The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development (MoIED) have entered into a strategic partnership to strengthen institutional and technical capacity for industrial transformation. 

The collaboration includes the establishment of an Expert Support Unit designed to accelerate industrial development, enhance entrepreneurship and SME competitiveness, and advance evidence‑based policymaking.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed recently between J. M. Thilaka Jayasundara, Secretary of the Ministry of Entrepreneurship Development, and Azusa Kubota, UNDP Resident Representative in Sri Lanka, in the presence of Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe.

The Expert Support Unit will be embedded within the Ministry, providing high‑quality technical, analytical, and coordination expertise across priority areas such as SME development, industrial zone development, trade and policy, digital transformation, data analytics, skills development, and international relations.

Sri Lanka’s industrial sector is a key driver of economic growth, employment generation, and export competitiveness. As the Ministry’s mandate expands to address emerging opportunities and challenges, the new unit is expected to deliver agile and targeted expertise to strengthen programme implementation, foster policy innovation, improve stakeholder engagement, and enhance strategic coordination.

Commenting on the Government of Sri Lanka’s vision on this area, Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Chathuranga Abeysinghe stated, “Sri Lanka’s ambitions for industrial growth, entrepreneurship development, and export competitiveness require agile institutions equipped with the right expertise and innovative approaches. This partnership with UNDP represents an important step towards strengthening our capacity to develop and implement forward-looking policies, support our entrepreneurs and industries, and deliver impactful solutions that contribute to national economic transformation. The Expert Support Unit will help us accelerate key priorities while strengthening the Ministry’s ability to respond effectively to emerging challenges and opportunities.” 

Drawing on UNDP’s experience supporting innovative government capacity-building mechanisms, the initiative will facilitate the rapid deployment of technical specialists while strengthening systems for project management, monitoring, reporting, and performance measurement. The partnership also seeks to mobilize support from development partners and private sector stakeholders to ensure sustainable and impactful results. 

Adding to UNDP’s technical expertise, Resident Representative of UNDP in Sri Lanka, Azusa KUBOTA, highlighted, “UNDP has been proud to support Sri Lanka’s reform agenda through innovative and agile institutional support. We are pleased to partner with the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development in establishing the Expert Support Unit, a results-oriented mechanism that brings specialized expertise directly into government systems. The Ministry’s reform agenda has the potential to create jobs, strengthen Sri Lanka’s integration into global value chains, and accelerate sustainable economic growth. We look forward to supporting the capacities needed to drive this transformation.” 

The Expert Support Unit is expected to comprise a multidisciplinary team of specialists embedded within the Ministry, supporting strategic initiatives while fostering knowledge transfer and strengthening institutional capabilities over time. (Newswire)

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The Ministry of Environment, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has handed over advanced laboratory equipment worth LKR 204 million (USD 663,000) to six key national institutions, strengthening Sri Lanka’s capacity to detect, monitor, and regulate hazardous chemicals and waste. 

The handover, conducted under the Global Environment Facility (GEF)‑funded project on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Pesticides in the Agricultural Sector and Mercury and Waste in the Healthcare Sector in Sri Lanka, marks a major step in enhancing the country’s scientific and regulatory infrastructure. 

The ceremony was held at the Ministry of Environment and brought together senior government officials, technical institutions, development partners, and stakeholders. 

The equipment was officially handed over to six beneficiary institutions: the Central Environmental Authority, University of Sabaragamuwa Sri Lanka, Department of Agriculture, Sri Lanka Customs, Consumer Affairs Authority and Government Analyst’s Department.  The handover was accompanied by the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and a presentation on mechanisms to ensure the long-term technical and financial sustainability of the equipment.

The state-of-the-art analytical instruments, laboratory support equipment, consumables, and chemicals will significantly strengthen Sri Lanka’s ability to detect, analyse, monitor, and regulate hazardous substances, including mercury, Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), and other chemicals of concern. The investment is expected to enhance regulatory oversight across the lifecycle of chemicals, from import and border control to market surveillance, environmental monitoring, and scientific research. 

Delivering remarks at the event, Mr. Anton Jayakody, Hon. Deputy Minister of Environment, underscored the national significance of the initiative. ‘’With the update of the National Environmental Act, Sri Lanka is committed to ensuring the environmentally sound management of hazardous chemicals and waste. The equipment handed over today will strengthen the scientific and regulatory capabilities of institutions that play a critical role in protecting public health, and preserving our natural environment. This investment will deliver lasting benefits for the country and reinforce our journey towards a greener and more resilient future.”

Speaking at the event, Mr. K.R. Uduwawala, Secretary, Ministry of Environment, emphasized the importance of strengthening institutional capacities to safeguard human health and the environment. “Sri Lanka is a Party to the Basel, Rotterdam, Stockholm, and Minamata Conventions. As the National Focal Point for the Basel, Stockholm, and Minamata Conventions, the Ministry of Environment has a responsibility to ensure that the country fulfills its obligations under these multilateral environmental agreements and our foremost obligation is to safeguard human health and the environment from the adverse impacts of hazardous chemicals and wastes’’ 

Commenting on UNDP’s leadership in this area, Ms. Marina Ten, Officer in Charge, UNDP Sri Lanka, highlighted, “This handover is about far more than the delivery of equipment. It is about empowering national institutions with the tools, knowledge, and systems required to protect communities and ecosystems from the harmful impacts of hazardous chemicals. Through this partnership with the Ministry of Environment and the support of the Global Environment Facility, we are helping Sri Lanka strengthen its capacity to meet global environmental commitments while advancing sustainable development priorities.”

The project is being implemented by the Ministry of Environment under the National Implementation Modality, with technical support from UNDP Sri Lanka and funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF). With a total budget of USD 5.04 million, the project seeks to strengthen Sri Lanka’s chemicals and waste management framework, enhance institutional capacities, establish a centralized chemicals database, promote green procurement and financing mechanisms, and support compliance with the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants and the Minamata Convention on Mercury.

The equipment procurement was undertaken through a transparent and competitive international bidding process and is complemented by a sustainability mechanism that promotes shared use of equipment, cross-agency collaboration, and long-term maintenance arrangements. These measures are expected to maximize the value of the investment and ensure its continued contribution to national environmental management efforts.

As Sri Lanka continues to address emerging environmental challenges, the strengthened laboratory infrastructure will play a vital role in supporting research, enforcement, monitoring, and policymaking to protect both people and the environment from the risks posed by hazardous chemicals and waste. (Newswire)

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The Registrar General’s Department (RGD), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the World Health Organization (WHO), through the OneRegistry initiative, has concluded a leadership programme aimed at driving Sri Lanka’s digital transformation of civil registration systems. 

Held in Kandy under the banner RGD to Digital Excellence (RGD2DX), the initiative trained 61 senior officials in adaptive leadership, systems thinking, and institutional change management, equipping them to guide the modernization of Sri Lanka’s Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) system. 

The programme forms part of broader efforts to build a digitally enabled, integrated, and citizen-centric civil registration system that delivers more efficient and accessible services to the public.

The RGD2DX programme was conducted through two residential cohorts held in Kandy bringing together 61 members of the senior management of the Registrar General’s Department, including senior administrators and decision-makers who will play a pivotal role in driving institutional transformation in the years ahead.

Facilitated by international experts from Malaysia, the programme introduced participants to adaptive leadership, systems thinking, institutional change management, and approaches to leading organizations through periods of digital transition. Through interactive discussions, experiential learning exercises, and collaborative problem-solving activities, participants explored practical strategies to strengthen organizational resilience while maintaining public trust and service quality.

Recognizing that sustainable institutional transformation extends beyond residential learning, the programme also included a series of virtual follow-up clinics conducted over a three-month period, enabling participants to reflect on the practical application of their learnings, share experiences and challenges, and receive continued guidance from facilitators.

Participants highlighted the practical value of the programme in supporting the Department’s ongoing transition towards digital systems.

Dasun Hettiarachchi, Additional District Registrar – Matale, said, “When moving from the traditional system to the new system, we discussed the gaps and obstacles, as well as how to resolve them, and received useful advice.”

Similarly, Kumudu Dissanayake, Additional District Registrar (Legal Division), noted, “The higher management and the RGD staff who participated in this training have been able to adopt new methods, and we are highly motivated. This has been very beneficial to our department.”

The RGD2DX programme underscores the importance of investing not only in digital systems and technology, but also in the people responsible for leading change. By strengthening leadership capacities within the senior management of the Registrar General’s Department, the initiative contributes towards building a more agile, responsive, and future-ready institution capable of delivering improved public services to citizens across Sri Lanka.

As Sri Lanka continues its digital transformation journey, initiatives such as RGD2DX demonstrate the importance of cultivating adaptive public sector leadership that can effectively navigate complexity, champion innovation, and drive sustainable institutional change for the benefit of all Sri Lankans. (Newswire)

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The Government of Japan has reaffirmed its commitment to Sri Lanka’s development journey by allocating USD 2.6 million under its Japanese Supplementary Budget (JSB) for two new projects. 

The initiatives aim to strengthen climate resilience in vulnerable communities and advance gender equality, underscoring Japan’s continued partnership in supporting Sri Lanka’s social and economic progress.

These initiatives, together with the Government of Sri Lanka and implemented in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sri Lanka, will contribute significantly to sustainable recovery from the disaster and inclusive development across the country.

According to the UNDP, the first project, titled ‘Net-Zero, Nature-Positive Dairy – Climate-Smart Dairy Value Chains through Energy Transition & Nature-Based Solutions’, establishes a Climate-Smart Dairy (CSD) ecosystem, integrating inclusive green technologies, sustainable farming practices, and market-driven solutions to reduce emissions, enhance dairy yield, and build adaptive capacity among vulnerable communities. 

Together with the Ministry of Rural Development and Social Security, Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Energy for overall policy guidance, the initiative aims to directly benefit 750 smallholder farmers and indirectly reach over 5,000 people including family members, aspiring youth agri-entrepreneurs, veterinary officers, animal health professionals, local milk collectors, and other community members-particularly women and youth in the climate-vulnerable districts of Kilinochchi in the Northern Province and Nuwara Eliya in the Central Province, contributing to long-term livelihood and human security. 

With a funding envelope of USD 1.5 Million, the project builds on evidence and promising practices from previous initiatives, demonstrating the viability of renewable energy-based modernisation approaches for rural communities.

The second project, titled ‘Gender Responsive Advancement and Operational Enhancement of Women Deminers in the Northern and Eastern Provinces of Sri Lanka’, will further enhance the capacity and operational effectiveness of women deminers in Sri Lanka’s Northern and Eastern Provinces, with a particular focus on Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu. 

These districts remain among the most vulnerable in the country, according to UNDP’s 2023 Multidimensional Vulnerability Index, with vulnerability levels stand at 70% in Kilinochchi and 72% in Mullaitivu. 

The USD 1.16 Million project in partnership with the Ministry of Housing, Construction, and Water Supply, and in close collaboration with the existing mine clearance operators, empowers women to play a pivotal role in mine action, and aims to further promote greater gender equality and community development in regions deeply affected by multiple crises, including the past conflict, disaster and economic constraints. 

The project will support the deployment of advanced technologies to enhance the precision and efficiency of mine action operations. Through these efforts, the project aims to support greater efficiency in land clearance, facilitate resettlement, and enable sustainable livelihood recovery for the communities in the North and East of Sri Lanka.

According to a UNDP statement, these ongoing partnerships build on evidence and promising practices, reaffirming UNDP and the Government of Japan’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s transition to a climate-resilient, inclusive, and sustainable agricultural sector, empowering smallholder farmers and vulnerable communities to build resilient livelihoods and contribute to the nation’s net-zero development goals.

The projects strengthen the capacity of women deminers in vulnerable districts, supporting enhanced safer land clearance, resettlement, and sustainable livelihoods, while enabling smallholder farmers to adopt climate-smart practices and green technologies, contributing to increased yields, reduced emissions, and enhanced human security. 

Together, these projects empower marginalised communities and drive progress towards Sri Lanka’s net-zero development goals and a more inclusive, sustainable future, the UNDP added. (Newswire)

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Asia and the Pacific are facing mounting socio‑economic pressures as the ripple effects of the recent military escalation in the Middle East strain economies and households across the region, according to a new UNDP assessment.

A preliminary analysis released by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) reports that, despite a temporary ceasefire, heightened volatility in energy, trade, and labour markets is eroding incomes, jobs, and social protection systems.

The report warns that millions are at risk of falling into poverty, with women, low‑income households, migrants, and small enterprises among the most vulnerable.

The report synthesizes impact and needs assessments covering 36 countries, complemented by macroeconomic simulations, and provides a regionwide outlook as well as how different countries are currently responding to these pressures.

Rising fuel and freight costs are the most immediate pressure point.  With over 80 per cent of crude and LNG transiting the Strait of Hormuz destined for Asian markets, the region is experiencing rapid pass-through of higher pricing on transport, electricity, food and fertilizer.

The report estimates that 8.8 million people are at risk of falling into poverty. Output losses could range from US$97 billion to US$299 billion, equivalent to between 0.3 and 0.8 per cent of regional GDP.

In Iran, the estimated decline in the Human Development Index is equivalent to one to one and a half years of progress lost. In other countries, human development losses under a short‑duration scenario range from weeks to months of foregone development progress, but could escalate significantly if disruptions persist, particularly in economies reliant on remittances, imported energy and food. Losses are most pronounced in South Asia, reflecting higher exposure to income and price shocks and more limited policy buffers, while East and Southeast Asia experience comparatively smaller setbacks.

Governments across the region have responded rapidly to cushion the domestic shocks through fuel price stabilization, targeted subsidies, limits on transport, and early adaptive measures such as diversifying energy supply and improving energy efficiency. In some countries, responses have included nationwide energy saving campaigns and temporary changes to public‑sector work arrangements to ease pressure on fuel consumption and public budgets.

“The strain this war is placing across Asia-Pacific is already visible. It is reaching households faster than policy can adjust.  Despite the recent ceasefire, the resulting prolonged volatility in global markets is imposing increasingly difficult tradeoffs between stabilizing prices, supporting vulnerable households, and maintaining essential public services and market investments. At the same time, we see important opportunities for countries to accelerate long‑term resilience through adaptive social protection, stronger local and regional value chains, and diversified energy and food systems,” said Kanni Wignaraja, UN Assistant Secretary‑General and UNDP Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific.

The report is part of a series of socio-economic analyses produced by UNDP to support policymakers unpack the human development consequences of the current conflict, and identify options for a development response as a first line of defence.

“This is not about regular economic management measures, but a broader test of whether countries can look ahead and adapt fast to protect human development and human security gains in a far more volatile and insecure world,” Wignaraja said.

Full report : https://www.undp.org/asia-pacific/publications/military-escalation-middle-east-human-development-impacts-across-asia-and-pacific (Newswire)

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The Government of Korea and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have launched a new $4.7 million initiative to improve municipal solid waste management in Sri Lanka, aiming to deliver low-carbon, inclusive, and climate-resilient solutions.

Funded by Korea’s Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment through the Korea Environmental Industry and Technology Institute (KEITI), the three-year project—“Scale-up and Sustain the Low-Carbon Municipal Solid Waste Management and Resource Recovery in Sri Lanka”—will be implemented by UNDP Sri Lanka in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government.

The project targets two local authorities in the Central and Sabaragamuwa provinces with demonstration sites in Gampola and Balangoda. Technologies such as anaerobic digestion, pyrolysis, and vermicomposting will be deployed to reduce over 269,000 metric tons of CO₂-equivalent emissions over a 10-year period.

Strategic waste management planning will also be expanded to four provinces—Northwestern, Central, Sabaragamuwa, and Southern—with a focus on decentralized systems, green financing, digital innovation, and gender inclusion.

Sri Lanka produces over 10,000 tons of municipal solid waste daily, with only half collected and minimal amounts properly treated. The initiative aims to address systemic gaps in technology, funding, and institutional capacity, especially in the wake of recent disasters like Cyclone Ditwah.

Korean and UNDP officials emphasized the project’s role in reducing emissions, strengthening local institutions, creating green jobs, and advancing Sri Lanka’s commitments under the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals. (Newswire)

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A new United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) assessment released on Wednesday reports that nearly all communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka suffered damage to homes, roads and other critical infrastructure.

The report further underscores the scale of recovery needs and the urgency of accessible financing for the most vulnerable.

The qualitative assessment, based on key informant interviews with 510 local officials, business leaders, and community representatives across 85 divisional secretariat divisions in the 22 most affected districts, found that 95% of respondents reported damage to residential, transport, industrial or community infrastructure within their area, with housing and roads most frequently cited.

Cyclone Ditwah struck Sri Lanka on 26 November 2025 and is the country’s deadliest disaster since the 2004 tsunami. An initial UNDP geospatial analysis released in December 2025 estimated that floodwaters inundated nearly 20% of the country’s land area, exposing approximately 2.3 million people. 

Building on this analysis, the qualitative assessment findings point to deep and widespread recovery needs, with many communities lacking the materials, labour, and financing required to rebuild.

“We commend the Government of Sri Lanka’s announcement on plans to provide LKR 95 billion in support to MSMEs, including a 3% concessional loan scheme, which is a crucial step in accelerating recovery. At the same time, it is essential that we prioritize support for the many that operate outside formal systems—those who often remain unseen yet form the backbone of the local economy,” said Azusa Kubota, UNDP Resident Representative in Sri Lanka.

“The RAPIDA assessment underscores the importance of moving beyond short-term humanitarian assistance toward a comprehensive approach to early recovery and resilience-building. This is vital to ensure vulnerable populations do not fall back into poverty and get trapped in the cycle. Investing in recovery efforts that strengthen local economies—including targeted support for the informal sector—will be central to building disaster resilience and secure sustainable livelihoods for all.”

UNDP’s assessment highlights widespread economic fallout. A large majority of respondents (93%) reported that livelihoods had been affected in their area, citing crop and livestock losses, job losses and business closures, including in the informal sector, which employs a large share of Sri Lanka’s workforce. Key recovery needs include support for micro enterprises, access to low-interest loans and capital for small businesses to rebuild their infrastructure and stocks.

More than half of those interviewed reported that vulnerable groups, such as older people, persons with disabilities and female-headed households, were among those affected. The most common coping mechanisms included government aid or support (reported by 76% of respondents), followed by assistance from international organisations at 45%, and informal lending at 40%. These patterns point to rising household debt stress, with implications for both household welfare and the pace of recovery for micro and small enterprises.   

Respondents also identified shortages of construction materials, limited availability of skilled labour, and funding constraints as obstacles to rebuilding damaged infrastructure, while citing delays in approvals and weak coordination between institutions as slowing recovery efforts.

Environmental and health risks emerged as additional concerns, with local officials reporting water contamination, soil erosion, and damage to ecosystems, pointing to longer-term climate and public health impacts.

Sri Lanka, like other countries in South Asia, is increasingly exposed to extreme weather events linked to climate change, including floods, cyclones and prolonged droughts.

UNDP said the findings highlight the need for continued support to restore infrastructure and livelihoods, particularly for informal workers and small businesses, while strengthening the climate and disaster resilience of enterprises and industries as the country transitions from emergency relief to recovery and reconstruction. (Newswire)

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The United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) satellite data shows 2.3 million Sri Lankans were exposed and 1.1 million hectares were flooded due to Cyclone Ditwah.

According to the new geospatial analysis from the UNDP, an estimated 2.3 million people, more than half of them women, were living in areas flooded by Cyclone Ditwah that struck Sri Lanka on 28 November.

The analysis further shows floodwaters from the cyclone inundated more than 1.1 million hectares,  almost 20 per cent of the country’s land area, and caused significant damage to homes, infrastructure and essential services.

The UNDP analysis, which draws from disaster-related data from the Government of Sri Lanka, provides a nationwide picture of the cyclone’s impact, which is being termed as one of the worst flooding disasters to hit Sri Lanka in decades. 

Over half of the people in the flooded areas were living in households already facing multiple vulnerabilities before the cyclone, including unstable income, high debt, and limited ability to cope with disasters. Under these conditions, even moderate shocks can turn into long-lasting setbacks.

The floodwaters reached nearly 720,000 buildings, about one in every twelve buildings in the country. Over 16,000 kilometres of roads, enough to circle the island’s coastline more than twelve times, were exposed to flooding. Similarly, over 278 km of railway tracks and 480 bridges were located in flooded areas.

“Cyclone Ditwah struck regions already weakened by years of economic stress,” said Azusa Kubota, UNDP Resident Representative in Sri Lanka.

The exposed population includes approximately 1.2 million women, 522,000 children and 263,000 older persons, with over 60% of all exposed people living in just two districts (Colombo and Gampaha). Many in affected areas across the country live in high-risk, disaster-prone areas, requiring a permanent solution. This concentration of exposure is placing heavy pressure on essential services.

“Where high flooding and high vulnerability overlap, recovery is likely to be slower and more costly. Early action in these locations is critical,” Kubota said.

In the country’s hilly inland, the cyclone triggered around 1,200 landslides. These events can isolate at-risk communities by disrupting access to essential services such as health care and slowing rescue operations. 

“Cyclone Ditwah is a stark reminder of how fast compounding crises can unfold,” said Devanand Ramiah, Chief of Crisis Readiness, Response, and Recovery at UNDP’s Crisis Bureau.

Working closely with the national authorities and partners, UNDP is calling for scaled-up early recovery support to help communities get back on their feet. This includes restoring essential services, supporting affected households, particularly women, children, and older persons, repairing key transport and service-delivery infrastructure, and strengthening local systems for future climate resilience. 

“After one of its worst economic crises and a slow but steady recovery underway, Sri Lanka cannot shoulder more debt to cover the costs of a rebuild from this massive natural disaster”, said Azusa Kubota. “International partners must step up with affordable financing and innovative instruments that enable a rapid recovery and rebuilding with greater resilience, without the country falling off the debt cliff. UNDP, with the UN family, is working with the government, our partners and communities to support those most affected through immediate relief and early recovery efforts. The ‘rebuild stronger and better’ is essential and will take time.”

Analysis and a full set of data are available here: Mapping the initial impact of Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka (Newswire)

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The Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) has unveiled the Case-File Tracking System to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of addressing bribery and corruption-related matters in Sri Lanka.

The Case-File Tracking System has been launched in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sri Lanka, with funding from the Government of Japan through the Japanese Supplementary Budget (JSB).

The new system, inaugurated at CIABOC premises in Colombo, was launched in the presence of Justice Neil Iddawala, Chairperson of CIABOC; Mr. K.B. Rajapakshe and Mr. Chethiya Gunasekara, Commissioners of CIABOC; Mr. KAMOSHIDA Naoaki, Minister/Deputy Head of Mission from the Embassy of Japan, Mr. Ranga Dissanayake, Director General of CIABOC; and Ms. Azusa Kubota, Resident Representative, UNDP in Sri Lanka.

The Case-File Tracking System is a major step in advancing Sri Lanka’s efforts to strengthen integrity, transparency, and accountability in governance. The success of the case tracking system project is deeply rooted in the ongoing project on ‘Promoting Economic Governance through Anti-Corruption Policy Support’.

The system introduces a modern digital platform that streamlines case management, improves workflow efficiency, and enables timely, transparent investigations. By strengthening CIABOC’s institutional capacity, the system enhances the Commission’s ability to fulfil its constitutional mandate, while contributing directly to the Government’s ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ vision for transparent and accountable governance.

The primary purpose of the Case-File Tracking Solution is to modernise and streamline the Commission’s approach to handling and managing its investigations and operational processes, including key objectives such as efficient case management and optimised workflow; enhanced accountability and coordination; supporting real-time reporting, access, and collaboration tools; among others. 

Speaking at the launch, Justice Neil Iddawala, Chairperson of CIABOC, noted, “We are not simply unveiling a software tool.  We are embracing a paradigm shift in how we manage the critical flow of information, records, and case files that define the core of our institution. In an era where information is supreme, where the ability to access, track and manage data effectively is directly tied to public confidence, our Case Tracking System will undoubtedly be a game-changer for CIABOC.”

Both the Embassy of Japan and UNDP have played crucial roles in providing technical and financial support, sharing global best practices, and building local capacity.

Echoing this sentiment, Ms. Azusa Kubota, Resident Representative, UNDP in Sri Lanka, commented, “Digitalisation of the case tracking system is aligned with the country’s ambition to improve efficiency and transparency of service delivery. This system empowers CIABOC to further strengthen accountability and transparency around the ways in which it manages cases. Through the partnership generously funded by the Government of Japan, UNDP has been able to provide CIABOC with technical support, share global best practices, and build local systems and capacities that are required to implement the NAP for the effective prevention of corruption and the promotion of integrity, transparency and accountability across public institutions.”

Highlighting the importance of anti-corruption efforts, Mr. KAMOSHIDA Naoaki, Minister/Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Japan, added, “We believe the new case tracking system will further enhance CIABOC’s capacity for investigation.  Eradicating corruption is important not only for restoring public trust in the government but also for increasing foreign investment, which will contribute to the economic revitalisation of Sri Lanka.  Japan remains committed to assisting Sri Lanka’s efforts in tackling corruption and strengthening good governance.”

The launch of the case tracking system is part of Sri Lanka’s wider digital transformation in public governance. By embedding digital tools in institutions, the country is reducing inefficiencies, minimising delays, and creating stronger safeguards against corruption. This initiative complements a broader suite of digital reforms supported by UNDP and development partners, including the e-Record Room system at CIABOC, the recently launched e-Procurement Monitoring System, and the forthcoming e-Asset Declaration platform. This initiative also contributes to the IMF recommendations to strengthen the investigation and prosecution of corruption cases by enhancing the maintenance of comprehensive and updated case statistics and improving case flow management.

To ensure the effective operationalisation and long-term sustainability of the system, the Government of Japan, together with UNDP, also handed over hardware infrastructure equipment valued at USD 202,000 to operationalise the case system. In addition, targeted training was provided to CIABOC staff, strengthening their expertise to fully leverage the benefits of the system.

Through these initiatives, CIABOC is embracing digitalisation as a driver of change, ensuring independence, transparency, and accountability in its work, while aligning with Sri Lanka’s digital governance agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). (Newswire)

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TRACE – Sri Lanka recently hosted TRACE Innovation Connect 2024 at TRACE Expert City, marking a significant step towards building collaboration between the Sri Lankan tech diaspora and their homeland. Organised in partnership with Work in Sri Lanka, the event successfully gathered over 100 expatriates, tech leaders, entrepreneurs, foreign delegates, and diplomats. This gathering aimed to enable a ‘brain gain’ for Sri Lanka by encouraging the migration of technical know-how and inspiring the Sri Lankan tech diaspora to actively contribute to the nation’s innovation and economic resilience. The event also showcased Sri Lanka’s evolving tech landscape and the country’s untapped potential on the global stage.

The agenda featured a lineup of highly respected speakers, each offering unique insights into the tech and innovation ecosystem. Dr. Sankalpa Gamwarige, Founding Director & Advisor at TRACE – Sri Lanka, welcomed the gathering and explained the purpose and significance of the event. Dr. Bandula Wijay, CEO and President of LeoMed, took the stage to discuss the intricacies of high-tech biomedical discoveries and the processes behind breakthrough innovations. Dr. Harsha Subasinghe, President and CEO of Codegen International, emphasised the critical need for Sri Lanka to focus on high-tech innovations to maintain a competitive edge, while showcasing the significant advancements his company has brought to the nation’s innovation landscape. Ranil Vitharana, Chief Innovation Officer and Chief Technology Officer at MAS Holdings, shared the inspiring journey of his company in achieving 100 patents, illustrating the potential for innovation within Sri Lanka.

Azusa Kubota, Resident Representative at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Sri Lanka, pointed out the significance of initiatives like TRACE Innovation Connect and reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to supporting TRACE’s mission. Nayana Samaranayake, the founder of Work in Sri Lanka, spoke passionately about the importance of encouraging the Sri Lankan diaspora to return and contribute their expertise to the national economy. He also outlined the various ways in which Work in Sri Lanka supports this crucial process.

The 10th anniversary of TRACE – Sri Lanka was also celebrated during the event, marked by the ceremonial cutting of a cake by the Founders of TRACE. Following this, Heminda Jayaweera, Executive Director at TRACE – Sri Lanka, introduced the audience to the National Startup Accelerator Program, highlighting TRACE’s pivotal role in enabling entrepreneurship by providing startups with essential resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to drive innovation on a national scale. Finally, Clautilda Arockiam, Board Member at TRACE – Sri Lanka, emphasised the necessity of building a sustainable tech ecosystem in Sri Lanka, advocating for a reduction in reliance on traditional exports and an embrace of innovation. She issued a call to action to the audience, urging them to support TRACE through knowledge sharing and training, supporting STEAM curriculum in schools, networking and introductions, funding, and by becoming ambassadors for TRACE.

TRACE envisions Sri Lanka as Asia’s leading hub for technology and innovation, and is committed to playing a vital role in the country’s economic resilience and technological advancement through its various initiatives. As TRACE continues to expand its global innovation ecosystem, the organisation extends an invitation to individuals and organisations to support its mission through knowledge sharing, funding, and introductions.

Stay connected with TRACE – Sri Lanka for updates on upcoming initiatives by following their social media channels.

TRACE – Sri Lanka
TRACE is Sri Lanka’s leading innovation hub that’s Technologically Re-Awakening a Culture of Excellence in the nation. This non-profit organisation acts as a catalyst spurring creativity, collaboration and the creation of high-tech products across various sectors and industries.

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The adverse effects of climate change, coupled with the long-drawn impacts of the socio-economic crisis have had devastating effects on communities across Sri Lanka.  

The rural economy is reliant on natural resources and has shown increasing frailty due to rampant inflation, increasing import prices, and the unpredictability of supply chains. 

With the increasing cost of living, energy sources continue to be unaffordable to many low-income households in rural Sri Lanka, prompting these families back into unsafe alternative energy options which cause indoor air pollution, premature deaths, and an increase in acute and chronic diseases. 

As part of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)’s Climate Promise initiative with funding from the Government of Japan through Japan Supplementary Budget (JSB) Phase 1, the project entitled ‘Enhancing Food and Energy Security through the Promotion of Renewable Energy for Wider Uptake among Vulnerable Smallholder Farmers in Sri Lanka’ was implemented in the North-Western and Eastern Provinces. 

In Phase 2, the ‘Enhancing Rural Resilience in Sri Lanka through Energy Efficiency & the Adoption of Renewable Energy for a Just Transition to Net-Zero Pathways’ project is being implemented in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka. 

In a recent visit to the Northern and Eastern Provinces, the Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, Akio ISOMATA, together with the Resident Representative of UNDP in Sri Lanka, Azusa KUBOTA, engaged in an observation visit to selected project sites, along with key representatives from local governments including Mr. Nadaraja Thamilchelvan, Deputy Chief Secretary, Eastern Province; Dr. Raj Gnanasegar, Director-Planning, Eastern Province; and Mr. A. Umamaheshwaran, District Secretary, Mullaitivu District.   

Commenting on the visits, Ambassador ISOMATA noted, “These projects are significant as they try to achieve human security of individuals as well as energy security of the society by meeting energy needs of the local communities through energy efficiency and renewable energy technology. Assistance to the Northern and Eastern Provinces continues to be an important pillar of Japan’s development assistance to Sri Lanka. Japan is committed to working together with all stakeholders, also taking into account the recently launched initiative of the new government ’Clean Sri Lanka.”

During the visit to the Eastern Province, the high-level delegation saw the direct impacts in locations including the District Agriculture Training Centre in Uppuweli, Trincomalee, which was supported with a 10kW solar PV system and supports nearly 10,000 individuals- playing a crucial role in equipping smallholder farmers, women, youth, and government officials with essential agricultural knowledge and skills with an annual saving of approximately 1,700 USD.

In the Northern Province, Ambassador ISOMATA and Ms. KUBOTA along with Mr. A. Umamaheshwaran, District Secretary, Mullaitivu District visited the beneficiaries with home gardens in Puthukkudiyiruppu. 

The delegation directly engaged and interacted with beneficiaries who have been supported through the introduction of Renewable Energy Technologies. 75 biogas units, 100 improved cookstoves and 102 Solar PV systems will be provided to the community under the project and were symbolically handed over to the community during the visit. 

Highlighting the UNDP’s leadership through the initiative, Ms. Azusa KUBOTA, Resident Representative, UNDP in Sri Lanka added, “For many families in this area, energy access is not just a challenge—it’s a barrier to opportunity. High energy costs limit the potential to thrive socially and economically. By providing solar, biogas, and improved cookstoves to the community through the UNDP Climate Promise Initiative, funded by the Government of Japan, we enhance livelihoods and narrow the energy divide for rural farming communities. We are grateful for the opportunities provided by the Government and People of Japan to bring new technologies to the communities.”

The completed JSB-funded Phase 1 project supported the agricultural sector facing the shortage of power and energy, enhancing food and energy security through the utilization of renewable energy, with funding amounting to 1 million USD. The ongoing JSB-funded Phase 2 project has worked to strengthen the human and energy security of climate-vulnerable communities, particularly women, youth and rural entrepreneurs, while accelerating the uptake of renewable energy technologies, for domestic, Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and public service energy requirements, setting a foundation for a just transition to net-zero pathways and sustainable development, with funding amounting to almost 328 thousand USD. (Newswire)

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The Ministry of Transport and Highways, in collaboration with the Department of Motor Traffic (DMT) Sri Lanka and with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has successfully launched a pilot project aimed at converting 200 petrol-powered, four-stroke three-wheelers into electric vehicles.

The initiative, which focuses on promoting sustainable transport options, primarily targeted beneficiaries from Colombo. 

Special consideration was given to female owners, persons with disabilities, and families whose livelihoods depend on a single three-wheeler. 

These groups were prioritized in the selection process. (Newswire)

The Ministry of Transport and Highways, the @DMTSrilanka with the support of @undp #lka conducted a pilot project to convert 200 4-stroke petrol three-wheelers to electric.

The beneficiaries were all selected from #Colombo, while female owners, persons with disabilities,… pic.twitter.com/6CsScGXtPl

— UNDP in Sri Lanka (@UNDPSriLanka) August 29, 2024

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A decision has been taken to continue to anchor Citra Lab, Sri Lanka’s first Social Innovation Lab, at the Prime Minister’s Office and operationalize Citra 3.0, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sri Lanka said. 

Further to the findings of an independent review conducted in 2023, during the next five years of a transitional period towards the public sector innovation lab, it was agreed upon that Citra will continue to be anchored at the PM’s Office as a joint initiative with UNDP Sri Lanka to leverage its global expertise and knowledge base.

Citra Lab, a joint initiative between the Government and UNDP Sri Lanka, will operate closely with four lead ministries – the Ministries of Education, Finance and Planning, Public Administration, and Technology. 

The Lab will focus on three workstreams – namely, systems transformation, public sector innovation and policy coherence – and will operate through four key enablers – digital, data, innovation, and service design.

The decision on Citra Lab was taken during a meeting convened under the patronage of Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena yesterday.

The meeting was attended by co-chairs of the Citra Social Innovation Lab Governance Board, Mr. Anura Dissanayake, Secretary to the Prime Minister, and Ms. Azusa Kubota, Resident Representative, UNDP in Sri Lanka, together with Shehan Semasinghe, State Minister of Finance, Kanaka Herath, State Minister of Technology, Dr. Dharmasri Kumaratunga, Secretary, Ministry of Technology, Mr. M. L. Gammampila, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Public Administration, and representatives from the Ministries of Education, Finance and Planning, Public Administration, and Technology. 

Staying agile, relevant and fit-for-purpose is essential for the successful operation of any innovation facility, and the Citra Social Innovation Lab, South Asia and Sri Lanka’s first social innovation lab, has already reinvented itself twice in its five years of operation, and is currently undergoing its third iteration, intending to become a transformational public sector innovation lab.

Citra Lab was established in 2018 through a Cabinet memo. In 2022, following a review, through a further Cabinet memo, the Lab was anchored under the Prime Minister’s Office. Citra is a part of UNDP-supported global innovation facilities, working closely with diverse innovation facilities across the world. (Newswire)

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Over 100 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the tourism sector were awarded the National Sustainable Tourism Certification Scheme (NSTCS), which is a process that recognizes and promotes destinations that are committed to environmental, social and economic sustainability in Sri Lanka. 

In line with the overall strategy of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) and in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sri Lanka the certification scheme was established in 2018 in line with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council guidelines. 

The certifications were awarded on Wednesday (May 29) in the presence of Tourism Minister Harin Fernando; Secretary to the Tourism Minister H.M.B.P. Herath, UNDP Resident Representative in Sri Lanka Azusa Kubota, Chairperson – SLTDA Priantha Fernando, Director General – SLTDA R. Sariffodeen, and other high-level dignitaries from the tourism and development sector. 

The certification scheme aims to involve all tourism stakeholders- government agencies and the private sector, working in partnership to move towards a more sustainable tourism sector in Sri Lanka in line with national priorities. Following the successful completion of the pilot phase in 2019 for the accommodation sector, in 2023 a call for applications was opened for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the sector.

According to the ADB, Small and medium enterprises play a vital role in the country’s economy, contributing more than 50% of the GDP in Sri Lanka. Around 75% of these enterprises belong to the tourism sector. These include hotels and homestays (33%), spas and ayurveda (18%). Souvenirs, handicrafts, cafes, food and beverages make up most of the remaining enterprises.

While tourism growth brings positive outcomes for countries, there could also be negative impacts, with unplanned tourism creating specific challenges. Against this background, the Government of Sri Lanka with its ambitious growth targets of tourist arrivals, is working towards to continue in offering positive tourism experiences ensuring long-term sustainability for the country.

Commenting on the certification scheme, Priantha Fernando, Chairperson of SLTDA stated, “Our commitment to sustainability is not just about meeting the demands of today’s consumers; it is about securing a better future for our nation and the generations to come. What is good for our nation, our future, and our customers is intrinsically linked thus, let us continue to build a sustainable, prosperous, and vibrant tourism industry in Sri Lanka.”

This programme involves a series of steps to assess and validate a destination’s efforts in various sustainability aspects with a special focus on sustainable use of biodiversity including reducing threats to the environment and promoting environmentally friendly practices.  

The Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN) is a UNDP-managed global collaboration to develop and implement an evidence-based methodology that improves biodiversity outcomes using finance and economics. In Sri Lanka, working together with the Government of Sri Lanka, BIOFIN works on implementing three (3) finance solutions for the sustainable use and management of biodiversity; the development of a Green Lending framework, a sustainable certification for the tourism industry following the establishment of the Sustainable Tourism Unit (STU), and payment for ecosystem services in the mini-hydro power generation sector.

Highlighting UNDP’s role, Azusa Kubota, Resident Representative, UNDP in Sri Lanka noted, “Biodiversity must be at the heart of Sri Lanka’s recovery trajectory, from nature-based solutions with investments to let biodiversity flourish, creating jobs and opportunities for communities to secure a sustainable future. Through the success of such certification schemes in the tourism sector, UNDP reaffirms its commitment to working together with all stakeholders in the sector to demonstrate how nature-positive economies can work for people and the planet.”

The national certification scheme will mitigate the negative impacts of tourism but also incentivize tourism businesses to transition toward environmentally and socially responsible business practices. Importantly, generating income, providing skilled employment opportunities, preserving local ecosystems and cultures, and creating positive experiences for local people, tourism companies, and tourists themselves. (Newswire)

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The inception phase of the United Nations Partnerships on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNPRPD) funds disability inclusion initiative in Sri Lanka reached 30 stakeholders from across the country.

According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sri Lanka, as a key activity of the inception phase of the project, an induction training reaching 30 stakeholders comprising representatives from the government, disabled person organizations, and civil society organizations engaged in disability inclusion, was kick-started in Negombo in May.

The induction training will be followed by a situational analysis of the rights of persons with disabilities to identify priorities for disability-inclusive development and support full and effective implementation of the United Nations Convention on Rights of Persons with Disability (CRPD) norms and achievement of inclusive Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in Sri Lanka.

The event saw the participation of high-level representatives including Anupa Pasqual, State Minister of Social Empowerment; Marc-André Franche, Resident Coordinator, UN in Sri Lanka; and Azusa Kubota, Resident Representative, UNDP in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka ratified the United Nations CRPD in 2016 and was invited to implement the UNPRPD Fund Inception Phase, in 2023.

Through the United Nations Partnership on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNPRPD) Fund, the United Nations in Sri Lanka is implementing an initiative at a national level, with technical lead the UNDP in Sri Lanka. The UNPRPD project is a collaboration with participating agencies UNICEF, ILO, OHCHR, UN Women, WHO, WFP, UNDP, UNICEF and UNFPA. 

Sri Lanka has its unique challenges to transform the CRPD into concrete policies, systems, programs, and services that uphold the rights of persons with disabilities that result in real changes in their lives. To respond to gaps in CRPD implementation, the UNPRPD Fund adopts a multi-sectoral approach that focuses on the preconditions for disability inclusion, and furthermore, seeks to improve and increase the implementation of disability-inclusive SDGs at the country level by providing fundamental support to the UN’s collective response to address national priorities and gaps concerning persons with disabilities in their national planning to advance the SDGs.

Commenting on the initiative, Anupa Pasqual, State Minister of Social Empowerment noted, “There is a need to revamp Sri Lanka’s education system to be more inclusive and considerate of the needs of PWDs, while also exploring avenues to make Sri Lanka an accessible destination for tourists with disabilities. The Government of Sri Lanka is working to create an enabling environment across policy-making, livelihood interventions, educational reforms and accessibility, and we are grateful to the support of the United Nations in Sri Lanka through initiatives such as the UNPRPD to work towards a more inclusive country.”

Highlighting the UN’s role, Resident Coordinator of the United Nations in Sri Lanka, Marc-André Franche stated, “The CRPD is more than just a declaration; it requires Sri Lanka to actively engage in efforts to ensure that people with disabilities enjoy full equality under the law. This training provides a platform for collaborative efforts between the government, civil society and UN entities to identify and overcome the challenges that hinder the effective implementation of the Convention in Sri Lanka.” 

The induction training was designed to be a standardized training module that would provide stakeholders with foundational knowledge on CRPD, disability-inclusive SDGs and UNPRPD’s Strategic Operational Framework (SOF), with training manuals also being made available in local languages and accessible format. The training’s main objective was to ensure stakeholders were informed and prepared to participate in subsequent activities.

Commenting on the outstanding participation at the induction training, UNDP Sri Lanka’s Resident Representative, Ms. Azusa Kubota stated “The full operationalization of the CRPD is key for Sri Lanka to achieve a society where inclusivity is the norm, and persons with disabilities have the necessary infrastructure and policy framework that allows meaningful and complete integration into mainstream society. Towards this end, as the designated Disability Champion of the United Nations Country Team, I would like to reaffirm our commitment to changing mindsets, attitudes and societal perceptions towards persons with disabilities.” (Newswire)

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Nature is life. Nature is interconnected, intertwined, and indivisible with human life, our societies, and economies. Yet, the world over, land, seas, air, freshwater and wildlife are being destroyed at an alarming rate. 

According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on average, wildlife populations have declined almost 70% since 1970. Wild mammals have declined as a share of the global mammal biomass to just 4% as at 2015.[1] 

Around 60% of global GDP is at least moderately dependent on natural resources, yet resource extraction and processing cause over 90% of global biodiversity loss.[2] The world is currently witnessing the dual crisis of catastrophic nature loss and climate change—a massive transgression on two key planetary boundaries.

Sri Lanka is a perfect example of a paradise at the nexus of climate change and biodiversity loss. Sri Lanka is one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world, ranking within the top ten countries, consecutively over the recent years.[3]  On average, Sri Lanka experiences US$313 million in annual disaster losses, due to acute climate-vulnerability.[4] Sri Lanka’s unique biological diversity is facing general decline, as well. 27% of 240 identified species of birds are threatened, along with 66% of amphibian species, 56% of mammals, 49% of freshwater fish species and 59% of reptiles. In particular, one of Sri Lanka’s well-known and flagship species, the elephant, has been affected by a population decline. As for flowering plants, 1,385 species of the 3,154 identified species are classified as threatened, the high majority of which (594) are endemic to Sri Lanka.[5] From 2001 to 2023, Sri Lanka lost 222 kha of tree cover, equivalent to a 5.6% decrease in tree cover since 2000.[6]

The world over, resources have been gradually shrinking, and Sri Lanka is no stranger to this, especially given the cascading impacts of the economic crisis. A Finance Needs Assessment conducted in 2018 by the Biodiversity Financing Initiative (BIOFIN) found that Sri Lanka would need approximately 31 billion LKR (190 million USD) within 2018-2024 period with the caveat that the government will maintain its current level of investments for the period. The Climate Prosperity Plan submitted to the UNFCCC as the country’s long-term low GHG emission strategy requires US$ 26 billion, US$ 6.5 billion per year if we are to successfully mitigate and adapt to climate change—a startling reckoning for the country on both fronts.

It is in this context that we mark 2024’s International Day for Biological Diversity. This year, the day serves as a call to action: ‘Be Part of the Plan. ’Given the current state of affairs, it is evident that there is an imminent need to forward catalytic actions towards halting and reversing biodiversity loss, and to accelerate the mobilization of resources towards countries, those like Sri Lanka, to reach their biodiversity targets and commitments.

There is a need for more bold, more imaginative, and more ambitious solutions. For instance, the BIOFIN initiative—a UNDP managed global collaborative partnership—works towards improving biodiversity outcomes using finance and economics to bridge the financing gap by mobilizing innovative financing for investments in biodiversity. The National Sustainable Tourism Certification Scheme, one of BIOFIN’s 16 financial solutions for Sri Lanka, has been the catalyser in mobilizing more than 500 million LKR from various stakeholders for investments in sustainable tourism, —a clear example of innovation paying it forward! With renewed ambition, UNDP’s Nature Pledge commits to provide accelerated and upscaled support to over 140 countries to reach their ambitious targets in the historic Global Biodiversity Framework. Another example was BIOFIN’s support to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka to initiate the Sustainable Finance Roadmap which paved the way to promoting sustainable financing among commercial banks in the country.

All these innovative steps in the right direction will lead to sustainable management of services provided by ecosystems and biodiversity which will ultimately lead to conserve and promote human well-being, enhance ecosystem services, and create sustainable livelihoods for Sri Lanka’s people.

Each one of us has a role to play in conserving biodiversity, whether by adopting sustainable practices in our daily lives, supporting conservation initiatives, or advocating for policies that prioritize nature conservation. By working together, we can ensure a sustainable future where biodiversity thrives, enriching and sustaining life for generations to come—Be Part of the Plan!

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In a significant development for Sri Lanka’s efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), the National Guidelines for the Management of Shelters for Victim-survivors of SGBV were recently launched by the Ministry of Women, Child Affairs and Social Empowerment, following Cabinet approval. 

According to a statement by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sri Lanka, this marks a crucial milestone in enhancing the quality of services for victim-survivors, addressing the current lack of regulatory oversight for shelter homes catering to SGBV victim-survivors.

These guidelines are the result of a collaborative effort led by the Ministry of Women, Child Affairs and Social Empowerment together with UNDP Sri Lanka, as a key component of the ‘Enabling Access to Justice for Victim-Survivors of SGBV in Sri Lanka’ project, a joint initiative with UNDP and UNFPA Sri Lanka, with funding from the Government of Canada.

“The National Guidelines is a critical milestone in regulating and streamlining the services provided for victim-survivors of SGBV. The Ministry will use this yardstick to ensure that these services are monitored and managed in line with the stipulated standards,” noted Champa Upasena, Director Women’s Bureau of the Ministry of Women, Child Affairs and Social Empowerment.

The guidelines will establish a State-led management system to register, monitor, and enhance the quality of services for victim-survivors, particularly those experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) or domestic violence (DV), seeking refuge in shelters. This initiative will significantly improve access to justice by providing a regulatory framework for assessing and enhancing shelter services provided by both state and private entities. Management and monitoring structures will be established at the Divisional, District, and National levels, involving existing government officials such as Secretaries to relevant line ministries, representatives from the National Women’s Commission, Women’s Bureau, Police, and Probation Services.

Highlighting UNDP’s lead role in pushing this agenda, Azusa Kubota, Resident Representative, UNDP in Sri Lanka, stated, “Through the social dialogues that have accompanied the mobile gender exhibition supported by the Government of Canada, it has become clear that women and girls face greater risks at home, and are often left with inadequate support due to shortages of shelters and their lack of ability to provide a comprehensive support package. The cascading crisis that the Sri Lankan community has faced has elevated the relevance of the guidelines and it is our sincere hope that they will be a critical step towards ensuring that victim-survivors of SGBV have access to safe and supportive shelter services.”

Looking ahead, UNDP, in collaboration with the Ministry of Women, Child Affairs, and Social Empowerment, will conduct a nationwide assessment of all shelters against the new guidelines. This assessment will serve as a foundation for operationalizing the guidelines at the national and sub-national levels, ensuring that victim-survivors receive the quality services they deserve.

These guidelines signify a stride towards ensuring that victim-survivors of SGBV in Sri Lanka receive the support and protection they deserve. This initiative not only sets a new standard for shelter services but also underscores the collective determination to address SGBV comprehensively. Together, we are building a safer and more just future for all. (NewsWire)

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A commemorative event took place in Polonnaruwa on Monday with the participation of over 300 women across 07 districts, to commemorate the vital contribution of rural women in Sri Lanka and to celebrate International Rural Women’s Day, which falls on October 15.

Achieving gender equality and empowering women is not only the right thing to do but is a critical ingredient in the fight against extreme poverty, hunger and malnutrition, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sri Lanka said in a statement. 

The UNDP further said that as the world celebrates International Rural Women’s Day on 15th October each year, the day shines a spotlight and recognizes the significant contributions of women to global development. 

The commemorative event in Polonnaruwa saw the participation of high-level representatives including; Roshan Ranasinghe, Minister of Irrigation and Sport; Anupa Pasqual, State Minister of Social Empowerment; Mizukoshi Hideaki, Ambassador of Japan in Sri Lanka; Azusa Kubota, Resident Representative, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sri Lanka; along with representatives from local government, and civil society organizations.

Speaking at the event, Roshan Ranasinghe, Minister of Irrigation and Sport noted, “I appreciate the efforts taken to celebrate Rural Women’s Day here in Polonnaruwa, a testament to their resilience to hardships and challenges faced over the years…We acknowledge the grant support provided by the Government of Japan and other stakeholders through these UNDP-led interventions, to support and empower these communities.”

Commenting on the importance of the day, Anupa Pasqual, State Minister of Social Empowerment stated, “Recognizing rural women on a commemorative day such as today, not only empowers women, but supports to build and rebuild, strong sustainable women’s networks… I encourage all present here today to commit yourselves, as you have been equipped with the right skills to journey on this new path.”

The special event saw the opening of the Gal Oya Green Zone, the handing over of the poultry feed production centre to the Gal Oya Green Women’s Society, and the awarding of membership to the Rural Women’s Business Forum, among other activities. These efforts are a result of UNDP-led interventions in the field, through the Green Climate Fund (GCF) financed ‘Climate Resilient Integrated Water Management Project (CRIWMP)’, the Japanese Supplementary Budget (JSB) funded ‘Strengthening Smallholder Farmers and Micro/Home-Based Agriculture Industries for  Enhanced Food and Livelihood Security’ project, and financing from the Government of Luxemburg through UNDP’s Funding Windows supported intervention to create an integrated social protection system for long-term inclusive growth and broad-based resilience.

Noting the Government of Japan’s priority in strengthening such interventions in Sri Lanka, Mizukoshi Hideaki, Ambassador of the Government of Japan in Sri Lanka stated, “I believe these interventions will provide practical means to uplift lives of vulnerable communities with a focus on women’s economic empowerment and enhance the capacity, promoting their productivity and sustainability, which will contribute to the economic recovery of Sri Lanka. The Government of Japan is committed to supporting the lives of rural women through numerous projects and initiatives”.

Through UNDPs integrated support through the Funding Windows, the Gal Oya Green Zone encompasses a roadside marketplace with 20 eco-friendly sales huts along a kilometre stretch of the Habarana – Trincomalee Road, benefiting 40 women beneficiaries in the area, enabling the sale of ecologically grown home garden agricultural products. In addition, 110 home gardens have been established under the Green Climate Funded CRIWMP and Japanese Supplementary Budget (JSB) supported projects, enhancing nutritional levels, increasing food security among farming families, and creating livelihood opportunities to sell surplus produce at the roadside market.

Commenting on UNDP’s role, Azusa Kubota, Resident Representative for UNDP in Sri Lanka highlighted, “From the rising cost of living and food insecurity, women have disproportionally felt the brunt of the compounding crises. Our joint initiatives with the Government of Sri Lanka, generously funded by the Government of Japan, equipped women with livelihood skills and tools to enhance their resilience against these shocks. The women have applied their own indigenous knowledge and innovation to augment the impact of these investments and we clearly see the exponential effect. At UNDP, we are firmly committed to working with women, particularly in rural areas, at this time of difficulty as they can truly be agents of change for the families and communities, and the country as a whole.”

Through gender equitable agriculture programmes such as backyard poultry, climate-smart rainwater harvesting and drinking water supply in the Dry Zone to ease the care work burden, quick grant schemes for agro-based enterprises and crop cultivation, engagement of women in micro irrigation systems and water management, Rural Women’s Day is an opportunity to recognize the work of these heroines in the food systems of the world and in Sri Lanka, while striving to create more equitable and sustainable opportunities for all. (NewsWire)

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International Youth Day 2023

At only 26 years old, Jayanthan is already a visionary. His office by the Kalladi beach in Batticaloa, Sri Lanka, is modest, but well organised. At first sight, it was evident the plans Jayanthan and his team had for the future were ambitious.

Though still a very green start-up, Jayanthan has a team of nearly 10 people, a sales and marketing division, an engineering team, an office administrator, and a finance officer – overkill one might think. A thought that would quickly pass when conversing with this young man. He has clear plans to expand his business into something quite ground-breaking and unique.

Jayanthan is graduating this year from Uva Wellassa University with a Bachelor’s in Mechatronics and has no real-world experience to speak of. But in the way he articulates his journey, his vision, and goals – it is difficult not to see a wizened go-getter, and a savvy businessman. His demeanour and attitude would reassure any prospective investor that he is worth banking on.

Through his innovative thinking and vision to build an enterprise that helps to better the lives of people in his community, Jayanthan and his team have designed a digital platform which will help hospitals and clinics in Batticaloa move towards a rapid digital transformation. The initial seed funding to get his hospital management system up and running was provided by UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) through Hatch in a collaborative project titled Social Connect, which identifies and supports young and innovative social entrepreneurs.

Idealism and social enterprise

Idealism is a virtue of youth, a virtue often tarnished by the harsh realities of modern living. The same can be said for the dreams of childhood. The young boy who dreamt of being an astronaut never reached the moon, the young girl who dreamt of being a ballerina never got to dance in Swan Lake. But ventures such as Social Connect, an initiative designed to support startups and SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprise) across Sri Lanka, are initiated so that at least a few dreamers can sneak through the great filters and bring their dreams to life, and make an impact on their community and society in the process.

Jayanthan’s journey is a perfect embodiment of UNDP’s youth development ethos of ‘leaving no youth behind.’

His passion for innovation began when he was only 13 years old. Since then, he has participated in many competitions and programmes; some of which were facilitated by UNDP and the Citra Social Innovation Lab, which have paved the way for him to win many accolades, attend engaging workshops, and has met many inspiring people who have provided mentorship and guidance.

“I first learnt about the idea of social enterprise in 2019 when I participated in the HackaDev Social Innovation Challenge”.

From the HackaDev Social Innovation Challenge to the incubation support received through the Economic Resilience Coaching Programme, Jayanthan’s ideas have been given life.

Jayanthan credits HackaDev for exposing him to the concept of social enterprise. A concept he now attaches to all his ventures. And in some sense is the founding ethos of his start-up.

His start-up and the community of hopeful entrepreneurs and innovators he has attracted and supports, all work with this mindset and the desire to uplift their community. It is quite motivating and inspiring to see such young people overcoming hurdles and obstacles to assist the people around them.

In 2022, Jayanthan and his team began an initiative to employ a single mother or a person with disability for a minimum period of one year. Currently a single mother; Wasanthi works with him in an upcycling venture he has under his fold. He goes on to explain, that a person with a disability will be joining his team in September this year, to support his software development work.

Why UNDP invests in young people

In Sri Lanka, young people make up a quarter of the population. Responding to the needs of this generation of young people cannot be overstated. At UNDP, we work on several fronts to support young people while recognising, promoting, and supporting the role of youth as critical and positive agents of change.

UNDP in Sri Lanka has many projects and programmes that facilitate young entrepreneurs, ranging from the Hackadev Innovation Challenges, Academy, and Incubator, while working together with many private sector partners for collaborative programmes such as the UNDP x Hatch Social Connect initiative, that helped address challenges stemming from Sri Lanka’s socio-economic crisis.

Jayanthan gives UNDP a lot of credit for where he is today. He received the initial funding for his start-up through Hackadev Social Innovation Challenge back in 2019. During the economic crisis, Jayanthan received incubation support through the HackaDev Economic Resilience Coaching Programme (2022-2023). Now, with the grant from Social Connect, his business is stable, sustainable and set to thrive.

He was quick to mention that his exposure to the programme was very timely. His business was barely functioning, his staff was working on a volunteer basis, and the projects he had undertaken were mismanaged and uncoordinated. However, after meeting the mentors and technical experts at Hatch through Social Connect, he was able to turn things around. All his staff are paid now, and his enterprise generates a monthly income of 200,000 rupees, which he says is sufficient to sustain operations for the time being.

The Maker Space at Hatch offers a great collaborative setting with a variety of machines to build prototypes and engage with other young innovators. Jayanthan, says the experience and mentorship provided by Hatch has allowed him to expand and focus his vision as a social entrepreneur.

The hospital management system

UNDP and Hatch through the Social Connect initiative, supports Jayanthan for his innovative Hospital Management System. The initial seed fund of 1 million rupees that was provided has been invested into developing the software platform, purchasing servers, maintenance, meeting clients and other administrative costs.

This platform will provide a homegrown solution to digitally transform health services in the Batticaloa District, helping to maintain a digital record of patients that can be accessed by doctors at any of the clinics or hospitals using the system.

“The digital transformation is inevitable, and we want to help our community adapt and embrace this. Our tool will make the process of documentation at hospitals more efficient and precise.”

Community driven as he is, Jayanthan is adamant that his product should serve all 320 local hospitals and clinics in Batticaloa. His goals for expansion in the coming years is solely focused on his home district. To enter the market, he is planning to provide 10 systems to Government hospitals for free. And from there, using the feedback and exposure obtained take his product to a subscription-based model.

Jayanthan and his team are also working on a mobile app, which he says is targeted at helping extremely rural communities who must travel over 30KMs for even a general check-up. A journey that often takes one or two hours on broken roads with hardly any buses, or other means of transport available.

Being young is an obstacle sometimes

As capable and sophisticated as he is, Jayanthan is young – in his words, this makes his vision extremely hard to achieve. Not because of anything else, but age-old Sri Lankan dogma.

According to Jayanthan, it is extremely hard to convince doctors, and stakeholders, even his parents to take his venture seriously, and for them to stop seeing him as a child with a simple dream.

“Bringing about change is hard.”

But Jayanthan is an enterprising person. With advice from his mentors, he has identified a few ways to overcome this challenge. From pursuing further studies and certifications programmes to further gain credibility, he is also in the process of planning collaborations and partnerships with stakeholders that other prospective clients will have to take seriously. In setting up these meetings and pitching his idea, Jayanthan is relentless. It is hard for anyone who meets him and talks to him to see him as a naïve child, they will only see the savvy and driven entrepreneur he is.

Building community and supporting each other

Apart from the Hospital Management System, Jayanthan and his team work on web development projects, an innovative biogas for domestic use project, futuristic marine research equipment and many other things.

Jayanthan’s experience and exposure to incubators such as Hatch and the HackaDev programme has led to much change in his hometown. He and his enterprise are at the heart of an emerging movement in Batticaloa. Many new start-ups are popping up and supporting each other in what is quickly becoming a vibrant community.

They have community threads on instant messaging apps and other social platforms, where he and other leaders in the innovator space share thoughts, ideas, jobs, and business opportunities. He also organizes learning sessions for up and coming, hopeful entrepreneurs and is ever eager to point them in the right direction.

Jayanthan is the epitome of a hardworking, young, social entrepreneur and a victory for UNDP’s youth development efforts from over the years. As we celebrate International Youth Day 2023, UNDP continues to strive towards creating inclusive, safe spaces, and opportunities, to boost youth participation in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.

Jayanthan is one of the many young, promising and extremely talented young entrepreneurs who have been supported by UNDP’s extensive youth development programmes. Jayanthan, began his journey by participating in the HackaDev Social Innovation Challenge, from which he gained exposure and incubation for his first venture: Trash for Trade. Since then, he has been further supported by HackaDev Ambassador (2021-2022), the Economic Resilience Coaching Programme (2022-2023) and most recently through Social Connect (2022-2023). 

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United Nations Development Programme’s representative in India, Shoko Noda on Monday highlighted India’s G20 Presidency that comes at a critical moment to accelerate the efforts of climate actions.

He said that it is excellent that India can now speak not only about India, but also the represent the whole global south.

In an exclusive interview to ANI on World Environment Day, Noda said, “It is excellent that India can now speak not only about India, but also the represent the whole global south. India is focusing on climate action also financing for climate action so that the more funding would come to different developing countries to actually mitigate emissions and also the protection. transfer of technology is another critical issue that India is advocating, and climate justice.”

Adding that climate change is not only imminent in India but globally, she said,”I’m very glad that India is taking this day very seriously.”

UNDP is a United Nations agency tasked with helping countries eliminate poverty and achieve sustainable economic growth and human development.

Responding to a question on the increasing problem of plastic pollution, she told ANI, “There is a very worrisome estimation that there will be more plastics than fish in the ocean by 2050. And this also means that every day about 2000, the garbage truck full of plastics are dumping plastic into oceans, into rivers, into lakes, globally.”

Every year we are producing 400 million pounds of plastics and not all or I must say the most of it is not recycled. So it’s extremely important to reverse this trend. We are cautiously optimistic that if we act now, by 2040 we are hearing that the we can reduce 80 per cent of plastic pollution, she added.

Shoko Noda further added by saying that greenhouse gas emissions are related to household consumptions, and she underlined that it extremely important that we as individuals also change our behaviors.

“It’s very clear step by step actions. And then also emphasize that overconsumption is no longer fashionable. There is also a message that if India can do that, the rest of the world especially those developed countries, which have been over consuming can also re adjust their behavior,” she said. (ANI)

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