On Friday, 12 September 2025, a group of 11 MBBS undergraduates from the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) visited Sarvodaya Headquarters for an interactive community learning experience.

The objective of the visit was to gain first-hand understanding of the issues faced by local communities, review the services available to them, and actively engage in health promotion activities.

The program began with a warm welcome and an insightful introduction to Sarvodaya’s mission and work by the Executive Director. The students then toured several key units, including the Suwasetha Children’s Centre, the Nutrition Centre, the Planter Health Unit, and the Field Operations Division, gaining valuable exposure to Sarvodaya’s holistic approach to community development and public health.

A highlight of the visit was an inspiring session by Dr. Charika Marasinghe, who spoke on the practice of mindfulness and introduced the students to Vishva Niketan International Peace Centre. They explored the exhibition, museum and archives of Sarvodaya. The session encouraged reflection on the role of mindfulness in promoting overall well-being.

This visit provided the students with a deeper appreciation of community health needs and the innovative, people-centered solutions offered by Sarvodaya.