In the realm of education, the dedication of teachers is the cornerstone of success. At the Merrill J. Fernando Charitable Foundation (MJFCF), we consistently prioritise an ethos of excellence, empowering countless minds through various initiatives. Our Rainbow Programme has supported 3,500 children, the MJF Kids Programme has empowered over 4,000 young learners, our preschools have positively impacted 232 children, and the Curtiss Institute of Design Technology has provided fundamental IT training for 6,000 students.
This Teacher’s Day, we’re celebrating over 90 extraordinary educators, special education teachers, trainers and instructors who’ve been the driving force behind the success of many students at our Foundation.
Here are a few of their stories.
Lankani helping a preschooler in the Math-Lab
Lankani Gajasinghe has served as a special education teacher for both youth and children following the Rainbow Programme at the MJF Foundation in Moratuwa for the last couple of years. The Rainbow Programme is dedicated to providing children and youth with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities the necessary education, therapies and vocational training to reach their fullest capability. Lankani herself lives with Cerebral palsy, a fact that has inspired many to see her as a strong role model and advocate.
Her influence extends beyond the classroom; she is also a sought-after guest speaker at motivational programmes, such as the recent ‘Diriya Parental Awareness Programme’ organised by Ayati (Sri Lanka’s first National Centre for Children with Disabilities). Furthermore, Lankani manages the Math-Lab, a space for logical discoveries and experiments open to everyone who visits the MJFCF, Moratuwa.
Charika with a group of students at the CCCPDD
Charika Nilushini, a special needs education teacher at our Centre for Children with Cerebral Palsy and other Development Disorders (CCCPDD), joined us only last year and has already made a tremendous positive impact on our students.
A powerful example of her commitment is her student, Sithija Thekshana, who was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Under Charika’s guidance, Sithija successfully passed his Grade 5 Scholarship Examination, scoring an exceptional 132 out of 140. What inspires teachers like Charika to be a part of the CCCPDD family is the collective effort of the management, students, teachers, and parents in making this a space where ideas can be expressed freely and different plans for the students can be initiated swiftly.
Storytelling sessions of Deepanjali
Deepanjali Fernando is one of our preschool teachers, currently guiding 28 young talents. She has cultivated a creative academic environment, and her students have actively participated in collective dance performances at our MJF Foundation Centre – Moratuwa. Deepanjali believes that her teaching methodology — utilising dance, drama, and games, has led the preschoolers to grow significantly in confidence, skills, and happiness, which inspires her every day.
Lankani’s mentorship to Charika’s academic triumphs and Deepanjali’s creative guidance are direct reflections of the dedication, empathy, and professional excellence demonstrated daily by our entire teaching staff. This spirit of collaboration has been a pillar at our MJF Foundation, aligning with our founder, Merrill J. Fernando’s desire for his business to be one that serves humanity. Our teachers are doing precisely that by sharing their profound knowledge and giving back to the next generation.
Every cup of Dilmah you savour with your friends or family has made the life-changing work of the MJF Foundation a reality.
Today and every day, we’re raising a cup to the inspirational teachers who change lives and empower ability. Happy World Teachers’ Day!
