The Rotary Club of Colombo West has announced a series of healthcare and education initiatives for the 2026/27 Rotary year, with programs aimed at improving children’s vision, funding life-saving heart surgeries and expanding access to cataract treatment across Sri Lanka.
The initiatives were unveiled as Harsha Rajan assumed office as the club’s 66th President during an installation ceremony held at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo.
Addressing the gathering, President Rajan outlined his vision for the year ahead, saying the club would focus on projects that address critical healthcare and educational needs while delivering lasting benefits to underserved communities. The programmes will be carried out under Rotary’s 2026/27 theme, “Create Lasting Impact.”
New Leadership Sets the Direction
The installation ceremony brought together Rotarians, corporate leaders, distinguished guests and well-wishers. Rotary District 3220 Governor Kumar Sundararaj attended as the Chief Guest, while Rotary Foundation Trustee and former Rotary International Director A. S. Venkesh delivered the keynote address, highlighting Rotary’s continued commitment to service, leadership and community impact.
The Rotary Club of Colombo West said its priorities for the new Rotary year will centre on sustainable community initiatives that create measurable improvements in healthcare, education and social welfare.
Healthcare and Education Take Centre Stage
Among the club’s flagship initiatives is its support for the Rotary District 3220 project, “Sharp Eyes, Learn Better,” which aims to improve children’s vision and educational outcomes. The programme will conduct school-based vision screening, provide eye examinations through qualified specialists, and distribute prescription spectacles to underprivileged students, while also promoting greater awareness of children’s eye health among parents and teachers.
The club will also continue its “Save a Kid’s Life” Children’s Heart Surgery Project, which provides financial assistance for children from low-income families requiring critical cardiac surgery. Working with hospitals, cardiologists and paediatric cardiac surgeons, the initiative will identify children requiring urgent treatment while helping to cover surgical and post-operative care costs.
Another key initiative planned for the year is the Cataract Surgery Project, which will provide free cataract surgeries, medication and follow-up care for elderly and low-income patients. Through community screening programmes, the project aims to restore sight, improve independence and enhance the quality of life of beneficiaries.
The Rotary Club of Colombo West said these projects reflect its continued commitment to addressing pressing community needs while creating long-term social impact through partnerships with healthcare professionals, volunteers and community organisations.
As the club begins its 66th year of service, it aims to translate Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self,” into practical action by expanding access to healthcare and education for vulnerable communities across Sri Lanka.
Last modified: July 24, 2026
