Cornell University is the only university outside Sri Lanka offering a full curriculum in Sinhala. Therefore, it is critical that this unique program remains intact, not only to help Sri Lankan students connect with their heritage but also to introduce Sri Lankan culture through language to the entire Cornell community. 

The Sinhala Language Program is currently facing the threat of being pruned down and ultimately closed due to lack of funding. The university administration will reduce its contribution by 2018, rendering it a part-time study program. Once the Sinhala Program is converted to a part-time program, it will not be able to retain the services of a highly qualified professor, resulting in ultimate closure.

We as members of the Cornell Sri Lankan Students Association are asking for your help to save the Sinhala Language Program. 

This course truly represents the spirit of Cornell. We are an endlessly diverse university, and what makes us unique is how we celebrate ALL of these differences. Sri Lankan culture is part of the myriad of heritages that makes Cornell so special, and ending the Sinhala Language Program would be a devastating blow to Sri Lankan cultural presence on this campus. 

Saving the program requires two steps: fundraising and increasing interest in the course.The course is already remotely available to students at Columbia and Yale. We are working to talk to administrators about opening up access to students from other schools, to increase enrollment and help more students take advantage of this unique program. 

Donation information can be found at the following link: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/504abp7y65r9w95/AACyzykTKajFYeTaDQycj-6Da?dl=0&preview=SinhalaDonate17.pdf

Any contributions are appreciated! Please consider donating and passing the information along others. 

Your signature on this petition will make a big difference in how these conversations with administrators go. By signing, you're not only supporting the continuation of Sri Lankan education at Cornell--you're making a statement about the importance of maintaining cultural diversity in higher education.

Thank you for your support!