IHRC and Shri Hela Higher Education Academy Launch Psychological Counseling Program
📅 17 July 2025
📍 Kurunegala, Sri Lanka
Addressing Mental Health Through Education
The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Alliance), together with the Shri Hela Higher Education Academy, inaugurated a new psychological counseling program series titled “A Path to a Beautiful Life”. The initiative aims to confront the growing mental health challenges affecting adults, youth, and children across modern society.
The first program took place on Thursday, 17 July 2025, at the Panala Divisional Secretariat’s Town Hall in Kurunegala. It was organized in collaboration with the Panala Gnana Pradeepa Library’s Readers’ Club, the Institute of Professional Studies and Skills Development Sri Lanka, the International Human Rights Commission, and the Shri Hela Cultural Collaboration Foundation.
Expert-Led Training
The session was conducted by Dr. Madhavi Bandara, a respected psychological counselor, former university lecturer, and Senior Executive Director of the Institute of Professional Studies and Skills Development Sri Lanka. Dr. Bandara, who also serves as Regional Coordinator for IHRC Alliance – Sri Lanka, holds an extensive academic background with degrees in English, Linguistics, Education, and Psychology, including a PhD.
Her training focused on equipping professionals—counseling teachers, disciplinary officers, police representatives, and government field officers—with tools to identify early signs of mental health difficulties and provide first-line support.
“Counselors and frontline officers play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of our communities. Their guidance can transform lives and create pathways to resilience.”
Wide Participation and Community Engagement
The program gathered over 480 participants from the Girulla Educational Zone, including:
- Principals and teachers,
- Police officers from the Kandanegedara Police Station,
- Preschool educators,
- Human resources counselors from local industries.
Organizational support was provided by the Girulla Educational Zone Office’s counseling division and the Panala Gnana Pradeepa Library.
IHRC Commitment
Speaking at the event, Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, Commissioner of IHRC Alliance – Sri Lanka, highlighted the Commission’s dedication to human health and social development:
“You are the pioneers in transforming and healing our society. The International Human Rights Commission will stand with you and assist you in any challenges you face in this journey.”
This pledge underscores IHRC’s ongoing commitment to supporting counselors, educators, and frontline workers who address the pressing mental health needs of society.
Distinguished Attendees
The ceremony was attended by a wide range of dignitaries and officials, including:
- Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake – Commissioner, IHRC Alliance Sri Lanka; Founder/Chairman, Shri Hela Higher Education Academy and Cultural Collaboration Foundation,
- Dr. Madhavi Bandara – Regional Coordinator, IHRC Alliance Sri Lanka,
- Miss. Nirosha – Psychology Lecturer, IPSSD,
- Mrs. Neluka Chandrapala – Assistant Zonal Director of Education, Girulla,
- Local government, police, education leaders, IHRC coordinators, and community representatives.
Their presence reflected the multi-sectoral importance of mental health education, bridging government, education, and humanitarian sectors.
Building a Healthier Future
The “A Path to a Beautiful Life” initiative highlights the importance of psychological counseling as an essential element of education and social stability. By raising awareness, training professionals, and empowering communities, the program stands as a pioneering step towards addressing mental health in Sri Lanka.
✍️ Reported by:
Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake
IHRC Commissioner of Sri Lanka,
IHRC Press Investigative Journalist
International Human Rights Commission
This initiative is a remarkable step towards integrating mental health into the broader framework of human rights and social development. Addressing psychological well-being through education not only empowers individuals but also strengthens entire communities. The collaboration between educators, counselors, law enforcement, and local leaders demonstrates the holistic approach needed to confront today’s mental health challenges.
As a human rights lawyer, I believe programs like “A Path to a Beautiful Life” reflect the core principle that mental health is an inseparable part of human dignity and fundamental rights. Equipping frontline officers, teachers, and counselors with the skills to identify and support those in need will foster resilience, reduce stigma, and ensure that no individual is left behind.
The IHRC’s dedication to supporting such initiatives reinforces its mission of protecting both the rights and well-being of people. I commend this effort and look forward to seeing its positive impact on the lives of children, youth, and adults across Sri Lanka and beyond.