A residential workshop on inclusion, reconciliation and social justice was conducted in Colombo under NPC’s project Plural Action for Inclusion, Reconciliation and Social Justice (PAIRS) for 32 youth leaders from 16 District Inter Religious Committees (DIRCs), creating a space for learning, sharing experiences and working together. Participants represented various ethnic groups and religions.

Participants were taught to understand key concepts such as pluralism, inclusion and social justice, focusing on group activities to show how these ideas could be applied in their work. Prof. Nirmal Ranjith Dewasiri from the Department of History at the University of Colombo connected these concepts to historical contexts and the challenges of developing effective reconciliation policies. His insights on the past encouraged participants to engage with the present. Researcher Shashik Dhanushka De Silva shared insights grounded in narratives.

At a cultural event, youth leaders from different districts had the opportunity to connect, share their backgrounds and appreciate the diversity that strengthens their group. They learnt from one another and deepened their understanding of each other’s traditions and experiences, helping to build a sense of unity. The cultural celebration highlighted how diversity enriched their collective identity. Language was not a barrier, allowing everyone to share ideas freely.

Navod Mohiranga, an active youth member from Ratnapura District, said, “Young people directly contribute to the country’s survival. When we think of peace and reconciliation, we imagine everyone sitting together, talking and working together. However, the true essence of reconciliation has not reached the ground level. Reconciliation means respecting everyone’s identity and creating an environment where justice is available for all. Inclusion is the right answer for this.”

Sivaganam Abhirami, a youth leader and lecturer at the University of Jaffna representing Vavuniya District, said, “Even after 30 years of war, there are still unhealed wounds. Admissions are necessary for healing. If inclusion is not possible, the wounds will fester, causing more harm instead of resolution. Everyone deserves equal opportunities and rights. Misunderstandings, mistrust and fear remain due to these unresolved issues.”