Mission Lanka Launches Empower Her Legal Awareness Program in Polonnaruwa
The first program of the fifth chapter of the Empower Her initiative was successfully launched in Polonnaruwa, empowering women through legal awareness, human rights education, and gender equality advocacy.
A significant milestone was marked with the successful launch of the first program of the Fifth Chapter of the Empower Her: Ensuring Equal Rights for Every Woman and Girl project, held on 30 March 2026 at the Dimbulagala Divisional Secretary’s Auditorium, Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka.
This impactful Legal and Human Rights Workshop for Women was organized under the visionary leadership of Mr. Shantha Dalugamage, Founder & CEO of Stichting Mission Lanka, with generous funding support from the Embassy of the Netherlands in Sri Lanka & Maldives.
The workshop was designed to strengthen awareness, knowledge, and empowerment among women by focusing on essential rights-based topics that support justice, equality, and community leadership.
Key Focus Areas
Participants engaged in interactive discussions and awareness sessions covering:
- Women’s Rights
- Gender Equality
- Legal Protection
- Access to Justice
- Gender Sensitivity
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 5: Gender Equality
A major highlight of the program was the introduction to the global Stop Ecocide Law advocacy initiative, helping participants understand the connection between human rights, environmental protection, and sustainable justice.
The session encouraged women to become active leaders in building fair, peaceful, and environmentally responsible communities.
Community Participation
More than 50 women actively participated in the workshop, contributing to meaningful conversations, sharing personal experiences, and strengthening collective empowerment through knowledge exchange and practical discussion.
Expert Resource Contribution
Special appreciation is extended to Mr. Chandrasiri Witharange, Regional Coordinator (Ampara) of the Sri Lanka Human Rights Commission, who served as the workshop’s resource person.
His expert legal insights and practical guidance provided participants with valuable understanding of rights protection, legal awareness, and access to justice.
Certificates and Learning Resources
At the conclusion of the workshop:
- All participants received Certificates of Participation
- Educational book packs were distributed
- Learning materials were provided by United for Human Rights and Youth for Human Rights
These resources were intended to support continued learning, leadership development, and awareness-building beyond the workshop.
Program Coordination
The event was successfully coordinated by:
- Mr. Sanka Jayanath
- Mr. Chamith Kulasekara
Program Coordinators of Mission Lanka Foundation
Special appreciation is also extended to the staff of the Dimbulagala Divisional Secretary’s Office for their support and collaboration in hosting the initiative.
Strengthening Women’s Empowerment in Sri Lanka
This program further reinforces Mission Lanka Foundation’s ongoing commitment to advancing:
- Women’s Rights
- Gender Equality
- Legal Awareness
- Community Empowerment
- Social Justice
- Sustainable Development
Through initiatives like Empower Her, Mission Lanka continues creating meaningful social impact and strengthening communities across Sri Lanka.
