9 July, 2024, Colombo 

by Isuri Abeykoone 

Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) and Cyber Gender-Based Violence (CGBV) present significant challenges within the Sri Lankan government university system. Professor Carmen S. Wickramagamage from the University of Peradeniya notes that CGBV is somewhat discussed within the system, but there has been less recognition and dialogue around the SRHR of university students. During her guest lecture, she emphasized the urgent need to pay more attention to the SRHR of female students, highlighting issues such as period poverty, menstrual stigma, safe abortion for victims of sexual violence, access to SRHR services, and comprehensive SRHR education. Professor Carmen stressed the decisive role of culture in determining women’s SRHR rights in general. She further pointed out that the current female student population in state universities comprises 65% of the total student population, with a female-to-male ratio of 6 to 1 in Arts and Law. However, she noted that university student union leadership positions are predominantly held by men. Despite the low number of male students, or perhaps because of it, female students face many forms of sexual exploitation and violence. 

Professor Carmen further highlighted the fact that efforts to promote gender equality, empower students to understand their rights, and foster a safe and inclusive campus environment are crucial to addressing SRHR and CGBV challenges in Sri Lankan government universities. 

In pursuit of these objectives, the Centre for Media and Information Literacy organized a residential training workshop on short filmmaking from July 4th to July 7th, 2024, at the Swiss Residences Hotel in Kandy, initiating a four-day journey for aspiring filmmakers. Twenty-four female undergraduates passionate about learning the art of making short films using their smartphones attended this training. The workshop aimed to immerse participants in filmmaking, covering everything from conceptualizing SRHR and CGBV story ideas to developing robust film scripts. It was uniquely themed around addressing CGBV and SRHR through mobile filmmaking, empowering participants to create impactful narratives on these critical issues. 

Conducted by lead trainer Professor Indika Ferdinando, a renowned film director and the Dean of the Faculty of Visual and Performing Arts, the workshop explored the fundamentals of cinema and the unique characteristics of short films. Engaging sessions on mobile filmmaking highlighted its advantages and limitations, demonstrating how storytelling can be powerful even with minimal resources. Brainstorming exercises encouraged creativity, allowing participants to generate and develop innovative film concepts on SRHR and CGBV. Two female trainers, Ms. Fathima Shanaz from the University of Colombo and Chathurangi Abeshika from the University of Visual and Performing Arts, served as co-trainers.

Guest speaker Professor Carmen S. Wickramagamage from the University of Peradeniya emphasized the importance of addressing SRHR for women in Sri Lanka, stating, “SRHR issues are critical, especially for undergraduates who face numerous challenges due to male students and, in some cases, staff abusing the power associated with gender and, in the case of staff, their higher position in the university hierarchy. When female graduate students face harassment and sexual abuse, it is unfortunate that they feel unsafe but are reluctant to complain. These incidents subject them to culturally charged questions regarding their attire, presence, and behavior, discouraging them from seeking justice.” Professor Carmen stressed the need for a robust system to address intimate partner violence, sexual harassment, stigma surrounding reproductive health services, and barriers to accessing confidential and affordable healthcare resources on campus. She also highlighted the sexualized nature of ragging, noting its persistence despite laws and university policies, affecting female graduates psychologically and calling for safe spaces where such issues can be openly discussed. 

Professor Indika expressed his enthusiasm for mobile filmmaking: “Filmmaking isn’t just about capturing visuals; it’s about weaving stories that resonate with the human experience. This workshop offers you a chance to find your voice and express it through the powerful medium of film. Mobile filmmaking democratizes the art form, allowing anyone with a smartphone to tell their story. This accessibility fosters creativity and innovation, providing a platform for voices that might otherwise go unheard.” 

Participants found the workshop incredibly insightful, appreciating practical advice on mobile filmmaking that enhanced their skills and empowered them to address critical issues like CGBV and SRHR through professional-quality films made with minimal resources. They particularly valued the interactive and inspiring nature of the brainstorming sessions, which spurred the rapid emergence of creative ideas. These sessions not only fostered creativity but also equipped participants with innovative approaches to shed light on and combat CGBV and promote SRHR awareness effectively within the university community. 

Divaincy Fernando, a participant from Trincomalee campus, emphasized the workshop’s importance in addressing SRHR and CGBV: “Discussing SRHR and CGBV in the university sphere is crucial, especially in today’s digital age where issues like online harassment and cyberbullying are often overlooked. This workshop empowers us to use filmmaking as a tool to raise awareness and drive change. It’s a powerful way to give voice to those affected and educate others on these critical matters within the university system.” Another attendee added, “The workshop has opened my eyes to the power of filmmaking in addressing sensitive issues like SRHR and CGBV. The sessions on mobile filmmaking have been especially valuable, showing us that we can create impactful films even with limited resources.” 

With a focus on hands-on learning, the Elevate Residential Workshop promised to be an enriching experience for all participants. Now equipped with the skills gained from the workshop, participants are prepared to direct their films and make a meaningful impact on university communities and society as a whole.