As part of ongoing efforts to build sustainable peace through grassroots leadership in post-war Sri Lanka, Caritas Valvuthayam Mannar proudly participated in the “Training for Justice and Peace: Creating Fellowship in Search of Sustainable Peace among Grassroots Leadership (TJP III)”, held from May 2nd to 4th, 2025 at the Jesuit Retreat House, Lewella, Kandy.
This transformative workshop brought together teachers from Mannar District and the Negombo Zone, serving as a platform for inter-district learning, reflection, and collaboration. A total of 15 teachers from the Mannar district took part in the program, deepening their understanding of cultural fluency, post-war challenges, and the role of educators in peacebuilding.
Day 1: Orientation and Vision Building
The workshop commenced on May 2nd with registrations and an orientation session led by Mr. Preman Fernando, setting the tone for three days of introspection and engagement. A documentary showcased possibilities for inter-ethnic and inter-religious collaboration through a shared agricultural initiative, prompting discussion on the importance of coexistence.
Day 2: Deepening Cultural Fluency and Conflict Transformation
On May 3rd, Dr. Sunil W. facilitated multiple sessions on “Cultural Fluency for Conflict Transformation”, empowering participants with tools to navigate and address ethnic and religious tensions in their communities. Through these sessions and exposure activities, participants reflected on Sri Lanka’s complex cultural fabric and envisioned ways to foster harmony at the grassroots.
The day concluded with a screening of a thought-provoking film, reinforcing the day’s learning through visual storytelling.
Day 3: Spotlight on Mannar – Education in a Post-War Reality
The final day featured an insightful session by Rev. Fr. G. A. Arulraj Croos, Director of Caritas Valvuthayam, who shared a moving reflection on the current educational landscape in Mannar. Drawing from decades of grassroots experience, Fr. Arulraj highlighted the deep impact the civil war had on educational infrastructure, student morale, and teacher capacity in the Mannar and Vavuniya districts.
He emphasized that economic instability, widespread poverty, and the lingering psychological scars of war continue to hinder children’s access to quality education. Many families are unable to afford school supplies or tuition, and rural schools still face shortages of trained staff and adequate facilities. However, he also spoke of hope—highlighting the resilience of students and the dedication of teachers who continue to serve as beacons of change.
The workshop concluded with a session on action planning and evaluation, led by Prof. Shirley W., encouraging participants to take the knowledge and inspiration gained back to their schools and communities.
A Step Toward Lasting Peace
The TJP III training workshop served not only as a professional development opportunity but as a call to action for teachers to become peacebuilders and advocates for justice in their classrooms and beyond. Caritas Valvuthayam remains committed to empowering educators and community leaders to transform post-conflict challenges into opportunities for reconciliation and unity.
