First Phase Targets Schools and Religious Centres in Ratnapura
Ratnapura, Sri Lanka – 19 October 2025
The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation), in collaboration with the Shri Hela Cultural Collaboration Foundation (SHCCF), has officially launched the first phase of the 100,000 Tree Planting Project in Ratnapura. The initiative, which aligns with the European Union’s Climate Pact, focuses on educational and religious institutions as key partners in addressing the global climate crisis.
The inaugural ceremony was held at St. Aloysius’ College in Ratnapura, coinciding with the institution’s 127th anniversary celebrations. The project’s opening activities were conducted simultaneously at three locations — St. Aloysius’ College, Ratnapura Maulli Kovil, and the Ananda Maithree Sangharaja Maha Viharaya in Ratnapura New Town.
Under the leadership of Mr. Anura Vitharana, Regional Coordinator for IHRC and President of the IHRC–SHCCF Environmental Protection Project, the program was organised with precision and community involvement. Students from the St. Aloysius’ College Scout Group played an active role, providing both labour and enthusiasm to ensure the project’s successful start.
“We are doing this for the future generation”
Addressing the participants, Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, Commissioner of Sri Lanka for IHRC Corporation and Founder & Director General of SHCCF, stressed the urgency of global environmental action.
“The world is currently facing a massive challenge due to climate change. In response to this crisis, the International Human Rights Commission is actively implementing initiatives globally in line with the European Union’s Climate Pact. This 100,000 tree planting project in Sri Lanka is one such programme,”
said Dr. Dissanayake.
He reaffirmed IHRC’s long-term commitment to sustainable development, adding:
“We are doing all of this for the future generation, and we are committed at any moment to creating a safe environment for them.”
Dr. Dissanayake also extended warm congratulations to St. Aloysius’ College on its milestone anniversary, underlining IHRC’s readiness for continued collaboration with local institutions.
Community support and interfaith cooperation
The event brought together representatives from diverse faiths and institutions. Blessings were bestowed upon the gathering by Ven. Delwala Muditha Nayaka Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Ananda Maithree Sangharaja Maha Viharaya, and M. Mugunan Sami of the Ratnapura Maulli Kovil, symbolising harmony and shared responsibility for the environment.
Distinguished attendees included IHRC Commissioner Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, IHRC SMM ZVC Mr. Anura Witharana, Mr. Kalpa Sri Lal, Mr. Pathum Madushan, Mr. Vihanga Dayawansa, and Dr. Ravi Naggaraja, Vice President of the United Nations Association. The Provincial Director of Education and several local dignitaries also honoured the ceremony with their presence.
The people of Ratnapura played a vital role in the project’s success, providing the saplings used in the tree planting. In recognition of their contributions, IHRC presented certificates of appreciation to all participants and partners.
This initiative represents not only an environmental milestone but also a testament to IHRC’s global mission of fostering intergovernmental cooperation, civic responsibility, and the preservation of natural ecosystems for generations to come.
Reported by:
Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake
Commissioner of Sri Lanka – Investigative Journalist, IHRC
Photographs by: Pethum Madhushan
As Founder & CEO of YouthBuild Sierra Leone, I commend IHRC and its partners for advancing the 100,000 Tree Planting Project in Ratnapura. For the past three years, YouthBuild SL has actively engaged young people in tree planting and environmental awareness initiatives as part of our commitment to climate action and sustainable development.
Planting trees is not only an environmental responsibility; it is an investment in future generations. We believe schools and faith-based institutions are powerful platforms for nurturing environmental stewardship, civic responsibility, and intergenerational solidarity.
We look forward to continued collaboration that empowers youth to become custodians of our planet.
Chaplain Mohamed Robinson Sesay
Founder & CEO, YouthBuild Sierra Leone
As Founder & CEO of YouthBuild Sierra Leone, I commend IHRC and its partners for advancing the 100,000 Tree Planting Project in Ratnapura. For the past three years, YouthBuild SL has actively engaged young people in tree planting and environmental awareness initiatives as part of our commitment to climate action and sustainable development.
Planting trees is not only an environmental responsibility — it is an investment in future generations. We believe schools and faith-based institutions are powerful platforms for nurturing environmental stewardship, civic responsibility, and intergenerational solidarity.
We look forward to continued collaboration that empowers youth to become custodians of our planet.
Chaplain Mohamed Robinson Sesay
Founder & CEO, YouthBuild Sierra Leone
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