The University of Peradeniya’s Sexual and Gender-based Harassment and Sexual Violence Prevention Committee (SGBVC) successfully conducted an Awareness Program on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) on March 3, 2025, at the Senate Room, University of Peradeniya. Targeting members of the SGBVC, the program aimed to enhance understanding of SGBV, discuss institutional policies, and explore effective strategies for prevention and intervention. The event commenced with a welcome address by Prof. Eresha Mendis, Chairperson of SGBVC.
The program featured insightful sessions by leading academics and experts in the field:
• Prof. Kamala Liyanage on “Addressing Sexual and Gender Based Harassment and Violence in Higher Educational Institutions.”
• Prof. Vasanthi Thevanesam on “Newly Drafted SGBV Policy and Future Directions for Committee Actions.”
• Dr. Kalana Senaratne on “Preventing Sexual Harassment: The Legal Dimension.”
• Dr. Wijaya Jayatilaka on “Engaging Men in Eradicating SGBV.”
• Dr. Asanka Bulathwatta on “The Psychological Underpinnings of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence: Understanding Causes, Consequences, and Interventions.”
The program concluded with an engaging Q&A session. This initiative reinforces the university’s commitment to fostering a safer and more inclusive academic environment by strengthening SGBV prevention mechanisms and policy implementation.
