99x rebuilds flood-damaged IT Labs restoring digital learning for rural schools in Mahiyanganaya

Saturday, 15 August 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Chief Developer Experience Officer Kalana Wijesekara, speaking at the handover ceremony

Opening of the IT Lab at Keselpotha Maha Vidyalaya

99x team at the opening of the IT lab at Keselpotha Maha Vidyalaya

99x recently partnered in the initiative to rebuild IT laboratories in schools that had lost them during the Ditwah disaster.

Over a few months, teams worked closely with the Prime Minister’s Office, SLASSCOM and school communities, selecting three schools in Mahiyanganaya to establish IT laboratories that build the digital skills becoming increasingly important in today’s world.

In July, volunteers from 99x travelled to Mahiyanganaya to complete the restoration of IT laboratories at Hebarawa Maha Vidyalaya, Bathalayaya Maha Vidyalaya and Keselpotha Maha Vidyalaya. The project included setting up laptops, classroom furniture and the supporting infrastructure needed to bring the laboratories back into use. Students gathered outside with excitement, waiting to see the new labs. The principal and teachers spoke about finally being able to restart practical IT lessons after months without the facilities they depended on.

Mahiyanganaya Hebarawa Maha Vidyalaya Principal Prasana Monohara Jayathilaka said: “On behalf of our students and teachers, I would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to 99x for donating computers and computer equipment to our school. This support will help our students enhance their computer knowledge and practical skills through improved learning facilities.”

Chief Developer Experience Officer Kalana Wijesekara, representing the 99x Corporate Relief Fund said: “Technology is opening doors to opportunities that were once out of reach for many young people. Our hope is that these IT labs give students the chance to learn, discover their potential and work towards building successful careers in the future. We want them to see that curiosity, determination and the right opportunities can help them achieve far more than they may imagine today. The opportunities created through initiatives like this have the potential to strengthen not only individual futures but also the communities they will one day serve.”

Many young people, especially in rural communities, a school computer lab is where their journey with technology begins. The restored IT laboratories in Mahiyanganaya represent renewed opportunities for students to learn, build practical skills and prepare for the future. The laboratories are now in place, but the journey doesn’t end here. In the coming months, volunteers from 99x will return to conduct IT and knowledge-sharing sessions, helping students make the most of these new learning spaces.