Hutch covers 95% percent rural schools, 95% country’s population: CEO

Pic by Kithsiri de Mel

By Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama
In a groundbreaking initiative, Hutch recently declared the coverage of 95 percent of schools in rural provincial areas and 95 percent of the country’s population.
To positively impact children and the education sector, Hutch has taken a step forward by distributing 130 electric bicycles (e-bikes) through an exclusive partnership with the Ministry of Education to rural schools and their staff across Sri Lanka.

Saumitra Gupta, CEO of Hutchison Telecommunication Lanka (Pvt) Ltd (Hutch) said they align with the Education Minister’s vision for rural education. 
Accordingly, Hutch gifted e-bikes to 130 rural schools. 
While giving e-bikes we enable the transport in the rural areas. This would be a permanent help and gift to the rural community, he said.
“Our fight has just begun—the battle against illiteracy and inadequate educational infrastructure in rural areas. Providing e-bikes is a step towards a long-term partnership with the minister and the ministry. Our goal extends to ensuring clean water and sanitation for all rural schools. We aim to collaborate with relevant ministries, working hand in hand with the Education Minister for a comprehensive impact,” the CEO added
“Hutchison is committed to achieving zero carbon neutrality by 2030, a global effort that includes the steps we are taking here in Sri Lanka”.
The Hutch team is also working on many projects in relation to agriculture and infrastructure in rural areas.