At the Faculty of Management Studies, The Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL), we believe that education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about applying that knowledge to make a positive impact on society. Our Advanced Certificate in HRM Program (ACHRM) is a testament to this belief, fostering a culture of compassion and social responsibility among our students.
Through various CSR initiatives, our students have engaged with communities across Sri Lanka, leaving an enduring legacy of kindness and hope. From volunteering at local orphanages to elderly homes and supporting educational initiatives, they have demonstrated a remarkable commitment to making a difference.
The ACHRMprogram of the Faculty of Management Studies, The Open University of Sri Lanka, has once again demonstrated the power of compassion and community service. Through a series of heartwarming Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, students from various regions have touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark on their communities. Our students are not merely passive learners but active agents of change, committed to making a positive impact on society.
The students, driven by a spirit of giving back, have embarked on various projects that have brought joy, hope, and support to those in need. From the bustling city of Colombo to the serene landscapes of Kandy, Ambalanthota, Ratnapura, and the Eastern Province, their dedication to making a difference is truly inspiring.
The CSR initiatives undertaken by the ACHRM program have benefited a diverse range of individuals and communities across Sri Lanka. Children from underprivileged backgrounds have received educational support and recreational activities, while those with special needs have received specialized attention. Elderly individuals have benefited from essential care and companionship. Differently abled individuals have benefited from essential care, companionship, and love through spending quality time with our students. They have also received necessary items to enhance their comfort and well-being.
In Kandy, Kurunegala, and Hatton, students brightened the days of children at a local children’s home. Engaging in games, sharing stories, and preparing delicious meals together, they created lasting memories and spread joy. As one student shared, “Seeing the smiles on their faces was the most rewarding experience. It made us realize the true meaning of happiness.”
In Ambalanthota, students supported the education of children by gifting stationery supplies and spending quality time with them. They understood the importance of education and the potential it holds to transform lives. By providing these essential tools and offering their companionship, they empowered young minds and instilled hope for the future.
In Ratnapura and Ambalanthota, students extended their compassion to the broader community by providing essential groceries, cooked meals, and other forms of support to those in need. They recognized the challenges faced by many and took the initiative to alleviate their suffering. As one student expressed, “We may not have much, but we can share what we have with others. It’s the little things that make a big difference.”
In Colombo, students visited a local home for individuals facing mental health challenges. They provided essential supplies, engaged in uplifting activities like singing and dancing, and offered their companionship. Their presence brought joy and a sense of belonging to those who often feel isolated and misunderstood. As one student said, “We may not be able to cure their pain, but we can alleviate their suffering by showing them that they are not alone.”
In the Eastern Cluster, which comprises students from Batticaloa, Trincomalee, and Ampara, it made a profound impact on the visually impairedindividuals. They provided food packets, stationery, and conducted a motivational program, inspiring the students to dream big and overcome challenges. They also organized a powerful talk by a resource person who shed light on the opportunities and challenges faced by visually impaired individuals. As one student shared, “We wanted to show them that they are capable of achieving great things, regardless of their limitations.”
The ACHRM program fosters a culture of giving back, encouraging students to actively contribute to society. These CSR initiatives exemplify the true spirit of the program, inspiring students to become compassionate leaders who make a positive impact.
Mother Teresa said, “Happiness is a byproduct of doing good.” The ACHRM students have undoubtedly found happiness in their selfless acts of kindness. Their dedication to making a difference serves as an inspiration to us all. Let us continue to be inspired by their example and strive to make a positive impact in our own communities. Participating in these CSR initiatives has been a truly transformative experience for our students.
They’ve returned from these projects not only with a sense of accomplishment but also with a profound understanding of the power of human kindness. Interacting with beneficiaries, witnessing their gratitude, and directly contributing to their well-being has ignited a spark of empathy and compassion within our students. They’ve realized that true happiness lies not in personal gain but in making a positive difference in the lives of others. These experiences have shaped them into more empathetic, compassionate, and socially responsible individuals, ready to make a lasting impact on the world.
At the Faculty of Management Studies, The Open University of Sri Lanka, we believe in empowering individuals to become not just knowledgeable professionals, but catalysts for positive change. Our curriculum is designed to not only impart academic knowledge but also to instill a strong sense of social responsibility.
We encourage our students to actively engage in community service initiatives, fostering a culture of giving back. Through various CSR projects, our students have made significant contributions to society, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of many.
By integrating social responsibility into our academic programs, we are preparing our students to become ethical leaders who can address societal challenges and create a sustainable future. We believe that education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about applying that knowledge to make the world a better place.
As Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Our students embody this truth, demonstrating that true education extends beyond textbooks and classrooms. It’s about nurturing hearts and minds, empowering individuals, and creating a better future for all. We are immensely proud of our students and eagerly anticipate the positive impact they will continue to make in the years to come.
Let us continue to inspire and empower our students to be agents of change, making a difference in their communities and beyond. Together, we can build a brighter future, one act of kindness at a time.
Rajendran Vinothra
Lecturer (Probationary)
Faculty of Management Studies
The Open University of Sri Lanka
