Project Level Up Phase 01 Empowers Young Leaders in Gampaha
On 12 June 2026 the ZeroPlastic Movement at the University of Kelaniya, through its Professional Development Avenue, delivered Project Level Up Phase 01 at Sri Rathnasara Maha Vidyalaya in Polwaththa, Gampaha. The one day program brought together students from Grades 8 to 11 for an immersive leadership and sustainability experience.
The agenda combined interactive leadership training and team based exercises designed to strengthen communication, decision making, teamwork and self confidence. Practical group challenges encouraged critical thinking and real time leadership, enabling participants to practice skills that transfer directly to school, community and future professional settings.
An environmental awareness session linked leadership to sustainability by presenting actionable ways to reduce plastic pollution. A key milestone was the launch of Beyond the Ink, a pen recycling initiative that promotes responsible disposal and local recycling of used pens within the school community. The initiative underlined how small, system level actions can reinforce civic responsibility among young leaders.
The program reached over 100 direct beneficiaries and more than 200 indirect beneficiaries including teachers and the wider school community. Certificates were presented to all participants in recognition of active engagement and achievement during the program. Sri Rathnasara Maha Vidyalaya partnered with the University of Kelaniya to ensure smooth delivery and local relevance.
The initiative was led by the Strategic Leadership Board headed by Anuradha Dasanayaka, with contributions from Rashmi Raveena and Nimesha Sewwandi. The organizing committee was led by Inoka Hansamali, Kulashinghanadhan Nilakshan and Imaya Saumali, supported by project coordinators Nimasha Piyumanthi and Binuki Wijesinghe.
Project Level Up Phase 01 delivered measurable impact by building leadership capabilities and increasing sustainability awareness among young people. By combining skills development with an environmentally focused action, the program provided participants with both the confidence and the tools to lead positive change in their schools and communities.
