The National
Council of YMCAs of Sri Lanka (NCYSL) successfully conducted a two-day youth
training programme on 11 and 12 July 2026 under its Young People Taking Action
to Prevent Gender-Based Violence (GBV) project. The training was held at Sanctuary
House, Pamunugama, bringing together young leaders from two local YMCAs to
strengthen their understanding of Gender-Based Violence and prepare them to
become advocates for positive change within their communities.
The programme
was attended by 10 young people from the YMCA of Pamunugama and 12 young people
from the YMCA of Negombo. Through interactive learning methods, participants
engaged in discussions, group work and reflective activities designed to build
a strong foundation in gender-related concepts and Gender-Based Violence.
Throughout the
training, participants explored key topics including the difference between Sex
and Gender, Gender Roles, Gender Norms, Gender Stereotypes, Gender Identity, Sexual
Orientation, Power, Equality and Equity, and the different forms of Gender-Based
Violence. Using the GBV Tree tool, participants analyzed the root causes,
contributing factors and consequences of GBV, helping them understand how
harmful social norms and unequal power relationships can lead to violence.
A key component
of the programme was looking beyond the training itself. Participants worked
together to discuss and design practical awareness activities that can be
implemented within their own YMCAs and extended to children, youth groups and
the wider communities where their YMCAs serve. These discussions encouraged
young people to think creatively about how they can contribute to preventing
Gender-Based Violence through education, dialogue and community engagement.
Beyond the
learning sessions, the programme also created opportunities for fellowship and
relationship building. The evening activities provided a relaxed environment
where participants from both YMCAs connected through games and conversations.These
informal interactions strengthened friendships, encouraged teamwork and
fostered a spirit of unity among the participants.
By
strengthening the knowledge and engagement of youth, the Young People Taking
Action to Prevent GBV project aims to empower young people to become active
contributors in creating safer, more inclusive and violence-free communities
across Sri Lanka.