German Lions Club donates Rs.18Mn to restore schools for Deaf and Blind in Ratmalana

Two schools under the Ceylon Schools for the Deaf and Blind (CSDB) in Ratmalana have received a major boost to their infrastructure with a donation exceeding Rs. 18 million from the Lions Club of Westerwald, Germany, and two of its members, Lion Rudolf Shwan and Lion Heinz-Günther Schumacher.  

The donation, facilitated through Dr. Gayani Von Heimendahl, enabled the long-awaited repair and restoration of several dilapidated buildings, significantly improving safety and comfort for students and staff at both institutions.  

Founded in 1912 by Miss Mary F. Chapman of the Zenana Missionary Society of the Church of England, the CSDB has provided free education, board, and lodging to children with hearing and visual impairments for over a century. Today, it runs two schools in Ratmalana and the Nuffield School for the Deaf and Blind in Jaffna, all operating as government-assisted institutions supported by private donations.  

“The generosity of the Lions Club of Westerwald and our German donors has come at a crucial time,” a CSDB spokesperson said. “Their support ensures that our students can continue their education in a safe and nurturing environment.”