5/6/2026
Qatar Charity (QC), with support from donors, has completed the first phase of its flagship educational initiative in Sri Lanka, which aims to distribute 2,000 bicycles to students in remote areas. Recently, 500 bicycles were distributed during this stage to empower students to reach their schools easily and safely.
This initiative comes in response to the significant challenges faced by students in rural areas, where many are forced to walk distances ranging from 3 to 5 kilometers daily to attend classes. These difficult commutes often negatively impact their regular attendance and academic performance.
Financial Burden
The first phase of the bicycle distribution covered several districts, including Gampaha, Anuradhapura, Trincomalee, Batticaloa, and Ampara. The initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on underprivileged families, reduce school dropout rates, and ensure students reach their schools on time with less physical effort, ultimately contributing to better educational outcomes.
During the distribution ceremony held at Zahira National School in the Anuradhapura District, Mr. Ananda Rathnayake, Coordinating Secretary to the Governor’s Office of the North Central Province, expressed his deep appreciation for Qatar Charity's efforts. He emphasized that such initiatives play a vital role in reducing dropout rates and strengthening educational development in the province.
Long-Awaited Dream
The beneficiary students expressed their immense joy at this support. Raheem Mohamed Althaf, a 6th-grade student at Al Mina Maha Vidyalayam, noted that the bicycle has enabled him to be independent and arrive on time after previously struggling with delays.
Mohamed Sameem Fathima Shima, a 9th-grade student at Mutur An Noor Ladies College, explained how the bicycle has eased her parents' worries regarding her safety and transportation costs. Meanwhile, Mohamed Ismath Afnan, a 10th-grade student at Al Hilal Central College, described receiving the bicycle as a long-awaited dream come true, allowing him to attend school regularly and even take his younger brother with him.
Extended Efforts
It is worth noting that Qatar Charity's efforts in Sri Lanka extend beyond the distribution of bicycles. The organization is currently implementing several educational construction projects, including two complete schools and a three-story science laboratory, all scheduled for handover before the end of this year. These efforts, along with the distribution of school kits and stationery, reaffirm Qatar Charity’s commitment to supporting the education sector and investing in the future of generations.