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.

As a commemoration of the World Environment Day falling on the 5^th of June, the Participants of the competition were encouraged to submit photos that depicted the impact of climate change, sustainable practices, and the beauty of nature. The winners were selected under the popular photography category which encouraged the audience to assess the photographs based on creativity, composition, and the ability to convey a powerful message.

The most popular prize under the School Category was awarded to Mathavarajah Nithurshan from Carmel Fathima College, Kalmunai for his stunning image of an elephant finding food in a polluted environment, symbolizing pollution and the need for renewal. Under the University Category, Chamal Chandana from the University of Sri Jayawardenepura, secured first place for his photograph on Sunset in a city.  The first runner-up, Asha Jayasri from the University of Colombo, showcased the Sri Lankan coastal areas facing rising sea levels. The second runner-up, Savindu Yasara from the University of Sri Jayawardenapura, showcased the beauty of nature integrating water, sunset and entertainment.  

CMIL’s Director, Mr. M.B.M. Fairooz, praised the participants, stating, “The ClimateClick Mobile Photography Competition has once again demonstrated the power of visual storytelling in raising awareness about climate change. These remarkable photographs remind us of the urgent need to act and inspire us to protect our planet.”

All the photographs were featured in an online gallery in CMIL Social Media pages, aiming to educate and inspire communities worldwide. The competition not only celebrated World Environment Day, but also praised the artistic talent of these young photographers reinforcing the global commitment to combating climate change through collective action and awareness.

The Centre for Media and Information Literacy organized this discussion as part of the ELEVATE project—a short film initiative aimed at enhancing the capacity of female filmmakers to advocate for SRHR and combat CGBV within the university system in Sri Lanka. The project seeks to empower female filmmakers to produce powerful narratives on these issues and promote inclusive policies to protect female graduates, boosting their confidence to speak openly about the challenges they face.

During the discussion, academics shared their observations on several vital issues. An academic from the University of Jaffna highlighted the prevalence of SRHR and CGBV issues within the Sri Lankan university system and the urgent need to confront cultural barriers hindering progress. She mentioned that female university graduates often do not speak out due to fear of peers and potential backlash. Cultural restrictions and associated stigma further silence many girls, underscoring the need to empower them to openly discuss their lived challenges.

Moreover, it was revealed that some female graduates lack confidence in voicing their SRHR concerns due to peer pressure. An academic based in the Eastern province emphasized the importance of addressing peer pressure and creating a confidential environment where girls feel safe to express their concerns. While many girls confide in their trusted peers, some still remain silent. The discussion highlighted those creative arts, like filmmaking, could help address these social norms. Girls at all levels should be encouraged to voice their critical opinions and share their experiences with SRHR and CGBV within the university system.

The establishment of gender cells at universities was acknowledged as a bold step. These cells involve close collaboration between students and administration, strengthening mechanisms for collective good. Increasingly, university girls are lodging complaints with gender cells, although a significant number still do not recognize the importance of engaging with these cells to resolve issues.

The discussion also led to the ELEVATE Short Film Making Project, which is dedicated to advancing SRHR among participants. This project integrates filmmaking into research assignments to collect solid evidence, case studies, and data on ongoing issues, enabling filmmakers to incorporate these insights into their films. This approach was suggested by several participants to better enlighten them on SRHR and CGBV topics.

The one-hour discussion concluded with the aim of bridging gaps in understanding and implementation, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and proactive response to CGBV and SRHR in Sri Lanka’s university communities. Twelve university academics from various Sri Lankan universities attended this discussion.

During the webinar, Mrs. Maduwanthi guided participants through an exploration of various aspects of sexual and reproductive health, including understanding one’s rights, navigating relationships, and accessing resources for support and information. Moreover, the webinar provided a platform for participants to learn about the importance of consent, contraception, and safe sexual practices. Mrs. Maduwanthi facilitated conversations on gender equality, addressing power dynamics in relationships, and promoting respect and autonomy in sexual encounters. In addition to discussing individual rights and responsibilities, the webinar also addressed broader issues such as reproductive rights, access to healthcare, and the importance of comprehensive sexuality education.Through engaging discussions, participants were encouraged to reflect on societal norms and cultural attitudes surrounding sexual health and to challenge stigmas and misconceptions, while supporting them to understand a deeply discussed SRHR issue to direct their short film for the project. 
Overall, the webinar served as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and empowerment, empowering participants to navigate complex issues surrounding sexual and reproductive health with confidence and knowledge. By providing a safe and inclusive space for discussion and learning, this webinar has made significant strides in producing better short films promoting a culture of respect, dignity, and equality in matters of sexual and reproductive health.

In a groundbreaking fusion of technology, governance, and advocacy, the Center for Media and Information Literacy (CMiL) orchestrated the MoJo for Governance Story Summit on November 25, 2023, in Galle. This transformative event convened government bodies, NGO representatives, advocates, and women’s rights activists in a collective effort to confront and find solutions for the pervasive issues surrounding women’s rights. What set this summit apart was its revolutionary emphasis on leveraging Mobile Journalism (MoJo) to amplify women’s voices and communicate powerful messages resonating globally.

Timed strategically to coincide with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the summit served as a dynamic platform for meaningful dialogue and

collaborative action. Dignitaries from government bodies, NGOs, Women’s Rights Activists, and representatives from various sectors converged, demonstrating a commitment to protecting and advancing women’s rights, LGBTIQ rights, and addressing broader social issues.

The summit’s central theme revolved around advocating Women’s Rights through Mobile Storytelling, exploring the role of mobile storytelling in shaping narratives, challenging

societal norms, and promoting gender equality. Thought-provoking sessions facilitated engaging discussions that delved into the multifaceted aspects of women’s rights.

MoJo stories presented during the summit covered a spectrum of women’s rights issues, including Gender-Based Violence, educational rights, nutritious diet concerns, estate workers’ issues, minimal female representation in politics, and challenges faced by

transgender non-binary females. The diverse range of topics underscored the power of mobile storytelling in shedding light on crucial issues affecting women.

Government bodies actively engaged in discussions, recognizing the imperative need for collaboration between the public and private sectors to bring about meaningful change. Divisional Secretary Mr. Shafraas praised MoJo’s effectiveness in communicating complex topics to society due to its easy accessibility. Mrs. Renuka from the National Integration Office emphasized the need for sex education, citing instances of young girls facing

challenges due to ignorance.

The summit also addressed local issues, with officials highlighting the need for safe resting areas for students and women in the Matara District. Participants who created MoJo stories addressing these concerns were commended, emphasizing the tangible impact of mobile storytelling.

Media professionals and journalists expressed the necessity to empower young girls in MoJo storytelling, urging NGOs and Government Bodies to provide platforms for their voices.

Women’s rights activists shared personal narratives, stressing the urgency of addressing systemic challenges. Dr. Wimal Dissanayaka, Chairman of the Habaraduwa Development

Foundation, commended participants for bringing women’s rights violations to light through mobile storytelling, acknowledging its resonance across digital platforms.

The summit concluded with a resounding call to action, urging participants and guests to carry the momentum forward. The commitment to utilizing MoJo for governance and advocacy purposes was echoed in the creation of a collaborative framework, fostering ongoing dialogue and partnerships between government bodies, NGOs, and activists.

As we reflect on the MoJo for Governance Story Summit, it becomes evident that mobile storytelling has emerged as a formidable force for change. The stories shared during this summit are not confined to conference halls; they are disseminated through the digital

realm, igniting conversations and motivating individuals to stand up for women’s rights. The summit stands as a testament to the collective power of storytelling and its ability to shape a future where every woman is afforded the rights and dignity she deserves. The program is supported by the U. S. Embassy in Colombo, under its small and mighty grants program managed by Sri Lanka Unites.

The first position is for a Consultant for Baseline Survey who will be responsible for designing and coordinating interviews and surveys with young girls. The role involves analyzing data and preparing a comprehensive baseline report on the confidence levels of young girls in discussing SRHR. Qualifications include a degree in social sciences or public health, proven experience in SRHR baseline surveys, and proficiency in statistical analysis tools.

The second opportunity is for a Consultant to Conduct Study focusing on the SRHR status among young girls in Sri Lanka’s university system. Responsibilities include designing and conducting a comprehensive study using qualitative and quantitative methods. The consultant will interpret study data and prepare a detailed report. Qualifications for this role include a master’s degree in social sciences or public health, proven experience in relevant studies, and expertise in qualitative and quantitative research methods.

To apply for these positions, interested candidates should submit their application and CV to info@cmil.lk by November 25, 2023. Join CMIL to contribute to the empowerment of young girls in their SRHR journey, work in a supportive environment, and be part of a team dedicated to positive social change. Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted, and no telephone calls are accepted.

Click here to download the announcement.

The primary goal of this initiative is to equip and empower young climate champions to raise awareness through mobile photography. It specifically highlights the impact of climate change on women and children, with a particular focus on rural areas of Sri Lanka. These vulnerable groups often face the harshest consequences of climate-related challenges. By emphasizing these perspectives, the initiative aims to address the longstanding gender disparity in climate reporting.

This initiative serves as a vital platform for young people to visually document the climate-induced struggles experienced by women and children. Through powerful imagery, it seeks to foster empathy, understanding, and much-needed attention to their plight. Ultimately, this initiative aims to catalyze broader awareness, advocate for policy reform, and promote community-driven adaptation strategies that prioritize the needs of the most affected, aligning with the ‘Promoting Rights and Inclusion for Marginalized Communities’ thematic focus area.

Additionally, the ‘Capture’ initiative continues to champion women’s rights while highlighting the critical intersection of climate justice. It amplifies voices and encourages informed action.

By amplifying the voices of women and children in rural areas, this initiative sheds light on their unique experiences and challenges in the face of climate change. Through mobile photography, these climate champions can capture and share powerful visual narratives with the potential to inspire action and influence policy changes at local and national levels.

The program will engage young climate enthusiasts and journalists, with a specific target of 60 participants from North and Trincomalee, including men and women aged 18–40. There is a special emphasis on individuals originating from or residing in Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, Mannar, Vavuniya, or Trincomalee who have a keen interest in photography and a strong desire to embark on this exceptional journey. The seminars will provide participants with hands-on training in mobile journalism techniques, encompassing photography, video production, and storytelling.

Furthermore, this program aims to empower women and children in rural areas by providing them with a platform to share their stories and experiences through the powerful medium of mobile photography.

Towards the end of the program, CMIL plans to create a digital platform where young climate champions can express their concerns and dissent through short videos, pictures, and articles.

As the program began, these young women were asked to share their own experiences of women in their communities. The stories they unveiled were both heart-wrenching and powerful. A first-year student at Rajarata University, narrated the struggles faced by girls and women in plantation communities who grappled with menstrual hardships due to poverty. She recounted the shocking reality of young girls having to endure their menstruation without access to sanitary pads, resorting to using waste paper or even tree bark from climbing banjus to makeshift pads. These stories were emblematic of the challenges faced by girls in marginalized rural communities during the ongoing economic crisis.

Another graduate student, a passionate advocate for the rights of sex workers, shed light on how the current economic situation had taken a severe toll on vulnerable women. They faced harassment, legal discrimination, and public shaming while striving to provide for their families. The young advocate emphasized the importance of addressing the systemic factors that compelled these women to engage in such work against their will.

The Mobile Journalism for Governance Training Program aimed to empower these young women to become advocates for women’s rights. Under the guidance of dynamic trainers, 

Mr. Kapila Ramanayaka and Ms. Fathima Shanaz, the participants learned the art of mobile storytelling. Mr. Ramanayaka, a pioneer of mobile journalism in Sri Lanka, imparted hands-on skills, teaching them the essentials of storytelling, shot composition, video editing, and interview techniques using their smartphones.

Ms. Shanaz, a lecturer and passionate advocate for women’s rights, delved into the complexities of governance and women’s rights on a global scale. She discussed the progress made and the persistent challenges, fostering discussions on local and regional contexts. By the end of the training, these 23 women had transformed into storytellers on a mission.

The program’s final day was all about action. Encouraged by their mentors, the participants embarked on their own mobile journalism projects centered on women’s rights and gender equality. They were equipped with the skills to craft powerful stories, address human rights issues, create gender-sensitive narratives, conduct ethical interviews, and engage in field surveys on women’s rights issues.

As the Mobile Journalism for Governance Training Program concluded, it marked the beginning of a new chapter. These 23 empowered women left Unawatuna with a renewed sense of purpose and the skills to amplify their voices through mobile journalism. They carried with them the power to break barriers, challenge norms, and turn women’s rights into a lived reality. Their stories would echo far and wide, demonstrating the transformative power of storytelling and the indomitable spirit of women. 

The impact of this program extended beyond the participants as they became advocates for women’s rights in their communities, igniting a wave of empowerment that would continue to grow. 

The Centre for Media and Information Literacy (CMIL) conducted two mobile short film trainings in Jaffna (24-27 November) and Batticaloa (1-4 December) to build the capacity of 50 young female short filmmakers (26 from North and 24 from the East) to use smartphones to produce compelling short films, addressing various human rights issues affecting women living in marginalized settings.

The trainings are organized under the initiative “Film for Equality” and designed to enhance the capacity of the young women to use smartphones to produce compelling short films, capturing the lived reality of women in marginalized setting, and specifically focusing on how their human rights are systemically violated.

Addressing GBV

During both trainings, the young girls learned how produce short film to address issues such as economic inequality, GBV, climate injustice, digital misogyny, a lack of gender-responsive, political and civic participation through mobile-based short film making. The girls from Jaffna made a practice film on sexual harassment where they discussed how young women are trapped by officials of the corporate and state institutions. Viewing the film, those girls maintained that a culture of zero tolerance is needed to eliminate sexual harassment.

The girls collectively affirmed that fear of sexual harassment discourages women from discovering their own potential; achieving their goals and fulfilling their aspirations. Thanushiya, a young filmmaker and university graduate said “short film in Jaffna society has created a greater awareness amongst the young people on the rights of the LGBTQ community and the young girls. However, creating a culture of respect and recognition is a lifelong challenge”. She further said that “when girls remain in silence, it becomes extremely hard to create constant recognition for equality. 

They learned how to shoot and edit video using freely available mobile applications such as Kinemaster.  Each participant went through an individualized training on developing emotionally powerful characters, story ideas, and converting them into meaningful films reflecting the voice of women.

Breaking Silence

“It is extremely vital for the women to break their silence against Gender-based Violence (GBV) and Human Rights violations and continue to challenge the systemic oppressions against women and young girls. One of the most effective ways to make this happen is to empower women to produce critical narratives articulating their lived realities” said Ayesha Chathurangi, Lecturer at University of the Visual and Performing Arts.

She made this point amongst young women short filmmakers from the Northern Province. When Ayesha said that the majority of women are in greater silence against GBV, almost all the women in attendance endorsed it; many complemented her statement with their personal stories.

Substantiating Ayesha’s statement, the majority of girls from the Northern Province said sexual bribery, sexual harassment on public transport, gender-based discrimination, cyber-misogyny, and denying access to the public sphere, are some of the issues that they face in their daily life. Yet most of the women do not speak out loud about their lived experience, in seeking justice.

Rights to Safe Abortion

The girls from the Eastern province made two exercises films focusing on the right to marital consent of girls and right to safe abortion. Young girls were given the opportunity to contribute to the story development where they shared their personal experience in crafting their script.  Ms. Keshayini Edmond, a participant and short film maker directed the short film about the right to safe abortion which highlighted stigma around the safe abortion. Young girls indicated that some fathers and families dismantle the right of girls to choose a partner on her choice. Some girls said consent of the young girls are not often valued when it comes to marriage.

Prof. Indika Ferdinando, a national and international award-winning Sri Lankan theatre practitioner and film director and Sumudu Malalgama, film producer and director conducted the trainings. The initiative “Film Incubator for Equality” is supported by the Royal Netherlands Embassy in Colombo.

During the training, those female short film filmmakers shared their own insights on how GBV is systematically normalized too.

Divya Rasathurai, a young female short filmmaker stated “when producing films on the lived reality of the women, it is important to use metaphoric approaches and to engage the audience emotionally, intellectually, spiritually and physically. Women should not be portrayed as powerless, helpless, voiceless and vulnerable individual”.

The same trainings will be conducted in the eastern and the southern provinces too. Under the film incubator for equality project, 76 young female films makers will be trained on promoting greater equality and gender justice.

CMIL is working closely with the University of Jaffna, the University of Trincomalee campus, and The University of Visual and Performing Arts, Colombo, in designing a digital curriculum on filmmaking through smartphones and addressing human right issues affecting women. The digital course will be available free of charge to all film enthusiasts in Sri Lanka.