As the morning sun hit the grounds of CP/Katu Dehideniya M.M.V. on the 18th of May 2026, a vibrant transformation was waiting to unfold. It wasn’t just another ordinary school day, it was the birth of a powerful environmental awakening. The ZeroPlastic University of Peradeniya, through the Research and Development Avenue, stepped into the school premises to launch project “Sparsha,” ensuring that while the students learned, the future of the environment was beautifully reshaped.
The mission commenced with an insightful step. Before the primary awareness sessions began, our dedicated team conducted a comprehensive questionnaire survey among over 130 enthusiastic students. This critical activity turned a standard school day into a moment of true research, helping our organizing team evaluate the students’ existing knowledge and attitudes regarding plastic pollution, waste management, and environmental sustainability.
A pivotal moment arrived during the main educational sessions, where the school community was warmly introduced to the core vision of the ZeroPlastic Movement. Through engaging discussions, our team educated the students on the negative consequences of excessive plastic consumption on ecosystems, animals and public health. The sessions highlighted simple, practical, and everyday eco-friendly habits that students can easily follow to minimize plastic waste and support sustainable living.
The true energy of the day was fueled by a unique and creative segment the Eco-Craft Exhibition, conducted with the active participation of the students. Moving away from traditional plantation activities, this program encouraged students to express their creativity by producing decorative and useful items using recyclable and reusable materials. The exhibition beautifully demonstrated how waste materials can be mindfully transformed into valuable products, sparking teamwork, innovation and a strong sense of environmental responsibility within the school community.
This immense success was steered by our Chair, Ayomal Thalangama, supported by the administrative strength of our Secretary, Dharani Ariyasinghe, and the financial precision of our Treasurer, Geshani Rajapaksha. The strategic public outreach and resource management were seamlessly handled by I. Abisri (PR Coordinator) and T. Ilankumaran (Fundraising Coordinator).
Furthermore, the vibrant on-ground execution was flawlessly managed by our dedicated team of event coordinators, Jayanga Prabodanee, Isanka Wijerathna, Chethana Janani, Buddhima Mannaperuma, Udhayaloginee Thillainathan, S.Sriharan, and Kathirkamanathan Kishanth. Working hand-in-hand with the school’s esteemed Principal, Mr. A.M.R. Ramzeen, and Advisory Teachers, Mrs. W.P.H.D Wickramage and Mrs. A.J.F Jeroosa, our team of 9 dedicated ZeroPlastic volunteers ensured a flawless and engaging experience for all.
This collective effort was visually captured through the artistic lens of our graphic designers, Thoofa Nazhath and Akindu Hansith, and beautifully narrated through the creative storytelling of our content writer, Nayomi Chanika. Every member of the committee played a vital role in ensuring that every educational, logistical and promotional detail resonated with our core values of integrity and sustainability.
As the program successfully concluded, it left behind a school community inspired to think differently about waste. Through project Sparsha, we proved that when the youth lead with creativity and dedication, we move one step closer to a cleaner, healthier, and greener tomorrow.
