WATTALA — The Serendib Educational Foundation (SEF) marked its remarkable 35th Anniversary with the inauguration of the SEF Founders’ English Library and a newly upgraded IT Lab at Muslim Vidyalaya, Welegoda, Wattala on Tuesday October 7.
The ceremonial opening was attended by chief guest Thariq Thulba Former Rotary International Governor, recipient of Rotary’s highest honours — the Service Above Self Award and The Rotary Foundation’s Award for Meritorious Service. He was welcomed by Principal K. Suthasaran , staff, and students of the school.
The English Library, a beacon of hope for this small yet vibrant community in Welegoda, aims to nurture a love for reading and enhance communication skills among students who have limited access to such facilities. Mr. Thulba, in his inspiring address, stated, “Every page turned and every key pressed in the IT Lab will be a blessing upon SEF members and their generous donors.”
The IT Lab was officially opened by Lateef Farook, SEF Founding Member, Senior Journalist, and Author — former Middle East Bureau Chief for Khaleej Times and Gulf News — along with Mrs. Azra Fiyas, daughter of the late A. Seyyed Mohamed, one of the founding members of SEF. Their presence symbolized SEF’s enduring legacy of dedication and service to education and community development.
During the event, SEF Secretary Shahnawaz Othman announced that additional funds have been allocated to strengthen both the English and IT programs in 2026, including appointing resource personnel to sustain SEF’s ongoing engagement in uplifting this deserving community.
Before the program commenced, Lateef Farook and Reza Alaudeen addressed the media, highlighting SEF’s vision in establishing Founders’ English Libraries as part of its 35th-year initiative. The next library and IT Lab opening is scheduled for Jaffna in January 2026.
The Sabrina Yusoof Foundation also played a key role by voluntarily providing their staff to support the establishment and arrangement of the library. In her Vote of Thanks, Deputy Principal Mrs. Dharshani Gunawardena extended her heartfelt gratitude to the Foundation for their invaluable service and contribution to the school community.
The event stood as a heartfelt tribute to SEF’s founding members, whose vision, dedication, and generosity continue to inspire projects that empower and transform communities through education.
