UNFPA Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils and Local Government, conducted a two-day training programme on gender equality and women’s empowerment for public officials. The training programme supported by the Embassy of Japan, got underway on 13th and 14th June in Colombo, bringing together public officials from various municipal councils within the Colombo District, including Colombo, Dehiwala, Kaduwela, Kotte, Moratuwa, Maharagama, Kolonnawa, Kesbewa, Homagama, Boralesgamuwa, Seethawakapura, Seethawaka, and Mulleriyawa.

Highlighting the significance of gender equality in achieving sustainable development and social advancement, UNFPA Sri Lanka re-affirmed its commitment to supporting gender equality and women's empowerment within the local government structures. This training underscored the importance of equipping public sector officials with the necessary knowledge, skills and attitudes to champion these principles. 

The primary goal of this two-day training programme was to empower public officials to integrate gender equality and address gender-based violence (GBV) within their communities. The participants explored a multitude of topics under the broader subjects of gender equality and women's empowerment, including strategies to combat GBV and best practices to promote these principles in the public sector. 

UNFPA Sri Lanka plans to integrate the training manual used for this two-day programme into the curricula of the Sri Lanka Institute of Development Administration (SLIDA) and the Sri Lanka Institute of Governance and Administration (SLIGA). This initiative aims to ensure that new recruits are equipped with essential knowledge and skills to champion gender equality and women’s empowerment. 

With the support of key donors, stakeholders, development partners and civil society, UNFPA Sri Lanka aspires foster a progressive and equitable future for all.