Sri Dalada Maligawa, also known as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, in partnership with People’s Bank’s CSR brand “Mahajana Mehewara”, has launched the 'Buddhist Welfare Scholarships Fund,' a significant social service initiative aimed at supporting the educational needs of children from low-income families across Sri Lanka regardless of their ethnicity, religion etc. 

The launch ceremony was held at the People’s Bank Head Office in Colombo 2, with the participation of Diyawadana Nilame Pradeep Nilanga Dela, People’s Bank Chairman Sujeewa Rajapakse, and Chief Executive Officer/General Manager Clive Fonseka.

Established initially in 1995, the Buddhist Welfare Scholarships Fund has been a pivotal element in Sri Dalada Maligawa and People’s Bank’s efforts to nurture the future leaders of Sri Lanka, providing substantial support to student monks and school children of all backgrounds. As of May 2024, the fund will deliver scholarships to 2,000 deserving students from grades 6 to 11, with plans to expand assistance to up to 10,000 students over the next five years.

During the event, Diyawadana Nilame Pradeep Nilanga Dela remarked, "The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic not only serves as a place of worship but also spearheads numerous social initiatives like the Buddhist Welfare Scholarships Fund under 'Apey Sathkaaraya' to enhance the lives of our people. This fund, generously supported by Sri Dalada Maligawa with an allocation of Rs.500 million, is a testament to our commitment to the educational and moral development of our children."

People’s Bank Chairman Sujeewa Rajapakse stated “People's Bank has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to empower and uplift the community. Our collaboration with Sri Dalada Maligawa epitomizes our dedication to the nation's future for which education is the key. As the official bank of the Maligawa and a sponsor of the annual Esala Perahera, our relationship is deep-rooted and extends beyond mere financial transactions."

CEO/GM Clive Fonseka emphasized the bank's broader social responsibilities, stating, "For over six decades, People’s Bank has not just been a financial institution but a pillar of community support through initiatives like 'Mahajana Mehewara.' Our new venture with Sri Dalada Maligawa is another step forward in our mission to support the educational aspirations of the nation’s children."

The event was also attended by key personnel from both institutions, including People’s Bank Deputy General Manager (Retail Banking) T.M.W Chandrakumara, Head of Marketing Nalaka Wijayawardana, Deputy General Manager (Channel Management) Naleen Pathiranage, Deputy General Manager (Human Resources) Manjula Dissanayake, Kandy Regional Manager Nalin Poththewela and Krishantha Hissella – Director Media and Special Projects of Sri Dalada Maligawa.