Atlas Axillia, in partnership with the Western Province Department of Education, hosted its ‘Guru Garu’ teacher appreciation programme at The Kingsbury, Colombo, on October 13.
The event brought together more than 250 teachers to celebrate their dedication and recognise their valuable contribution to children’s education, learning and personal development.
The initiative highlighted Atlas’s ongoing commitment to the teaching community and its purpose of making learning fun for every child.
The programme recognised the vital role educators play in creating supportive classroom environments where children are encouraged to ask questions, explore new ideas and participate confidently. Beyond academic success, teachers help students discover their abilities, build self-confidence and develop a positive attitude towards learning.
‘Guru Garu’ served as an opportunity to express appreciation for the commitment, care and guidance teachers bring to their profession. It also celebrated their important place within the broader educational community, where teachers, parents and students work together to support children throughout their learning journey. For Atlas, fostering strong relationships with this community remains an essential part of understanding and addressing children’s evolving educational needs.
This year’s sunflower theme symbolised the special relationship between teachers and students. Teachers were represented as the sun, offering the knowledge, guidance and encouragement children need to grow and flourish, while students were symbolised by sunflowers reaching towards the light. The concept also featured Atlas’s signature sunflower-yellow pencil, connecting a familiar classroom essential with the educators who guide children through their early learning experiences.
Commenting on the initiative, Atlas Axillia Country Head Indrajith Binduhewa said, “A teacher’s impact is often seen in everyday moments: helping a child understand something for the first time, encouraging them to speak up or giving them the confidence to keep trying. Guru Garu is our way of thanking educators for the patience and commitment behind those moments. As a brand whose purpose is to make learning fun, Atlas values the people who make that experience possible.”