U.S. Peace Corps Represents an Investment in the Future and Strengthening Ties with Sri Lanka

Colombo, Sri Lanka: Nineteen U.S. Peace Corps Volunteers were sworn in today in Colombo, marking the second cohort of Volunteers to return to Sri Lanka since the program’s historic relaunch last year. This event underscores the deepening U.S.-Sri Lankan partnership and the shared commitment to education and cross-cultural exchange. 

The Volunteers, who arrived in Sri Lanka in September 2024, completed 12 weeks of intensive training in Sinhala or Tamil, Sri Lankan culture, and teaching methodologies. Over the next two years, they will work as English language instructors in schools across the Central and Uva provinces, partnering with Sri Lankan teachers and school principals to enhance English education in rural schools. 

Speaking at the ceremony, the U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka commended the Volunteers for their impressive progress in Sinhala and Tamil, their adaptability, and their dedication to service. “The Peace Corps program exemplifies the essence of people-to-people diplomacy. These Volunteers reflect the United States’ commitment to investing in youth and strengthening our future partnership. By working hand in hand with Sri Lankan communities, they advance education, promote mutual understanding, and help build bridges that empower young people in both our nations to shape a brighter future.” 

Ms. Nimali Baduraliya, Director of the English & Foreign Languages Department of the Ministry of Education also addressed the importance of the program. “Our collaboration with the Peace Corps enhances English language education, creating opportunities for all Sri Lankans. I encourage these Volunteers to embrace the rich cultural exchange opportunities ahead as they contribute to our schools and communities.” The Additional Secretary from the Ministry of Education, Dr. Nishadh Handunpathirana also participated in the ceremony. 

The Peace Corps program in Sri Lanka has a long history, beginning in 1962. More than 500 Volunteers served in various sectors such as education, health, and agriculture until 1998. After a hiatus, the program officially relaunched in 2018, focusing on English language education, particularly in rural schools. 

About the Peace Corps in Sri Lanka: Peace Corps Volunteers work in collaboration with Sri Lankan communities, focusing on education and cultural exchange. From 1962 to 1998, Peace Corps efforts included significant contributions such as the District English Learning Improvement Center (DELIC) program, which trained young Sri Lankans as English teachers in rural schools. The relaunch of the program in 2018 reaffirmed the commitment to strengthening education and fostering mutual understanding. 

About the Peace Corps: Founded in 1961, the Peace Corps has engaged more than 240,000 Volunteers in service to 144 countries worldwide, advancing its mission of world peace and friendship. Volunteers collaborate with host countries on locally prioritized projects in education, health, environment, agriculture, and more, while building cross-cultural understanding and fostering global leadership. 

Ambassador Julie Chung addressing the 26th group of Peace Corps volunteers to serve in Sri Lanka.

Peace Corps volunteers taking part in the official swearing in ceremony in Colombo.

Newly sworn-in Peace Corps Volunteers with U.S. Ambassador and Sri Lankan officials at the ceremony in Colombo.

Ambassador Julie Chung and Peace Corps Country Director Kavitha Pullapilly along with the newly sworn in volunteers of the Peace Corps.