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Mediation Boards and youth: the role, need, and implementation of conflict resolution in Sri Lankan school systems

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3 years ago

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Conflicts are understood differently by young people depending on their experiences in society. As opposed to what society typically perceives as a conflict, it encompasses a much broader spectrum than mere disagreements.

Conflicts often arise as a result of differences in perception in the youth community. Even though individuality is a personal characteristic, it is likely to differ from person to person depending on their social background and environment. These differences are also influenced by nature and the environment, with individuals also having the potential to change in response to factors such as education, experience, religion, and culture, as well as inherited traits from past societies.

Having a better understanding of conflict situations can have a positive effect on a person’s ability to resolve the same while also broadening their perspective.

The role of education in

emotion management

The raising of a well-balanced, responsible personality is neglected in Sri Lanka’s education system, where instead the sole focus is on obtaining employment and maintaining a livelihood. The unreasonable expectations placed on children to become professionals such as engineers or doctors limit their opportunities to grow and discover their own individual talents and interests.

In order to handle conflicts effectively during their school years and throughout their adult lives, students need to be educated about emotional management at school. It is disheartening to observe the behavior of young people in relation to conflict resolution while in college. It reflects the lack of emotional management skills among young people, who are unable to deal with their own problems; instead focusing on fulfilling the agendas of influential individuals.

The tolerance of diversity among youth

First encounters with diversity occur in the school environment. The discipline and lessons from school prepare them for diversity and individuality as adults. Indeed, having sympathy and empathy for other peoples’ sadness, pain, and happiness, can reduce social conflicts.

Often, long-standing conflicts are the result of misinformation, misperceptions, and incorrect attitudes. The conflict becomes more serious as a result of resentment that has developed over time toward the individual, rather than as a result of the incident itself.

The concept of mediation

(Samathakaranya) has been around throughout history as a method of resolving disputes. A mediation process has the ultimate purpose of resolving disagreements by taking ownership of both the problem and the solution that can be agreed upon by both parties. A Mediation Board empowers the parties involved by fostering their sense of self-assurance, confidence, and ability to openly discuss disputes and reach an agreement. Similarly, the mediators remain impartial and do not exhibit any bias towards any of the parties involved in the dispute. Additionally, they avoid coming to predetermined conclusions and ensure that the process is handled humanely and sensitively without harming anyone or creating conflict within the community.

Do Mediation Boards work well to resolve conflict between young people?

Currently, in Sri Lanka, there are 329 Conciliation Boards in operation, each consisting of a minimum of 12 members. A 40-hour course in mediation and communication techniques is required of Mediation Officers, and the final scores after a one-hour exam determine their selection.

Mediation Boards can settle disputes for youth of all ages despite their limited scope, and is the appropriate forum for anyone wanting to represent themselves in their own disputes.

The individual or party responsible for causing a dispute should not be viewed as an adversary during mediation. The principles of mediation teach that the most effective solutions to problems often result from engaging with those who might initially appear to be opponents. Communicating and solving problems in this manner leads to greater success.

An organization that respects the privacy of youth

First and foremost, the Mediation Board is responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of the problem you present. An adult may be able to assist you in discussing the issue freely, even if it is related to a romantic relationship. Following that, they provide the necessary guidance for resolving the dispute.

As a participant in mediation, you have the opportunity to analyze your problem according to your own preferences. The Mediation Board offers young people an excellent opportunity to seek guidance and support for their problems in a safe and open environment. In order to ensure the country’s future health and well-being, the Board is dedicated to listening and providing assistance to individuals while also maintaining their right to privacy.

The integration of mediation into school and university systems

The importance of mediation education in schools and universities cannot be overstated. With the assistance of the British Council, the Mediation Board Commission and the Ministry of Justice developed and launched a program in 2004 to address this need. A Mediation Unit was to be established in schools as part of the program. Essentially, this process involves referring certain disputes among school students to the school’s Mediation Unit which comprises senior students. Consequently, the school will establish a Mediation Unit comprising 25 students and five teachers. The Conciliation Unit consists of senior students who mediate disputes between parties.

It is not sufficient to implement a Mediation Unit at the school level alone. The need for its implementation at the university level has also emerged. University education should not only impart subject knowledge, but also cultivate a well-rounded student body that is acquainted with social issues, exposed to diverse forms of art and culture, and has an appreciation for literature. In addition to academic objectives, this is also a societal responsibility.


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Trade, Investment and Tourism Cooperation Forum strengthens economic ties between Sri Lanka and Vietnam

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12 hours ago

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2026/05/9

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Marking a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Vietnam, the Sri Lanka– Vietnam Trade, Investment and Tourism Cooperation Forum was successfully held on Friday (08) at the Hilton Colombo.

The Forum, jointly organised by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Sri Lanka Export Development Board, was held in parallel with the State Visit of President Tô Lâm of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam. The event was attended by President Tô Lâm and Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya.

The Forum underscored the importance of the longstanding bilateral relationship between the two countries and reflected the shared commitment to expanding economic cooperation.

The primary objective of the Forum was to further strengthen bilateral economic ties by focusing on key priorities including the expansion of trade, promotion of investment and enhancement of tourism cooperation. The event also provided an opportunity to explore new avenues of collaboration, strengthen business-to-business engagement and facilitate greater market access by bringing together senior government officials, entrepreneurs and industry leaders from both countries on a common platform.

During the Forum, direct air connectivity between Colombo and Ho Chi Minh City was officially launched. The new services, operated by Vietnam Airlines and VietJet Air, are expected to further strengthen relations between the two nations and their people.

Six Memoranda of Understanding covering key areas of cooperation were also signed during the Forum. In addition, a notable development was the establishment of the Sri Lanka–Vietnam Business Council under the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.

Alongside the Forum, the Sri Lanka Export Development Board organised a business networking session, providing Sri Lankan and Vietnamese entrepreneurs with the opportunity to engage directly with one another. The event received strong participation from the private sectors of both countries, with businesses expressing keen interest in expanding trade and establishing resilient supply chains.

Representing Sri Lanka at the event were Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Sunil Handunnetti, Minister of Environment , Dr. Dhammika Patabendi, Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development ,Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation, Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku, Deputy Minister of Tourism Ruwan Ranasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Thilaka Jayasundara, Secretary to the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development, K.A.Vimalenthirarajah, Chairman of the Export Development Board Mangala Wijesinghe along with several other dignitaries and officials.

Representing Vietnam were Politburo Member, Secretary of the Party Central Committee and Chairman of the Central Organisation Commission , Nguyen Duy Ngoc, Politburo Member, Secretary of the Party Central Committee and Chairman of the Central Commission for Policies and Strategies , Nguyen Thanh Nghi, Politburo Member, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, Phan Van Giang, Politburo Member and Minister of Public Security, Luong Tam Quang and Politburo Member and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Le Hoai Trung, among others.

(PMD)

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SL to launch first Dedicated Sustainable Tourism Association in South Asia

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15 hours ago

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2026/05/9

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Tourism personnel at the press briefing

‘Sri Lanka embarks on a journey towards a more sustainable and prosperous tourism industry.’

The Executive Committee of the Sustainable Tourism Association of Sri Lanka (SusTour) announced the above at its final meeting held on May 6, at Connaisance head office, Colombo. The committee finalised all preparations for the official launch in August of the first private sector led, non-governmental Sustainable Tourism Association in South Asia, as most tourism associations in Asia operate as dedicated Eco Tourism entities while this is probably the first in Asia.

This momentous event will be officiated by Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, who has agreed to inaugurate the Association in conjunction with a media launch.

Prof. Ranasinghe is not only a qualified academic specializing in sustainable tourism but also a passionate advocate for the development of sustainable tourism practices in Sri Lanka. His involvement is pivotal, as he has expressed his commitment to provide unwavering support to the Sustainable Tourism Association of Sri Lanka.

In addition to Prof. Ranasinghe’s support, Buddhika Hewawasam, chairman, SLTDA and Dheera Hettiarchchi, chairman, Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management, have also pledged their cooperation in the implementation of sustainable tourism initiatives through their respective state organisations. Their combined expertise and resources are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of tourism in Sri Lanka, ensuring that it aligns with sustainable development goals.

This inauguration marks a significant step towards fostering a sustainable tourism framework in Sri Lanka, one that prioritizes environmental preservation, cultural heritage and economic viability. The Sustainable Tourism Association of Sri Lanka is poised to lead the charge in promoting responsible tourism practices, ensuring that the industry flourishes while respecting the rich natural and cultural resources of the island.

Speaking at an exclusive press interview the Tourism Deputy Minister noted; “I am thrilled to see the private sector actively participating in the promotion of sustainable development, particularly within the tourism industry. This partnership is not just beneficial but essential, as it represents a viable mission that requires the joint engagement of both government and private entities. By working together, we can ensure that our tourism practices not only enhance economic growth but also preserve our natural resources and cultural heritage for future generations. It is through this collaborative approach that we can create lasting change and fulfill our commitment to sustainability.”

Adding to this collaborative effort, Australian High Commissioner Matthew Duckworth said Australia would continue its long-term support for sustainable tourism development in Sri Lanka. Australia has contributed more than 50 million Australian dollars over the past decade to sustainable tourism initiatives in Sri Lanka, including to support more sustainable planning, accreditation and skills development for this crucial sector. The High Commissioner confirmed that this support would continue into the future and highlighted Australia’s partnership with the Market Development Facility (MDF), which had recently launched a new initiative using data analytics to help Sri Lankan policy makers better understand how travelers discover and engage with destinations.

“Our vision is to create a platform where all stakeholders including product manufacturers can collaborate and share best practices in sustainable tourism, said Chandra Wickramasinghe, elected founder president of the Association. “We aim to ensure that tourism in Sri Lanka not only provides economic benefits but also contributes positively to the environment and local communities, he added.

The founders of STASL-SusTour believe that sustainable tourism is the ‘Future of World Tourism’ and is crucial for the long-term viability of Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, which is a significant contributor to the nation’s economy. By fostering responsible travel practices, the association seeks to educate stakeholders, including tourists and businesses along with manufacturers about the importance of sustainability.

‘ The association plans to launch various initiatives, including workshops, awareness campaigns and partnerships with local and international organizations focused on sustainable tourism, said Nalin Malwenna, newly elected secretary. Through these efforts, SusTour hopes to position Sri Lanka as a leading destination for eco-conscious travelers looking for authentic and responsible travel experiences.

“The establishment of the Sustainable Tourism Association of Sri Lanka arrives at a pivotal moment, signaling a commitment to a more sustainable future in the nation’s tourism landscape, said elected treasurer Dr. Samantha Pathirathne.

By Claude Gunasekera

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Siyapatha Finance unveils 62nd branch in dynamic Horana City

Published

15 hours ago

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2026/05/9

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Premier finance company Siyapatha Finance PLC recently unveiled its newest branch in Horana, successfully expanding its islandwide branch network to 62 branches. Located in one of the fastest-emerging economic hotspots in the Kalutara District, the Horana branch offers Siyapatha Finance’s wide range of holistic financial services including leasing, fixed deposits, gold financing, business loans,fast draft, factoring, and Smart Pay – the Company’s bill payment facility.

The branch was declared open by Siyapatha Finance PLC Directors- Jayanath Gunawardena and Ms. Sriyani Ranathunga , Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mathisha Hewavitharana in the presence of Chief Operating Officer (COO) Rajeev De Silva, Ms. Dinuli Gihansi Perera -student of Govinna Maha Vidyalaya , Horana who has been selected to represent Sri Lanka for Asian Boxing Championship 2026 , Senior Management, staff members as well as Police HQI Ranga Perera , Grama Niladhari Mr. Chaminda Kumara, representatives of the government and private banks and insurance companies and well-wishers.

Speaking at the ceremony, Siyapatha Finance PLC CEO Mathisha Hewavitharana remarked: “Horana is a region that has captured massive interest nationally in terms of commercial and social development in recent years. Expanding our branch network to this area gives us a significant opportunity to broaden our reach and serve a larger, diverse ;;customer base’’.

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