Sunday, August 30, 2026

Empowering the Next Generation: Youth Action to Prevent GBV in Sri Lanka

YMCA of Pamunugama and the YMCA of Negombo, in partnership with the National Council of YMCAs of Sri Lanka recently hosted a comprehensive two-session training program engaging 50 young people under the Youth Action to Prevent GBV Project. Held on August 30 and September 5, the initiative brought together a diverse group of participants representing the Sri Vimukthi Youth Group, SYU, Shramabhimani, and both local YMCAs. The first session laid a crucial foundation by exploring basic concepts of gender, sex, and related topics through interactive study sessions, dynamic group presentations, and engaging hands-on activities designed to spark critical thinking and open dialogue among the participants.

Building upon this foundational knowledge, the second session delved directly into Gender-Based Violence (GBV), helping participants deeply understand the issue and its societal impacts using an insightful "GBV tree" model to visualize root causes, manifestations, and consequences. To measure the tangible impact of these workshops, facilitators implemented pre- and post-evaluations, which impressively revealed that the overall knowledge level of the attendees surged from 50% to 78%. At the conclusion of the program, all young people who successfully completed both sessions were awarded certificates of participation to recognize their dedication and commitment to creating safer communities.

Building on this momentum, organizers and participants mutually agreed to conduct further training sessions as the project continues to expand its reach and depth in the coming months. By equipping these young leaders with the right tools, knowledge, and collaborative spaces, the initiative is laying a strong groundwork for sustainable advocacy and a future free from gender-based violence.

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Programme Calendar

  • 27 October, 2015 - Reading Camp at Peralanda
  • 24 October, 2015 - Rover Phase 01 Training
  • 15 October, 2015 - Pre-School Fair
  • 04 October, 2015 - Children's Day
  • 19 September, 2015 - Ape Sindu Patiya Fund Raising Event
  • 12 September, 2015 - Day Camp at Colombo YMCA
  • 24-26 August, 2015 - Scout Camp at Riverstan
  • 31 July, 2015 - Prefects Training Workshop
  • 31 July, 2015 - Pre-School Exhibition
  • 27 June, 2015 - Pre-school Trip