The English Language Scholarship Programme of John Keells Foundation was launched in 2004 in collaboration with Gateway Language Centre. This long-term and island-wide project is aimed at enhancing English language skills of school children and youth from socially and economically disadvantaged backgrounds, with an aim to improve their opportunities for higher learning and sustainable employment in an increasingly competitive world. It complements State policy and initiatives to improve speaking and communicative skills in English throughout Sri Lanka.

The main focus is ‘English for Teens’ – with over 1,000 scholarships on offer each year for 12-14 year old students of disadvantaged government schools. High-performing students have the opportunity of natural progression to the next level. In addition, identified groups of youth and children are also offered customized programmes e.g. University of Moratuwa Transport and Logistics Management (Bsc (T&LM) Hons.) and students of the school for the Deaf, Ratmalana. Each year, a total of approximately 1,500 scholarships are provided to children and youth from across the country.

Impact:
Since its launch in 2004, this programme has empowered the lives of over 19,596 children and youth island wide.