Smiles Beyond the Hills

Daraniyagala is a village that is situated about 14 kilometers from the town of Dehiovita.

Daranigala itself is quite urbanized, but the villages inside are far from being urbanized. I have been living in Daranigala for two years now, and during this time, I have noticed children and parents who have never gone out of the limits of this area.

Despite braving dirty, muddy roads and navigating through heavier rainfalls, their tireless endeavors to drive the education of their children, even by just a notch, to higher planes deserve genuine credit.As far as I know, schools like Pothdenikanda, Mahayaya, and Udamaliboda lack a sufficient number of teachers, especially for English. The few teachers who are available often come from distant provinces, and their attendance is inconsistent. Even if they manage to come for two days a week, they’re often absent for the remaining three.

In such a situation, reaching out to children who rarely leave their villages and providing them with English education at their doorstep is truly a remarkable act.

Likewise, those villages are not only inaccessible but also scenic and rejuvenating. The humane nature of the people residing over there is of the utmost level, and their hospitality towards visitors is truly praiseworthy.

With waterfalls in the ears and a view of lovely green hills, I am certain you will find some solace and peace in all this toil.

I am also sure that the parents of those children are very grateful to you, though they do not always express it. You must be able to perceive this gratitude in their natural smile.

Wishing you all the best...