The Hemas Outreach Foundation, a pioneer in early childhood development, has expanded its flagship Piyawara initiative with the opening of its first preschool in the plantation sector at Pedro Estate, Nuwara Eliya. The new facility, established in collaboration with the Plantation Human Development Trust (PHDT) and Kelani Valley Plantations, will provide 50 children from plantation worker families with access to quality early childhood care and education. Designed to foster a nurturing and inclusive learning environment, the preschool aims to bridge educational gaps faced by underserved communities in Sri Lanka’s hill country.
“With this opening, we mark an important milestone for the Hemas Outreach Foundation,” said Mr. Abbas Esufally, Chairperson of the Hemas Outreach Foundation. “By creating opportunities for young children at the very start of their learning journey, we not only invest in their future but also strengthen the wellbeing of their families and the wider community.”
The Pedro Estate preschool becomes the 71st Piyawara school in the country, with five more currently under construction in other districts. Since its inception, the initiative has grown into a national network of preschools that uphold high-quality standards through regular assessments, teacher training, and structured improvement programmes.
Launched in 2002 as a public–private partnership with the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs, Piyawara has become one of Sri Lanka’s most successful models for early childhood education. For over two decades, it has worked to ensure that every child, regardless of background, receives the foundation needed to learn, grow, and thrive. The opening of the Pedro Estate preschool underscores Hemas’ commitment to expanding opportunities for vulnerable communities and ensuring that no child in Sri Lanka is left behind.
About Hemas Outreach Foundation
The Hemas Outreach Foundation is the social arm of Hemas Holdings PLC. Through Piyawara, its flagship initiative, the Foundation works with the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs to establish and upgrade preschools nationwide, ensuring equitable access to quality early childhood education for children across Sri Lanka.
