The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to investing in youth and strengthening its partnership with Sri Lanka. On Thursday, a new group of U.S. Peace Corps Volunteers was sworn in during a ceremony in Colombo, marking the second group of Volunteers to return to Sri Lanka following the program’s relaunch last year.
The U.S. Embassy in Colombo emphasized that this event highlights the growing collaboration between the two nations and their mutual dedication to education and cross-cultural exchange.
The Volunteers, who arrived in September 2024, have undergone 12 weeks of rigorous training in Sinhala or Tamil, Sri Lankan culture, and teaching methodologies.
Over the next two years, they will serve as English instructors in schools across the Central and Uva provinces. In collaboration with Sri Lankan teachers and school leaders, they aim to enhance English education in rural areas.
During the ceremony, the U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung praised the Volunteers for their impressive language skills, adaptability, and commitment.
The Ambassador noted that the Peace Corps program represents the core of people-to-people diplomacy, reflecting the U.S.’s dedication to empowering youth and strengthening bilateral relations.
By working closely with Sri Lankan communities, the Volunteers aim to advance education, promote mutual understanding, and build bridges that inspire young people in both countries to create a brighter future.
Nimali Baduraliya, Director of the English & Foreign Languages Department of Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Education, also highlighted the program’s significance.
She emphasized that the collaboration with the Peace Corps expands English education opportunities for all Sri Lankans and encouraged the Volunteers to embrace the cultural exchange opportunities they encounter.
Additionally, Dr. Nishadh Handunpathirana, the Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Education, participated in the event.
The Peace Corps program has a long-standing history in Sri Lanka, dating back to 1962. Over 500 Volunteers served in sectors like education, health, and agriculture until the program paused in 1998.
After its official relaunch in 2018, the focus shifted to strengthening English education, particularly in rural schools.
