The University of Peradeniya took a step toward fostering inclusive dialogue and awareness on gender-based issues by hosting a powerful film screening event under the national ELEVATE project on 24th April 2025 from 3 pm onwards at University of Peradeniya. Organized by the university’s Sexual and Gender-based Harassment and Sexual Violence Prevention Committee (SGBVC), in collaboration with the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Center for Media Information and Literacy (CMIL), the event was a compelling demonstration of youth-led advocacy through visual storytelling.
Held at the Art Theatre of the Faculty of Arts, the event drew a wide audience comprising undergraduate students, academic and non-academic staff, and other stakeholders. The screening featured 10 short films produced under the ELEVATE initiative, including contributions from the University of Peradeniya itself. These films explored deeply important and sensitive themes such as period poverty, abortion rights, sexual harassment, intimate partner violence, LGBTIQ+ rights, and the stigmatization and stereotyping faced by marginalized groups in society. Each narrative served to provoke thought, promote empathy, and initiate critical conversations among attendees.
ELEVATE (Empowering Learning Environments to Value and Advance Tolerance and Equity) is a nationwide initiative jointly implemented by the UGC and CMIL. It aims to create safer, more inclusive university environments by promoting understanding of sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) and addressing various forms of gender-based violence, particularly within digital spaces. The project has facilitated the production of 25 short films across Sri Lankan state universities, giving students a platform to creatively voice pressing social concerns.
The program commenced with a welcome address by Professor Eresha Mendis, Chairperson of the SGBVC, who reiterated the university’s commitment to upholding gender equity and student well-being. Ms. Isuri Abeykoone, Program Manager of the ELEVATE initiative, provided an overview of the project’s objectives, underscoring the importance of media as a tool for advocacy and education on issues that are often shrouded in silence.
Chief Guest Professor Ranjith Pallegama praised the initiative, emphasizing the urgent need to address gender-based violence and digital abuse in university settings. Mr. Ramesh De Silva, General Manager of Future World, commended the creative approach of the project, noting its power to foster digital literacy, empathy, and responsible citizenship.
A robust panel discussion followed the screening, chaired by Dr. Wijaya Jayathilake. The distinguished panel included Emeritus Professor Kamala Liyanage, Dr. Kalana Senaratne, and Dr. Poornika Seelagama. Their discourse critically engaged with topics raised in the films and explored their relevance to both policy and lived experiences in the university context.
In her vote of thanks, Dr. Udari Abeysinghe, Secretary of the SGBVC, extended sincere appreciation to all contributors, panelists, students, and organizers who made the event a success. She further highlighted the importance of continued collaboration to ensure that future initiatives carry forward the momentum generated by the ELEVATE project.
The University of Peradeniya’s ELEVATE Film Screening event marked a significant milestone in the university’s efforts to encourage open dialogue, empower student voices, and strengthen a culture of respect, safety, and equity within higher education.
