NISD Zero Plastic Movement Launches Digamadulla Mehewara 2026 Initiative in Ampara District

The NISD Zero Plastic Movement carried out a three-day environmental sustainability and youth leadership initiative titled Digamadulla Mehewara 2026 in the Ampara District of Sri Lanka from 7 to 9 October 2026. The programme brought together school students and young people across several activities centered on waste management awareness, environmental protection, and youth leadership development.

The initiative was organized with the aim of encouraging school students and young people in the Ampara District to take on responsible roles in environmental stewardship. A key focus of the programme was raising awareness about PEN-BIN practices and promoting responsible waste management, particularly during the Digamadulla Esala Perahera, a period that draws large public gatherings in the region.

Over the three days, participants took part in awareness programmes on plastic waste reduction and responsible disposal, leadership development activities, and community engagement efforts. The programme incorporated PEN-BIN awareness as a practical framework for waste management, guiding young participants on how to handle waste responsibly in public and community settings. Activities were structured to build the capacity of participants to act as environmental leaders within their own schools and communities.

School students and young people from the Ampara District engaged directly in the programme, gaining hands-on exposure to environmental responsibility and leadership practices. The initiative provided participants with an understanding of how waste management challenges arise during large cultural and religious events such as the Esala Perahera, and how young people can contribute to addressing those challenges at a community level.

The programme reflected a practical approach to connecting environmental awareness with youth development. By linking waste management education to a well-known local event, the initiative gave participants a relevant and immediate cont…