Building Trip Sri Lanka 2026

Q: What will I actually be doing?

You will be helping with the final phase of construction at the Community College. Think painting, plastering, tiling and other finishing work. No construction experience is required.

Q: Who does Vebego Foundation work with in Sri Lanka?

We work with the Arthacharya Foundation , with whom we have previously realised several projects in Sri Lanka. A trusted partner who knows the local situation well.

Q: Will there be supervision during the trip?

Yes. Two Vebego supervisors will travel with the group, along with a local guide who has been involved in previous building trips. The guide knows the local circumstances well and can assist in an emergency, including medical situations.

Q: Is the trip guaranteed to go ahead?

The trip is subject to conditions. Travel via Dubai or Doha must be possible. We will make a final GO/No Go decision at the beginning of September. If the situation in the region is deemed unsafe at that point, the trip will not proceed. We will keep you informed throughout.

This year, we are going back to Sri Lanka.
Join us as a volunteer and play your part in completing a Community College that helps local people build towards a better future.

31 October - 8 November 2026
16 volunteer spots available, selected by a fair draw

Register now

Building Trip 2026

About the project

The Community College Project provides vocational education for people who have missed out on formal education opportunities. There are no restrictions on age, gender or educational background making it accessible to young people, women, school dropouts and older adults alike.

With poverty as the main criterion for participation, the project offers skills training that is directly linked to local market opportunities. It helps people find work, start small businesses and work towards greater independence. Your contribution helps bring this project one step closer to completion.

What you will be doing

You will be helping to finish a Community College in one of the poorest areas in Sri Lanka. Think painting, plastering, tiling and other finishing work. Side by side with local craftspeople and your fellow volunteers. We work together with the Arthacharya Foundation, our trusted partner in Sri Lanka, who has been closely involved in all of our previous projects.

FAQ about our Sri Lanka building trip

Registration & Selection

The building trip

Practical information

How are participants selected?

Participants are selected through a fair draw from all eligible applications. To ensure a diverse and balanced group, we consider job roles, Vebego companies and countries, as well as gender and age.

I have been on a building trip before. Can I apply?

No. Colleagues who have previously participated are not eligible this time. This gives others the opportunity to take part.

I was already on a waiting list from a previous building trip. Do I have priority?

No. The waiting lists from previous building trips date back several years. As we are starting a new chapter of the programme, we have chosen to begin with a fresh start and a fair selection process for everyone. This means that all applications will be treated equally, regardless of whether you were previously on a waiting list.

If you were on a previous waiting list and would still like to participate, please make sure to submit a new application.

When does registration close?

15 August 2026 is the deadline. Make sure you register in time, as the draw takes place after the closing date.

Do I need any experience?

No prior experience is required. However, you should be proactive, willing to get involved and have an English language level of at least B2. You should also be comfortable working in warm and humid conditions, with temperatures of around 30°C. In addition, rice is a staple part of the local diet and is typically served at breakfast, lunch and dinner, often accompanied by vegetables and chicken dishes.

Is travel insurance arranged?

Yes. Travel insurance is arranged by Vebego. You do not need to take out your own policy.

What about vaccinations?

You need to have the required vaccinations or be willing to get them before departure. If you do not yet have them, the costs are fully covered by Vebego Foundation.

How does the annual leave work?

The trip is 8 days from Saturday until Sunday. Vebego covers half of those working days, and you contribute the other half as annual leave.

Do you have dietary requirements or allergies?

In Sri Lanka, meals are served three times a day and typically consist of rice with chicken and vegetables. We follow local customs when it comes to food, which means dietary options will be limited. Cross-contamination cannot be guaranteed. As rice is a staple part of most meals, it is important that you are comfortable eating rice on a daily basis. If you have a severe allergy or specific dietary requirements, please make a note of this when you register.