Workshop for the Youth Representatives of five Sectoral Oversight Committees on the theme ‘Youth Engagement in Legislative Activities Towards Sustainable Democracy’

The Parliament of Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) conducted a Workshop for the Youth Representatives of five Sectoral Oversight Committees on the theme ‘Youth Engagement in Legislative Activities Towards Sustainable Democracy’ on 25th June in Colombo.

The workshop was organized with the objective of enhancing the understanding of the scope of the Sectoral Oversight Committees and the role of youth representatives assigned to the Sectoral Oversight Committees on Environment, Natural Resources and Sustainable Development; Energy and Transport; Health; Open and Accountable Government and International Relations.

The Sectoral Oversight Committees were appointed by the Parliament on a broad range of subjects and functions to provide oversight on the effectiveness and implementation of policies and legislation and to formulate alternative policies and legislation, where necessary.

Delivering the Key Note Presentation at the Workshop, the Director General of the Sustainable Development Council, Chamindry Saparamadu highlighted Sri Lanka’s progress in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), gaps and challenges, key national policies, plans and sustainable financing initiatives currently being implemented as well as key strategies to enhance youth engagement in parliamentary activities and sustainable development processes in the country.

The workshop was graced by the Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Mahinda Yapa Abeywardhane and the Secretary General of Parliament, Ms. Kushani Rohanadheera who also addressed the audience. The chairs of the respective Sectoral Oversight Committees, Hon. Ajith Manapperuma, Hon. Nalaka Kottegoda, Hon.Mayantha Dissnayake, Hon. Jagath Kumara Sumithraaarachchi and Hon. Madura Vithanage were also present at the occasion.

The workshop was attended by over 100 youth representatives assigned to the five Sectoral Oversight Committees in Parliament.