Over 100 students from three Tamil-medium estate-sector schools were recognized at the NextGen Skills Awards Ceremony and Student Showcase held at Araliya Green Hills on September 19.

The event marked a key milestone in the British Council’s NextGen Skills pilot, delivered in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education, the Central Provincial Department of Education, the Nuwara Eliya Zonal Education Office and three participating schools, Holbrook Tamil Maha Vidyalaya, Agarapathana Tamil Maha Vidyalaya, and Saumiyamoorthy Thondaman College.

Adapted from the British Council’s English for Digital and Girls Education (EDGE) programme for the Sri Lankan context, the pilot engaged 142 students aged 12-15 including 43 trained Peer Group Leaders through inclusive, mixed-gender, peer-led after-school clubs. Participating students developed English communication, digital literacy, social-emotional and leadership skills.

During the ceremony, students demonstrated their confidence, creativity, and teamwork through speeches, drama, and dance. Participating students, Peer Group Leaders, Teacher Supervisors, school leaders, and education partners received certificates and recognition.

Speaking at the event,Head of English and School Education at the British Council in Sri Lanka,Anju Moses noted that many students who joined the programme were quiet and unsure, found the confidence to participate, form friendships and lead.
Deputy Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education Dr. Madhura Senevirathna said, “The NextGen Skills pilot demonstrates what becomes possible when young people, including those in underserved communities, are trusted to take an active role in learning. By combining English and digital skills with teamwork, confidence and peer leadership, the programme supports our priorities for more equitable, relevant and inclusive education. We welcome the learning emerging from this partnership as we consider how approaches such as this might inform opportunities for more students across Sri Lanka.”

Country Director of the British Council Sri Lanka Clare Sears added, “NextGen Skills reflects something central to the British Council’s work, English is not only something to be studied, but a means through which young people can express ideas, build connections and access new opportunities. By recognising students as contributors, not only beneficiaries, the peer-led model creates space for them to learn with and from one another.” (Newswire)