answer questions, and guide students in their ongoing journey by proving that our commitment did not end with the closing ceremony. The program concluded with a vibrant recognition session, celebrating students’ efforts and igniting their motivation. It was a powerful reminder that when given the right guidance and encouragement, every child can rise.
Agenda
08.00 AM - 08.10 AM Lighting of the Oil Lamp 08.10 AM - 08.20 AM Welcome Speech by School Representative(Principal) 08.20 AM - 08.25 AM Welcome Speech by Chairwoman 08.25 AM - 08.30 AM Speech by IEEE WIE Affinity Group Advisor 08.30 AM - 10.30 AM Science Session (2 parallel sessions) 10.30 AM - 11.00 AM Fun Activity 11.00 AM - 11.30 AM Short Break 11.30 AM - 02.30 PM Mathematics Session (2 parallel sessions) 02.30 PM - 03.00 PM Group Activity 03.00 PM - 03.30 PM Exam Tips and Exam Motivation 03.30 PM - 03.45 PM Closing Session 03.45 PM - 03.50 PM Speech by event co-chair 03.50 PM - 04.00 PM Thank You Speech (School representative)