The ELEVATE Film Summit at the University of Sri Jayawardanapura brought together academics, legal experts, and filmmakers to discuss pressing social issues through cinema. The event, organized by the CMIL with the Centre for Gender Equality and Equity (CGEE) at the University Grants Commission, featured a screening of nearly 12 short films on sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) and cyber gender-based violence (CGBV). The Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice co-hosted the event, which saw participation from students, academics, and key dignitaries including Professor Shirantha Heenkenda, the Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences of the University, and Senior Lecturer, Udayakumara Amarasinghe, the Head of the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice.

The summit sought to spark critical discussions, using film as a tool for advocacy and change. The screening included films such as Who is Blind? , which portrays the struggles of a blind girl facing an unexpected pregnancy. This film, along with others, highlighted the gaps in institutional support for fundamental needs like menstrual hygiene and bodily autonomy.

The event featured two key panel discussions. The first, chaired by Dr. Anusha Edirisinghe, Dean of the Faculty of Criminal Justice at the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, focused on the intersection of law, gender, and human rights in university settings. Prof. W.M. Dhanapala Wijesinghe, former Head of the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice, emphasized, “Universities should be spaces of enlightenment, yet we remain blind to essential rights such as menstrual hygiene and basic well-being.”

Dr. Chaminda Hunukumbure, Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, discussed reproductive rights, touching on issues like abortion and coercion in intimate partner violence. He stressed, “SDG Goal 5 recognizes comprehensive sexuality education as a fundamental right. If we fail to educate, we fail to protect.”

Legal expert Ms. Sanjeewani Abeykoone (AAL), Director (Law Enforcement) at the National Child Protection Authority, spoke about cyber gender-based violence, highlighting enforcement gaps in laws such as Section 345, which defines sexual harassment. She noted, “The law exists, but enforcement remains a challenge. These discussions must include men, as they are both perpetrators and allies in prevention.”

The second panel, facilitated by Dr. Kaushalya Hewawasam, Senior Lecturer from the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice featured young filmmakers who shared how their work raised awareness on SRHR issues. Nipuni Chethana, inspired by Just a Toffee , created a film addressing menstruation taboos. Dewmi Perera explored body art and identity in Tattoo , while Piyumi Wijegunawardhana focused on menstrual rights in Emergency . Sandani Maleesha highlighted LGBTIQ+ rights in her film Real Me , stating, “For too long, queer voices have been silenced in mainstream media. Film gives us the power to change that narrative.”

The summit underscored the role of cinema in challenging social norms and promoting advocacy. As the event concluded, speakers called for continued conversations on gender and sexuality. With strong institutional support and more training for filmmakers, future projects have the potential to create even greater impact.

Futureworld Sri Lanka, the summit’s equipment sponsorship partner, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting advocacy efforts on SRHR and CGBV, demonstrating the power of technology in driving social change.

The event was graced by Senior Professor Nilanka Renuka De Silva, Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, as the Chief Guest, alongside Prof. Prabha Manuratna, Director for the Centre for Gender Equity/Equality of the University Grants Commission (UGC). Representatives from the Department of Drama, Cinema and Television Studies, the Centre for Gender Studies, and undergraduates from various departments were also in attendance. The event was co-hosted by the Department of Drama, Cinema and Television Studies and the Centre for Gender Studies, University of Kelaniya.

The event included 2 compelling panel discussions. In the first panel discussion, student filmmakers shared their inspirations behind their films.

Vihangi Thennakoon, co-director of “Pain Killer,” spoke about how a real-life struggle in the university medical clinic inspired the film. She explained, “We faced difficulties seeking treatment for a simple vomiting problem. It made us question—how much harder is it for students facing serious medical issues?”

Similarly, Thejani Senathilaka, co-director of “Washroom,” addressed the lack of female washrooms on campus, explaining how inadequate facilities affect students’ dignity and comfort.

Maduwanthi De Silva, director of “Rush Hour,” tackled the stigma surrounding menstruation, urging for open conversations and better access to sanitary products on campus.

Finally, Chamodi Jayakody, director of “View from the Top,” addressed the right to safe abortion, asserting, “Women should not be victimized for seeking an abortion. It is a matter of bodily autonomy, and we need policy-level changes to protect this right.”

Moreover, the second panel discussion featured esteemed academics, chaired by Dr. H.A. Kumudu Sumedha Sanjeewani, with panelists Prof. Anuruddhi Edirisinghe, Dr. Anusha Edirisinghe, and Prof. Patrick Ratnayake. Discussions focused on gender representation, medical ethics, and social empowerment as depicted in the films.

Prof. Anuruddhi Edirisinghe, Director of the Centre for Gender Studies, emphasized gender biases in healthcare and the need for reforms in abortion laws. Dr. Anusha Edirisinghe, Senior Lecturer in Sociology, highlighted how films can break gender stereotypes, noting that sexual harassment remains a major issue in universities.

The audience actively participated, raising key concerns. Mr. Harshana Eranga, Assistant Lecturer from the Department of Drama, Cinema, and Television, addressed LGBTIQ+ representation in Asian contexts, stressing the importance of inclusivity.

The ELEVATE Film Screening Summit at the University of Kelaniya proved that cinema is a powerful tool for advocacy. These films not only challenged gender norms but also amplified the voices of young women advocating for SRHR and CGBV awareness in the univeristies.

The event reinforced the idea that change begins with awareness—and that universities have a responsibility to foster inclusive conversations. The University of Kelaniya Film Summit was not just an event; it was a step toward a more equitable university setting.

The screening featured films created by 50 female students, addressing critical gender-related challenges faced by university students such as intimate partner violence, menstruation, unsafe abortion, and the stigma around gender stereotypes. The event was graced by the Chief Guest, Prof. (Mrs.) Chandravathany G. Devadason, the Rector of the Campus.

Following the screenings, a panel discussion was conducted, chaired by Dr. Pushpika Ganegoda, Senior Lecturer and Head of the Department of Languages and Communication Studies. The panelists included:

1. Ms. Sivapriya Sriram – Senior Lecturer, Communication Studies, Department of Languages and Communication Studies.
2. Dr. Aloysius Britto Ithayaraj – Senior Lecturer in English, Department of Languages and Communication Studies.
3. Dr. V. Ebenezer Breman – Senior Lecturer, Department of Languages and Communication Studies

A key discussion point of the panel discussion was the lack of resources allocated for SRHR policies in universities. Ms. Sivapriya Sriram highlighted the struggles faced by both female students and staff due to inadequate facilities. She referenced one of the short films, ‘Washroom,’ which portrays the lack of proper sanitation for women in universities. She stated, “One of the biggest challenges is resource allocation. The university budget for 2025 is insufficient to meet the needs of all students.”

Dr. Pushpika Ganegoda addressed gender inequality in university housing, noting that male students often receive better hostel facilities despite having fewer students. She questioned outdated student union policies, stating, “Why can’t hostels be shared with separate floors for men and women? Student unions still think in a traditional way.”

In addition, Dr. Breman emphasized the importance of equal female representation in leadership roles across student unions and university committees. He stated, “They believe one woman’s name on a list is enough to represent all women. True representation means equal participation.”

Additionally, the panel discussed the importance of maternity leave for female undergraduates, advocating for proper policies and respect for their rights.

Ms. Sivapriya Sriram suggested that gender discussions should be incorporated into academic courses. She also emphasized the role of the University Grants Commission (UGC) in supporting gender equity initiatives, highlighting the University Gender Equality and Equity Cell and the newly established UGC online portal for reporting gender-based issues.

Dr. Aloysius Britto Ithayaraj stressed the power of research in mainstreaming gender discussions, stating, “Research forums should encourage students to explore gender-related issues and push for policy changes.

The event, coordinated by Mr. Joel Jairus from the Department of Languages and Communication Studies, brought together over 300 students, with an equal amount of participation from male and female to engage in these critical conversations. The discussions underscored the need for stronger policies, increased female leadership, and better resource allocation to create a more gender-equitable academic environment in Sri Lanka.

With growing awareness and institutional support, Sri Lankan universities are taking a step forward in addressing SRHR and cyber gender-based violence, paving the way for a more inclusive and supportive educational system.

A key highlight of the screening was the presentation of 10 short films directed by female undergraduates, offering powerful narratives on the real-life struggles of female girls within the university. These films explored gender-based violence, discrimination, societal expectations, gender stereotypes, intimate partner violence and barriers to SRHR.

By using storytelling as a tool for advocacy, these films challenged traditional gender norms and sparked meaningful conversations on the need for systemic change. The screening set the stage for an engaging panel discussion featuring experts from various disciplines, offering insights into the role of films, gender identity, and policy reforms in addressing these pressing issues.

The panel discussion, chaired by Dr. T. Kartheeswaran from the Department of Physical Science, explored how social norms shape gender identity and equality. He noted, “Gender identity is largely shaped by societal norms. However, gender identification can evolve over time based on cultural shifts and personal experiences.”

Prof. G. Jayaseelan from the Faculty of Business Studies emphasized the influence of film in raising awareness, stating, “Short films can serve as strong reflections of social issues. They have the power to raise awareness, start conversations, and inspire change in gender-related struggles.”

Dr. S. Wijeyamohan from the Department of Bio-Science stressed the importance of gender pride, asserting that recognizing and respecting one’s gender identity is crucial for self-esteem and equality. He stated, “SRHR should be equal for both men and women. Access to reproductive healthcare should not be a privilege but a right for everyone.”

Panelist Dr. Wijeyamohan addressed transgender identity misconceptions, emphasizing that acceptance is not optional but a moral and social responsibility. “Transgender identity is influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors. A truly inclusive society ensures dignity and respect for all,” he added.

Dr. (Mrs.) K. Kalainathan from the Faculty of Business Studies challenged restrictive dress codes, advocating for personal choice over societal expectations. “Dress should be a personal choice, not dictated by societal norms. No one should impose what others wear,” she remarked.

Ms. Anne Perera from the Faculty of Technological Studies stressed the importance of comprehensive SRHR education in schools, calling for policy reforms to ensure equal access to reproductive health services. “Policy decisions on SRHR must be inclusive, ensuring that all individuals have access to essential services,” she said.

The ELEVATE Film Screening and Panel Discussion successfully amplified women’s voices, challenged stereotypes, and shed light on the struggles faced by girls within the university while calling for possible solutions. The event reinforced the importance of continuous advocacy, education, and policy reforms to create a more inclusive society.

Moving forward, it is essential to continue fostering dialogue through platforms like ELEVATE, using film and discussion to break down barriers and promote gender equality. The event marked a significant step towards gender justice and empowerment, proving that storytelling can be a powerful force for change.

The screening provided a platform for critical discussions on gender-based challenges in universities. Prof. S. Jeyasankar, the panel chair attached to the Faculty of Arts and Culture, stated, “Gender hierarchy is neither natural nor biological; it is a societal construct. We have the responsibility and the right to transform it from negative to positive.”

The panel discussion included insights from Dr. Bhagya Karunarathna, Senior Lecturer attached to the Faculty of Science who emphasized the importance of action over empathy in addressing gender issues, and Dr. Vaithehi Rajeewan Francis from the Medical Faculty, highlighted the need for understanding and compassion. Prof. Prabha Manuratne, Director for the CGEE, UGC called for universities to actively combat violence, stating, “Sexual violence or any kind of violence is an expression of power.”

The event with a participation of 400 students, reinforced the importance of film as a tool for advocacy, encouraging universities to foster gender equity and inclusivity.

The ELEVATE Film Summit, held on February 17 at South Eastern University of Sri Lanka, showcased 10 short films on Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) and Preventing Cyber Gender-Based Violence (CGBV). These films, produced by female undergraduates, sparked discussions on power dynamics, gender diversity, and the culture of violence in university relationships. This event was implemented as a series by the CMIL in Collaboration with the Centre for Gender Equity/Equality of the University Grants Commission while, hosted by the university administration and the Gender Cell of the South Eastern University under the Guest presence of the Acting Vice Chancellor, Dr. U. L. A. Majeed.

During the event, Prof. Prabha Manuratne, Director of the Centre for Gender Equality and Equity, emphasized that true love and respect do not come with power and control. She urged students to embrace diversity, acknowledging differences in culture, religion, gender, and financial status as strengths rather than weaknesses.

Nearly 400 students participated in the event, engaging in discussions with senior academics. During the panel discussion, Prof. Ayyoob Ali Ali, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Sociology and chair of the session, highlighted the challenges girls face in the digital space and stressed the importance of safe navigation online. Dr. Naleefa, from the Department of Sociology and Director of the Gender Cell, addressed stigma and gender stereotypes, encouraging young people to respect autonomy in relationships. Dr. Anushya, Senior Lecturer in the Department of History, advocated for comprehensive sex education, emphasizing the need to discuss sexuality and gender issues openly.

Mr. Ramesh Da Silva, General Manager of Future World, noted that the Elevate program’s films transformed his company’s perspective on gender issues, inspiring them to support young people further.

The summit reinforced the importance of respect, gender equality, and safe relationships, urging universities to foster a culture of inclusivity and nonviolence.

The Chief Guest, the Rector of the Campus, Dr. AAL Prathiba Mahanamahewa, commended the UGC’s initiative in empowering young women through mobile and short filmmaking. He emphasized the importance of open discussions on reproductive health and gender equality, drawing parallels with global practices that encourage respectful relationships.

The event was attended by distinguished faculty members, including Dr. Kumesh Prabashini, Ms. Chathurika Nimalchandra, Mrs. Kalani Dharmasiri, Mr. Manoj Premachandra, Mr. Nuwan Madduma, and Prof. Kumudini Maddumage. The Dean of the Faculty of Management highlighted the impact of these films in shaping policy and fostering discourse on GBV.

Filmmakers and panelists addressed cyber violence, intimate partner abuse, transgender representation, and passive violence in relationships. Experts such as Prof. Kumudini Maddumage and Dr. Kumesha Prabhashini discussed safe abortion, SRHR awareness, and gender equality in education.

Mrs. Kalani Dharmasiri concluded by emphasizing the need for students to stand against relationship violence and advocate for legal remedies. With 24 participants, the screening successfully sparked crucial conversations on gender rights, policy reforms, and university support systems.

The Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Mr. I.R. Priyantha, served as the Chief Guest, alongside key academic figures, including Prof. R.M. Wijewardhana, Dr. S.G.S. Samaraweera, Ven. Makola Mangala, and Dr. Indi Akurugoda. The screening featured 12 impactful short films, each shedding light on pressing issues such as abortion rights, menstruation stigma, cyber gender-based violence, and university ragging.

The panel discussions were insightful, with Dr. Indi Akurugoda emphasizing the need for students to voice their concerns on relationship abuse and gender-based violence while advocating for legal remedies. Other panelists, including Dr. Nisanka Ariyaratne and Dr. Nirosha Ruwan Pathirana, highlighted the importance of SRHR awareness, victim support systems, and engaging male students in conversations on gender equality.

The event concluded with  the Director of the Centre Gender Equity/ Equality of the UGC, Prof. Prabha Manuratne reinforcing the need to break the silence on gender violence and encouraging students to utilize the UGC’s reporting mechanisms. With 58 participants, the screening successfully fostered a meaningful dialogue on gender rights and university policies.