Posts in category: Success Stories

LEADS expresses its deepest condolences to the family of 23-year-old Charith Dilshan, a second-year student from the Department of Engineering Technology, Faculty of Technology at Sabaragamuwa University. Charith reportedly died by suicide on 29 April at his home in Gampola, under circumstances allegedly linked to ragging.

According to a complaint filed with the Samanalawewa Police by a fellow student, Charith had been subjected to severe humiliation during the university’s Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations. His family and friends also believe that this degrading treatment may have led to his untimely death.

While acknowledging the steps taken thus far, by the authorities including the appointment of a three-member internal committee by the Vice-Chancellor of Sabaragamuwa University, an ongoing police investigation, a parallel inquiry initiated by the Ministry of Higher Education and Vocational Education in coordination with the University Grants Commission, LEADS emphasises that investigations alone will not bring justice or meaningful change unless they lead to impartial decisions, genuine accountability, and sustained preventive measures.

Sri Lanka’s Prohibition of Ragging and Other Forms of Violence in Educational Institutions Act, No. 20 of 1998, affirms a clear policy commitment to abolish ragging and all forms of violence, including humiliation and cruelty. Ragging is a distinct and criminal offence under this law and must be enforced rigorously and uniformly.

It is also important to recognise that students who engage in ragging are often victims of abuse themselves, whether through their own experiences of ragging or through exposure to violence in their formative years. These unresolved traumas can manifest as harmful behaviour towards others. Addressing ragging, therefore, requires both accountability and a compassionate, trauma-informed approach.

“We call on all universities and higher education institutions to adopt and implement stringent anti-ragging policies that go beyond mere statements. These must include robust enforcement, regular monitoring, safe reporting mechanisms, psychosocial support for both victims and perpetrators, and transformative education to end this cycle of violence. LEADS urges relevant authorities, university administrations, and civil society to act collectively and decisively. The death of Charith Dilshan must not become just another statistic—it must become a turning point in the fight to end ragging and all forms of abuse in educational institutions,” said Monroe Jayasuriya, CEO of LEADS.

LEADS is a leading child protection agency in Sri Lanka since 1983, has played a pivotal role in preventing violence against children, providing care, rehabilitation, psychological support, emergency response and advocating for cruelty free, child-friendly policies in Sri Lanka.

On the sunny morning of April 5th, joy, laughter, and a sense of community filled the air in Mattakkuliya as LEADS, in collaboration with Asia Securities, hosted a much-needed Sports Day for over 100 underprivileged children in the area. It was a day designed to create cherished memories and offer these deserving children a break from life’s challenges, with activities that were both entertaining and enriching.

The Sports Day saw children engaging in a range of exciting games and activities, which brought smiles to their faces and ignited their playful spirits. From running races to team games, the grounds were alive with enthusiasm and laughter. The excitement didn’t stop there—gift bags were distributed to each child, packed with goodies to extend the joy long after the event.

LEADS staff and the dedicated team of Asia Securities, including volunteers, played a vital role in ensuring the event was a success. They not only organized and facilitated the games but also actively participated, creating a warm and inclusive environment. The day was further enhanced by the provision of delicious food and refreshing drinks, ensuring the children were fueled for all the fun and frolic.

The Sports Day in Mattakkuliya wasn’t just an event; it was a celebration of hope, kindness, and community spirit. It was a reminder that small efforts can lead to big smiles and lasting impact, especially for children who deserve every bit of happiness.

Together, let’s continue to create spaces where every child feels valued, loved, and empowered to dream big!

At LEADS child protection lies at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to supporting child survivors of abuse through holistic and long-term care primarily in the Western, Northern, and Uva Provinces of Sri Lanka.  Having established therapeutic centres in the Western and Northern Provinces, there was an urgent need for a dedicated centre in the Uva Province. The opening of the Kedella Respite Therapeutic Care Centre in Mahiyanganaya fulfils this long-awaited need, ensuring that children in the Uva Province now have access to the specialised care they deserve. 

The opening of the Kedella Centre marks a significant step forward in this journey. The grand opening in February was a heartwarming occasion, attended by officials from the Department of Probation and Child Care Services, the Health Department, the Police Children and Women Bureau, the Child Rights Promotion Office of Uva Province, and LEADS Management and staff. It stands today as a symbol of hope — a safe haven where young survivors can heal, grow, and thrive.  

The centre offers residential facilities for up to 12 child survivors of abuse. Here, children are supported through LEADS’ unique Restorative Model — a holistic framework designed to empower survivors and prepare them for a smooth reintegration into their communities. This model focuses on five key areas: 

1. Counselling and therapy 

2. Family strengthening 

3. Legal support 

4. Reintegration support 

5. Follow-up services 

By addressing each child’s emotional, familial, legal, and social needs, LEADS ensures that their journey towards healing is complete and sustainable. Children not only find safety and support at Kedella, but also the strength and resilience needed to build brighter futures. 

Sewwandhi, a 15-year-old girl from an impoverished family, grew up in a turbulent household. Her father’s addiction to drugs and alcohol created constant conflict at home. Her unemployed mother often left with Sewwandhi and her younger sister, seeking temporary shelter elsewhere. To support the family, the mother took on daily chores in neighbouring households.

Despite occasionally reconciling with her husband and returning home, she began an affair with one of his drug-addicted friends. This friend introduced her to a 25-year-old man, with whom Sewwandhi developed a close relationship. This new relationship led her to drop out of school, sparking frequent arguments at home. Following a violent dispute, a concerned neighbour called the police. As a result, Sewwandhi, her mother and her younger sister were taken into custody by the Women and Children’s Unit.

Under court order, the children were placed in the care of LEADS at the Kedella counselling centre. Upon her arrival at Kedella, Sewwandhi was severely depressed. Having been separated from her parents for the first time, she struggled with feelings of abandonment and confusion. LEADS assigned her a female counsellor, providing her with the care and emotional support she needed. Additionally, Sewwandhi was taken to the psychiatric unit of the Ragama Hospital every month for treatment.

Counselling sessions were arranged for her parents to mend their strained relationship. These monthly sessions led by LEADS’ professionals offered a glimmer of hope as they slowly worked through their issues. In addition to emotional support, LEADS assisted Sewwandhi in obtaining her National Identity Card and resuming her studies. She was provided with a safe environment to connect with her family, particularly her younger sister, who was living in a Child Development Centre.

After spending three months at Kedella, Sewwandhi showed interest in vocational training in sewing. LEADS assisted her by enrolling her in a year-long course at the Balapitiya Mosvold Vocational Training Educational Institute, covering her course fees and providing the necessary supplies. Regular follow-ups were conducted to ensure her emotional well-being and her psychiatric treatment at Karapitiya hospital continued as well.

Throughout her journey, LEADS consistently supported Sewwandhi, visiting her twice a month, offering counselling and arranging for her to stay at a safe boarding house during holidays. After completing her vocational course, Sewwandhi began a six-month job training and excelled in her final vocational exam.

Her journey didn’t stop there. Sewwandhi also enrolled in a computer course as part of her curriculum. She utilised these new skills to secure a position as a Cashier at Arpico, earning a well-deserved salary that brought her great satisfaction.

Sewwandhi’s resilience is truly inspiring. Her determination to provide her younger sister with the education she missed and to build a stable home for her family showcases her unwavering spirit. Today, she stands as a strength for younger girls facing similar challenges, demonstrating that hope can shine even in the darkest of times.

*The name of the child has been changed to protect her identity.

Little Nimeshika*, lived with her parents and siblings in the Wellawaya district. At the age of 16, she was sexually abused by her own father which left her troubled and hopeless with no direction in life and in severe mental distress.

Through counselling sessions twice a month, LEADS noticed a considerable amount of improvement in her conduct. This led to her reaching her highest potential in academia, so much so that she obtained merit awards for 6 subjects in her examination.

With the results she obtained in high school, she was able to pursue higher education. As she was not permitted to reside in her home legally, LEADS officials were requested to refer Nimeshika to a vocational training centre with accommodation facilities. After informing the probation officers, a suitable centre was found in the Badulla district where she wrote the aptitude test for Nursing. Successful in her exam, she was given a spot in the programme. LEADS supported her in providing the referral and full payment including the entrance fee, facility fee, uniforms and residential facilities of the same institution. LEADS continued to support her until the end of her course while also providing her with necessary medical treatments when she fell ill during the period of her course.  

Nimeshika walked up to receive her cap in the nurse’s capping ceremony with immense happiness. She is currently receiving practical training after successfully completing her degree. Looking back on her journey, she went from being hopeless about her future to now becoming a beacon of hope by serving her community as a healthcare worker.

*The name of the child has been changed to protect her identity.