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IHRC Corporation Sri Lanka Unites with Community Leaders to Lead Major Humanitarian Missions During National Crisis

Dawid Szablowski — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 12:30:53 +0000

DEHIOWITA, SRI LANKA — In response to the recent national disaster, the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Corporation) has taken a leading role in coordinating large-scale humanitarian assistance across affected regions of Sri Lanka, working in close partnership with local community leaders and volunteer networks.

On 3 December 2025, the International Human Rights Commission joined forces with the Embilipitiya “Senehasa” Benevolent Forum and local community representatives to deliver essential humanitarian relief to displaced families in Dehiowita and Thalduwa. The mission resulted in the distribution of dry rations and emergency supplies valued at over LKR 2.5 million, directly supporting families impacted by the disaster.

The Power of Collective Humanity

The humanitarian operation was coordinated by Mr. Pradeep Kumara Rathnayake, IHRC Volunteer Coordinator, who underlined that the success of the mission was rooted in collective civic responsibility rather than individual effort.

“The youth and residents of Embilipitiya worked together as one family, treating every affected person as their own brother or sister. Their selfless dedication formed the backbone of this mission.” Mr. Rathnayake stated.

Local volunteers played a critical role in logistics, distribution, and on-the-ground coordination, ensuring that aid reached those most in need efficiently and with dignity.

A United Front for Future Relief Efforts

Addressing volunteers and community partners, Mr. Rathnayake reaffirmed that the IHRC Special Monitoring Mission will remain fully engaged in future emergency responses, standing alongside local communities during times of national crisis.

The International Human Rights Commission reiterated its commitment to safeguarding human dignity, solidarity, and humanitarian principles, emphasizing that community-led cooperation remains central to effective disaster response and recovery.

Reported by:
Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake
Commissioner of Sri Lanka
Investigative Journalist – IHRC News
International Human Rights Commission

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🌍 International Human Rights Commission Marks Historic Identity Card Ceremony in Sri Lanka

Dawid Szablowski — Sat, 27 Sep 2025 16:32:57 +0000

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – September 12, 2025 – In a landmark event, the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) held its first-ever Identity Card and Official Badge Issuing Ceremony for members in Sri Lanka. The celebration, hosted at the Sampath Hotel in Wennappuwa, welcomed 106 new humanitarian activists representing diverse backgrounds, united under the values of human dignity, equality, and justice.

A Vision of Global Humanitarian Action

The initiative was launched by Prof. h.c. Rafal Marcin Wasik, IHRC Secretary-General, Peacemaker and coordinated globally by Mr. Dawid Szabłowski, Director of International Relations and Media. Together, they emphasised the role of Sri Lanka as a key partner in building a worldwide network of humanitarian activists.

Sri Lanka’s Leadership in Action

The recruitment and coordination of the first national group were led by Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, IHRC Commissioner and National Volunteer Coordinator. Addressing the new members, he underlined the mission of IHRC in Sri Lanka and the international solidarity that supports its growth.

Training and Capacity Building

The event combined the ceremonial presentation of ID cards and badges with a special training session, where distinguished experts shared insights:

Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake – Humanitarian Mission of IHRC and its international support.
Mr. Rohan Muthumala (Lawyer & Unofficial Magistrate of Marawila) – Sri Lankan and International Civil Law in defence of human rights.
Dr. Jayaruwan Bandara (IHRC Regional Coordinator & Assistant Director, National Eye Hospital) – Leadership qualities for humanitarian activists.
Dr. Madhavi Bandara (IHRC Regional Coordinator & Senior Psychologist) – The humanitarian mission within human rights.
Dr. Grayson Jayawardena (Consultant Physician, Chilaw National Hospital) – Humanitarian response during national disasters.

Recognising Excellence

During the ceremony, five distinguished individuals were presented with the “Shri Hela Golden Award” for their exceptional contributions to humanitarian service.

Looking Ahead

The IHRC announced that the next welcoming ceremony for a new group of activists will be personally presided over by Prof. h.c. Rafael Wasik, underscoring IHRC’s long-term commitment to Sri Lanka and the region.

“By empowering dedicated humanitarian activists, we are building a stronger foundation for justice, solidarity, and peace in Sri Lanka and beyond.” – IHRC statement.

Reported by:
Dr. Chrishantha JKM Dissanayake
Commissioner of Sri Lanka – IHRC Alliance
Investigative Journalist – IHRC News

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🌿 “A Path to a Beautiful Life” in Sri Lanka

Dawid Szablowski — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 11:41:45 +0000

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

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🌱 International Human Rights Commission and Sri Hela Cultural Foundation Launch Ambitious Tree Planting Project in Sri Lanka

Dawid Szablowski — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 20:35:50 +0000

Aiming for 100,000 Saplings in Support of Climate Neutrality by 2050

Ratnapura District, Sri Lanka – 11 July 2025

IHRC and Sri Hela Foundation Unite for Environmental Action

The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC), in partnership with the Sri Hela Cultural Cooperation Foundation, has officially launched a large-scale tree planting initiative in Sri Lanka. The project, which commenced on 11 July 2025 in Diyahondawewa village, Kuruwita Divisional Secretariat, Ratnapura District, aims to plant 100,000 saplings as a concrete step toward combating climate change and fostering environmental stewardship. The initiative aligns with the European Climate Agreement’s target of achieving climate neutrality by 2050.

Leadership and Community Engagement

The project operates under the direct supervision of Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, Commissioner for Sri Lanka at the International Human Rights Commission. Titled “Let’s Plant a Sapling to Give the Future Generation a Breath,” the programme will gradually expand to other regions of Sri Lanka.
Mr. Anura Witarana, IHRC Zonal Coordinator, has been appointed Chairman of the project and will lead its day-to-day execution and community mobilisation.

“Human rights are not just a legal matter. The International Human Rights Commission stands for all human rights, and we are at the forefront of world peace and humanitarian missions. We will step forward and assist in such humanitarian missions at any moment.”
— Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, Commissioner, IHRC Sri Lanka / Founder and Chairman, Sri Hela Cultural Cooperation Foundation

Broad Participation and Recognition

The launch event was attended by key figures, including Dr. Dissanayake (also Founder/Chairman/Director-General of the Sri Hela Cultural Foundation), the Divisional Secretary of Kuruwita, the Officer-in-Charge of Kuruwita Police, regional and zonal IHRC coordinators, volunteers, and representatives of Diyahondawewa village – including the Grama Niladhari, a development officer, farmer’s society officials, and local villagers.
Notable participants included: Mr. S. Prabakar, Mr. Anura Vitharana, Mr. Udara Rathnayake, Mr. Vihaga Deshapriya, Mrs. Nisansala Wijekoon, Mrs. Dilki Saumya, Mr. Sarath Kumara, and others.

As a mark of appreciation, all participants received official certificates signed by Prof. Rafael Wasik, Secretary of the International Human Rights Commission, and Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake.

A Commitment to Future Generations

This tree planting initiative reflects IHRC’s belief that environmental protection is a fundamental human right and a pillar of global peace and sustainable development. By engaging communities, authorities, and civil society, IHRC and the Sri Hela Cultural Foundation aim to leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

Reported by:

Anura Vitharana
Zonal Volunteer Coordinator – IHRC Sri Lanka

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🏆 Quality Education Emphasized at SLIPSSD 2025 Awards

Dawid Szablowski — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 09:36:27 +0000

Ceremony attended by IHRC Commissioner as Chief Guest

June 8, 2025, Sabaragamuwa, Sri Lanka

Celebrating Academic Excellence

The Sri Lanka Institute of Professional Studies and Skills Development (SLIPSSD) celebrated the academic achievements of 700 students at its 2025 Education Awards Ceremony. The prestigious event was held at the Sabaragamuwa Provincial Council Auditorium, gathering numerous representatives from educational institutions and humanitarian organizations.

Distinguished IHRC Chief Guest

The Chief Guest of the event was Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, the Sri Lanka Commissioner for the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Alliance). Dr. Dissanayake is also the Founder, Chairman, and Director General of the Shri Hela Cultural Collaboration Foundation and the Higher Education Academy. In his address, he highlighted the essential importance of quality education:

“The International Human Rights Commission remains unwavering in its commitment to achieving educational goals, fostering an environment where quality learning thrives.”

Event Patronage

The ceremony was held under the patronage of Dr. Madhavi Bandara, Senior Executive Director of SLIPSSD. The Institute was established by the government of Sri Lanka to provide quality education to students across the country.

Esteemed Attendees

Other respected attendees included SLIPSSD lecturers Mrs. Indika Sirinilame, Dr. Madhavi Bandara, Mrs. Gayathri Jayawardena, and Mrs. Kanthi Godagamuwa. The IHRC was represented by regional coordinators Mr. Anura Vitarana, Mr. Kamal Abeywardena, and Mr. Jayatissa Athaudahetti. School principals and teachers from various regions also attended the event.

Education as a Foundation for Collaboration

This ceremony was not only an occasion to acknowledge the outstanding achievements of students but also emphasized the crucial role of education in the social and humanitarian development of the country. IHRC continues its mission of supporting educational projects, prioritizing human rights and access to knowledge.

Author:
Induwara Bandara
Zonal Coordinator, IHRC SMM Sri Lanka

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IHRC and Shri Hela Foundation Offer Full Scholarships for English Diploma to 3000 Sri Lankan Student

Dawid Szablowski — Sat, 04 Jan 2025 16:41:42 +0000

With the full support of the International Human Rights Commission -IHRC and the Shri Hela Cultural Collaboration Foundation, the Shri Hela Higher Education Academy is preparing to offer the 1 Year SHHEA Diploma in Propersonal English course worth Rs. 40,000 to 3,000 Sri Lankan students with full scholarships.

With the aim of achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, everything is now ready to bring this course to the public through the Shri Hela Higher Education Academy, with the aim of enabling low-income students and professionals in Sri Lanka to achieve their life goals and conquer the world by expanding their English knowledge and joining the international community.

According to a concept by Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, the Sri Lanka Commissioner of the International Human Rights Commission, Founder / Chairman / Director General of the Shri Hela Higher Education Academy and the Shri Hela Cultural Collaboration Foundation, with the aim of achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, this course is now ready to be brought to the public through the Shri Hela Higher Education Academy with the aim of enabling low-income students and professionals in Sri Lanka to achieve their life goals and conquer the world by expanding their English knowledge, which is lacking, and joining the international community.

This course is designed to target the Cambridge English B2, C1 exam and is conducted by the Shri Hela Higher Education Academy and Kingsway Language Center.

The lecturers for this Diploma course are:

MR. JAYATISSA ATHAUDAHETTI.
He brings over 30 years of distinguished experience in English education. Having studied at the British Council and earned a National Diploma in English from the Government Technical College, he is also certified by Cambridge University with FCE and TKT qualifications. Jayatissa has prepared countless candidates for Cambridge University exams, including young learners, CAE, CPE, TKT, BEC, and IELTS.

DR. MERRIaL PEIRIS
Ph.D – University of Colombo
M.Phil – University of Colombo
M.Ed (TESOL)
PGDE (TESL)
B.A – University of Kelaniya
Teacher Training Certificate

MR. V.G.C. NALEEN.
BA in English and ELT (OUSL)
MA in TESL (PGIE) (Reading)
DIT (UCSC)
CC, CL (Toastmaster International – USA)

MR. NEEL JAYASINGHE
BA in English, MA in Linguistics (English), M.Phil (English), Post Graduate Diploma in English, Diploma in English for Professionals, Diploma in English for Teacher Educators, Certificate Course in Linguistics, Certificate Course in Teaching Grammar.

The first phase of this program, fully sponsored by the International Human Rights Commission -IHRC and the Sri Hela Cultural Cooperation Foundation, is scheduled to begin classes for 300 students on January 5, 2025.

“Because what we do today, we do for Generations”

Reported:
Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake
Commissioner of Sri Lanka
International Human Rights Commission
IHRC News – Investigative journalist

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IHRC Commissioner of Sri Lanka was the chief guest for the MEDIAPULSS ACADEMY Kandyan Arrival

Dawid Szablowski — Thu, 02 Jan 2025 13:10:08 +0000

To make the dream of photography a reality, which is limited to the dreams of those who dream of photography in Sri Lanka, “Mediapulss Academy Kandyan Arrival 2025” was inaugurated in Kandy with a grand ceremony.

This course was initiated with the aim of producing skilled professional photographers, as per the concept of the Honorable Director of Mediapulss Academy, Mr. Deshabandu Lahiru Wanigasekera. The inaugural ceremony of this photography course in Kandy was held at the Pushpadana Hall, Kandy under the patronage of the Sri Lanka Commissioner of the International Human Rights Commission, the Course Promoter and Coordinator of the Institute of Professional Studies & Skills Developmen Sri Lanka and the Founder / Chairman / Director General of the Shri Hela Cultural Collaboration Foundation and the Shri Hela Higher Education Academy, the Drug Prevention and Rehabilitation Counselor, Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake. For this occasion, the Director of Social Services and Welfare of the Shri Hela Cultural Cooperation Foundation, Coordinating Member of the International Human Rights Commission, Mr. Dhammika Sisira Kumara , as well as senior photographers from the Kandy, experts in the field, and many beloved children and young people who are exploring new paths in the path of photography, marked a very successful inauguration.

On this occasion, the Sri Lanka Commissioner of the International Human Rights Commission, Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, addressed the students and guests present and said that the International Human Rights Commission is committed to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Anyone who seeks the right education to succeed in their lives will be provided with the full support of the International Human Rights Commission as well as international connections for further education. The Director of Media Pulse, Mr. Deshamanya Lahiru Wanigasekera, and the team who are carrying out this valuable task were congratulated by the International Human Rights Commission.

Reported:
Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake.
IHRC Commissioner of Sri Lanka
IHRC Press Journalist

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