Sahurda ‘23 stands as a profoundly meaningful initiative undertaken by the AHEAD Students’ Association of the Department of Human Resource Management, University of Kelaniya. It was one of the most pivotal Undergraduate Social Responsibility (USR) projects conducted, specifically tailored for the well-being of differently abled children. As undergraduates, this project isn’t just a fulfilment of a duty; rather, it resonates with a deep and authentic understanding of the needs and emotions of the community it aims to serve.

On December 5, 2023, the event gracefully unfolded at Sukitha Special School in Galpatha, transforming a mere date on the calendar into a profound experience for all involved. The primary objective was not just to host an organized event but to orchestrate a symphony of care, understanding, and inclusivity for those little ones.

The exceptional guidance provided by Mr. Priyadharshana Peiris, the Head of the Department, and Ms. Madhavi Gunasekara, the Senior Treasurer of the AHEAD Students’ Association, was nothing short of an unwavering beacon. Their leadership illuminated the path for the students, infusing the project with sincerity and purpose. Moreover, the invaluable contributions of our esteemed panel of lecturers added layers of depth and insight to the project. Furthermore, the financial backing provided by our sponsors allowed us to organize and execute the event seamlessly, as well as other material contributions, were indispensable in bringing our vision to fruition.

On the morning of the project day, our anticipation and eagerness led us to the designated area, where we were met with an unexpected and heartwarming surprise. The differently abled children had orchestrated a series of events, showcasing their talents through dancing and singing performances. Witnessing these heartfelt displays was an emotional journey, as their innate abilities, kindness, and affection radiated through each moment, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts. The tears that welled up in our eyes were not tears of sorrow but rather expressions of overwhelming joy and profound admiration for these incredible children.

After the soul-stirring performances, we seized the opportunity to distribute the stationery and items we had carefully prepared for the children. The palpable excitement and gratitude in their eyes were beyond words, serving as a powerful affirmation of the meaningful impact our project had on their lives. Every smile and expression of happiness became a living testament to the positive change we had brought to these children, reinforcing the significance of our collective effort.

To infuse an extra layer of delight into the occasion, one of our colleagues transformed into Santa Claus, becoming a source of boundless joy as he distributed small gifts. The resulting atmosphere of sheer joy and laughter proved contagious, creating a festive ambiance that lingered long after the event had concluded. In that transformative moment, it became abundantly clear that our project had not only fulfilled material needs but had also sown the seeds of lasting memories and genuine happiness for these remarkable children.

In the tapestry of Sahurda ’23, each thread of effort, compassion, and guidance wove together a narrative of unity and altruism. This project not only touched the lives of the differently abled children at Sukitha Special School but also left an indelible mark on the hearts of everyone involved, fostering a sense of community, empathy, and shared humanity.