RATNAPURA, Sri Lanka – 29 September 2026 — The first programme of the Ratnapura District’s Tenth Chapter under the “Empower Her: Ensuring Equal Rights for Every Woman and Girl” initiative was successfully held at the Ratnapura Divisional Secretariat Auditorium, bringing together more than 50 women for a workshop focused on women’s rights, legal awareness and access to justice.
The programme was organised under the leadership and vision of Mr. Shantha Dalugamage, Founder and CEO of Stichting Mission Lanka, with funding from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
The initiative aims to strengthen women’s understanding of their rights, promote gender equality and encourage meaningful participation in community development and decision-making.
Strengthening Women’s Rights and Legal Awareness
The workshop addressed key issues affecting women and girls, including women’s rights, gender equality, legal protection and access to justice. Participants were encouraged to develop a clearer understanding of their rights and the legal mechanisms available to protect them.
Discussions also highlighted the importance of gender sensitivity and the role of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5: Gender Equality, in advancing equal opportunities and promoting the empowerment of women and girls.
Through interactive discussions and the sharing of experiences, participants had opportunities to strengthen their knowledge, build confidence and consider ways to contribute to positive change within their communities.
Connecting Human Rights with Environmental Protection
A notable component of the programme was an introduction to the global advocacy initiative for the Stop Ecocide Law. This session highlighted the relationship between environmental protection, human rights and the importance of safeguarding the environment for present and future generations.
Participants were encouraged to recognise how community engagement, awareness and responsible leadership can contribute to a more just, peaceful and sustainable society.
Expert Guidance from the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka
The workshop’s resource person was Mr. P. W. Chandrasiri, Regional Coordinator for Ampara of the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka. He shared valuable legal insights and practical guidance to help participants better understand women’s rights, legal protection and access to justice.
His contribution supported the programme’s educational objectives by connecting key human rights principles with issues relevant to women’s everyday lives and their participation in society.
Educational Materials and Certificates for Participants
At the conclusion of the workshop, all participants received Certificates of Participation in recognition of their involvement in the programme.
Participants also received educational book packs containing the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). These materials were provided by United for Human Rights and Youth for Human Rights, supporting continued learning and greater awareness of internationally recognised human rights principles.
The distribution of these resources was intended to encourage participants to continue learning beyond the workshop and to share their knowledge within their families and communities.
Programme Coordination and Local Support
The programme was coordinated by Mr. Sanka Jayanath and Mr. Anusha Indrajith, Programme Coordinators of Stichting Mission Lanka.
Stichting Mission Lanka also extends its appreciation to the staff of the Ratnapura Divisional Secretariat for their valuable support in providing the venue and facilitating the successful implementation of the programme.
Continuing the Empower Her Mission
The Ratnapura programme represents a further step in the continuing efforts of Stichting Mission Lanka to promote women’s rights, strengthen legal awareness, advance gender equality and support community participation across Sri Lanka.
By creating opportunities for women to learn, exchange experiences and better understand their rights, the Empower Her initiative seeks to strengthen confidence, leadership and access to justice.
Empower Her is committed to helping build communities where every woman and girl can live with dignity, equality, safety and opportunity.
Through continued collaboration with public institutions, human rights organisations, local authorities and community partners, the initiative aims to contribute to a more inclusive and rights-respecting Sri Lanka.
