AIA Higher Education Scholarship programme marks 31 years, inspiring over 750 students nationwide

AIA Insurance marked a significant milestone by celebrating 31 years of its Higher Education Scholarships Programme, one of the longest running corporate social responsibility initiatives in Sri Lanka.

The prestigious awards ceremony was held at Cinnamon Lakeside, Colombo.

This year, AIA honoured the 25th batch of top performing students from each district who excelled at the Grade 05 scholarship examination and are now embarking on their GCE Advanced Level studies.

Launched in 1994, the AIA Higher Education Scholarships Programme was initiated to recognise and nurture exceptional academic talent from across the island.

Each year, students who secure the highest marks in their respective districts are selected purely on merit, with no requirement for any affiliation with AIA.

From the commencement of their Advanced Level studies through to the completion of their university education, these scholars receive a monthly bursary, enabling them to pursue their academic aspirations without financial burden.

Delivering the keynote address, the Chief Guest, Professor Sampath Amaratunge, Former Chairperson of the University Grants Commission, highlighted the critical role of education in national development and the importance of sustained corporate involvement in empowering future generations.

Speaking at the ceremony, a student took stage to thank AIA Insurance Lanka, stating

“AIA has believed in us at a time when it mattered most, and we are determined to honour that trust by contributing positively to our country.”

Over the past 31 years, the programme has supported more than 750 students, many of whom have gone on to excel as doctors, lawyers, engineers, academics, and public servants, making meaningful contributions to Sri Lanka’s progress.

These outcomes reflect the far reaching impact of purpose led corporate responsibility and the transformative power of education in shaping future leaders.

According to Department of Census and Statistics, Sri Lanka, the country boasts a literacy rate of 97.4% in 2024, one of the highest in South Asia.

Yet, a significant challenge remains. Despite near-universal secondary education enrolment, participation in tertiary education drops sharply to 21%, well below the global average (UNICEF, 2021).

This disparity highlights the need for targeted support to help capable students overcome structural barriers to higher education.

AIA’s Higher Education Scholarships Programme directly addresses this gap by bridging potential with opportunity.

Guided by its purpose of helping people live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives, AIA views education as a powerful enabler that empowers individuals to build a better future for themselves and the nation.

As the programme marks its 31st year, AIA reaffirms its long term commitment to investing in Sri Lanka’s youth, confident that empowering young minds today will help shape a more resilient Sri Lanka tomorrow.