By Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs
On 17 September 2024, the donation agreement between Mr. Arun Kanchan and AIT President Prof. Pai-Chi Li was formally signed at AIT. Mr. Arun Kanchan a PhD candidate in Urban Innovation and Sustainability at the School of Environment, Resources and Development (SERD), and representative of the AIT International School (AITIS) Parent-Teacher Association has graciously agreed to support the renovation of the AITIS canteen. The planned enhancements to the AITIS canteen are to establish a better environment and ambiance for students by providing a multi-functional space for a wide range of activities.
AIT President Prof. Pai-Chi Li expressed appreciation to Mr. Arun for his generous support to the renovation of the AITIS canteen and his leadership in achieving the objective of improving the overall quality of students’ well-being and experience at AITIS. The President also welcomed the active participation of AITIS parents in such initiatives, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the school and the parent community to enhance student life.
Mr. Sanjeev Jayasinghe, Executive Director of the Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs appreciated the proactive approach taken by Mr. Arun for revitalizing the Parent-Teacher Association. He acknowledged Mr. Arun for not only taking the initiative to raise funds for this AITIS Canteen renovation project but also for setting an example by personally contributing a substantial amount. With the collective efforts of other parents who also contributed, and under the coordination of the AITIS principal and oversight of the Vice President for Administration, we are confident that the project is in capable hands and look forward to its successful completion soon.
Mr. Russell Rein, the Vice President for Administration expressed his gratitude to Mr. Arun, for being instrumental for the active participation of PTA members and encouraging other members through his actions. He also stated that it is truly fulfilling to witness the AITIS canteen come to life from scratch and know that this new space will be fully operational for students’ activities in October. He concluded by stating that AIT is incredibly grateful for your support, and the memory of your mother, in whose name this donation was made, will live on through this meaningful contribution for years to come.
Mr. Arun Kanchan stated that the contribution was made in memory of his mother, who passed away two years ago and was also a teacher. He shared memories of him waiting outside her classroom while she taught, watching children run around. He emphasized that supporting the renovation of the AITIS canteen is a legacy that connects his past with the future of AITIS students. It is a way for parents and students alike to learn the value of giving back to their alma mater.
Ms. Megha Gurung, Coordinator at AITIS, conveyed her gratitude on behalf of AITIS Principal Ms. Yemi, the entire AITIS staff, and most importantly, the students, who continue to express excitement and eagerness to utilize the new facility. She also mentioned that this space will not only serve as a canteen but also as a multi-purpose activity zone while protecting the students from heat, rain, and other adverse weather conditions. We are thrilled to see this long-held dream come to fruition.
Also present at the signing ceremony were Ms. Lucena D. Talaid, Senior Alumni Affairs Officer, and Mr. Bhaskaran Jacob, Senior Advancement and Alumni Affairs, from the Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs.
