From October 28 to November 12, 2024, 20 students from the Faculty of Educational Studies at Villa College participated in an exciting mobility program in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This program provided an invaluable opportunity for hands-on learning, cultural exchange, and academic enrichment.

The students, accompanied by Senior Lecturer Mariyam Nihaadh and Associate Dean of the Faculty, Fathimath Saeed, engaged in a variety of activities designed to enhance their understanding of education and sustainability. Highlights of the program included:

School Visits: Students visited two schools, where they observed classroom sessions and attended special activities, gaining deeper insights into teaching methods and educational environments.

Sustainability and Biodiversity: The group explored a biodiversity-focused water project in Sri Lanka’s wet zone and visited a botanical garden where herbal medicines are produced for various diseases. A trip to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage further enriched their understanding of environmental conservation and sustainability.

Professional Development at SACTD: At the South Asia Centre for Teacher Development (SACTD), students participated in sessions on 21st-century skills and differentiated instruction, equipping them with essential tools for modern teaching practices.

Collaboration with Open University Sri Lanka: Students had the chance to interact with faculty members from Open University Sri Lanka, exploring opportunities for future collaborations and expanding their academic networks.

This immersive program allowed participants to experience Sri Lanka's unique cultural and educational landscape while broadening their perspectives on sustainability, global education, and teaching methodologies.

Villa College is proud to offer such transformative experiences to its students, fostering personal and professional growth that will help shape the educators of tomorrow.