National Council of YMCAs of Sri Lanka Equips Youth to Promote Safe and Respectful Communities

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.