Nationally esteemed social service organization the Muslim Ladies Study Circle (MLSC) is gearing up to mark its Golden Jubilee on 26th August at Hotel Ramada Colombo. Speaking to Life during an interview at their Head Office in Colombo, President of the MLSC- Sikhamani Ameena Faisz Mustapha stated that the ceremony aims to highlight the key achievements as an all women’s organization in “rendering their service to all communities irrespective of age, religion or ethnicity”.

Founded by 6 school girls who belonged to privileged but conservative orthodox Muslim families, with a strong vision to support the underprivileged, especially economically disempowered women, the MLSC, as an all-women-headed community service organization has had a successful journey spanning 5 decades. From its humble beginnings rooted in Galle, the organization has expanded rapidly, establishing its Head Office in Colombo and today is a nationally recognized Non-Government Organization and a leading women’s group.

Their activity range covers a broad spectrum including poverty alleviation, providing vocational training, assistance in times of national crisis and providing houses to the needy and displaced. The organization is well-recognized for its vocational training centres established across many cities and areas in the country including Colombo, Kahatowita, Warakapola, Panadura, Atulugama, Galle and Weligama providing women with numerous training courses on various subjects such as bakery, cookery, dressmaking, computer, beauty culture, and Spoken English.

The services rendered by the Vocational Education Centre are certified by the Vocational Education Commission and provide education in all three mediums. The training certificate is also endorsed by the Department of Social Services allowing women to be qualified both nationally and internationally. The training centre located in Colombo has been in operation successfully for the past 17 years. Mustapha also states that the organization has always been at the forefront of providing relief work during times of national crisis where it has helped build more than 220 houses for displaced families post Tsunami and victims of war. Dry food hampers were also distributed to poor-income families during lockdowns due to the Covid Pandemic.

In addition, the organization also carries out medical support programmes including maintaining wards at the Kalubowila Hospital, De Soysa Maternity Hospital for Women as well as the Castle Street hospital. She credits the progress of the organization to the “unity and dedication” of the committee and the members, compassionate donors, unwavering support and guidance of their well-wishers and the encouragement of their families. The group aspires to continue expanding its vocational training centres, their services and training to empower many more women in the island seeking to be economically independent and unburdened.

BY NUZLA RIZKIYA