Life in Village - Higurakgoda
Code
2026/12/HG 4
Name
Life in Village
Location
Higurakgoda
Start
September 08
End
September 17
Type
SOCI, MANU
Vols.
8
Min age
18
Max age
99
Summary
Paddy farming area, new settlement, rural area. Second kingdom of the Sri Lanka. Explore the culture, Sharing with local communities on life and work, understand the dealing with challenges facing during the daily life and how to live and overcome them.
Background
This project, launched in partnership with Gami Sarana Maha Sangamaya, supports SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 15 (Life On Earth). It operates in Higurakgoda, a paddy farming settlement in Sri Lanka’s historic Polonnaruwa District.
The area was established in 1956 through a government resettlement plan that brought together families from diverse regions. Over time, these communities blended their subcultures into a unique local identity now carried by the third generation.
Despite rapid technological change, rural areas like Higurakgoda remain disconnected due to language barriers, limited awareness, and systemic neglect. This exclusion undermines national development, as rural participation is essential for building a just society. In addition to farming, many families engage in small-scale enterprises such as bag-making, spice packaging, and plant nurseries.
The project supports both land-owning farmers and landless families, promoting inclusive economic growth. It aims to bridge rural potential with national progress through grassroots collaboration. Ultimately, the initiative fosters resilience, cultural pride, and sustainable development in marginalized communities.
Work
First four days we are working to maintain the protection fence, which is made for protect villages from the elephants, and helping to maintain a plant nurseries etc. Second three days, we are moving around the village to meet community to do our next part of the projects. During the second part, you can meet a family, youth/children society members and watch their activities, women’s/farmers groups, visit village kindergarten/temple etc. In short,
- 1Help maintain protecting fence
- assist the nursery maintenances.
- Cultural exchange programs with villagers including youths.
- Activities with children
- Work and assist to self-help group member’s activities
Accommodation
Village house with a host family, located close to main road. There are electricity, filtered clean water to drink available as well. Mobile phones/internet are working. But no Wi-Fi. You have to wash your cloths by hand and have to hang outside for drying.
Study theme
Local SDGs (2030 goals) of the family, Higu and Sri Lanka
Other activities
Organizing cultural exchange events, Excursion, Environmental Education, Expeditions, Farewell party, etc.
Location
Higurakgoda. 218km from Colombo, suburb of Polonnaruwa, the second ancient kingdom in Sri Lanka and declared as a world heritage site. Many people depend on paddy farming and it is low population density area for Sri Lanka (122 people/ km2).
Terminal
Colombo – Volunteers need to arrive at Katunayake Bandaranayake International Airport by the end of September 07th and can leave there after 20:00 of September 17th. 7 hours by bus to the site. You will meet at the Colombo Government bus terminal in the morning on the first day.
Requirement
High motivation to work while experiencing different type of life style, accept challenges, adopt to local environment, respect and accept local life and culture.
Join with the Event
