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:
- Ms. Sivapriya Sriram – Senior Lecturer, Communication Studies, Department of Languages and Communication Studies.
- Dr. Aloysius Britto Ithayaraj – Senior Lecturer in English, Department of Languages and Communication Studies.
- 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.
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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.
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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.
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Through creative expression in filmmaking, the ELEVATE Project has not only provided participants with valuable technical skills, but it has also played a critical role in elevating their confidence. These young women, once too shy to discuss SRHR and CGBV, have grown into outspoken advocates, using their films as powerful tools for social change.
The Power of Confidence-Building through Filmmaking
The central theme of the ELEVATE Project is empowerment through confidence-building. For many participants, the project began as an opportunity to learn new skills, but it quickly became much more. Filmmaking, an often intimidating and technical art form, became a tool for personal growth, helping each participant move from silence to vocal advocacy.
Chamodi, a student from the University of Ruhuna, is a prime example of how the project elevated confidence. Before joining ELEVATE, Chamodi was reluctant to discuss SRHR issues. “Before this, I felt too embarrassed and unsure to speak about these topics, even in private conversations,” she admits. However, after attending a session by Professor Carmen from the University of Peradeniya, Chamodi began to realize the importance of discussing SRHR openly. “The session gave me the confidence to not only talk about SRHR but also to advocate for it within my community,” she explains. By learning to use filmmaking as a form of expression, Chamodi transformed from someone who avoided sensitive topics to a confident leader in her university community, sparking conversations on consent and intimate partner violence.
Chamodi’s experience demonstrates the core success of the ELEVATE Project: the ability to build confidence in young women who were initially shy or fearful about addressing important issues. It was not just about learning filmmaking—it was about discovering the power of their own voices.
Creating a Safe Space for Open Expression
The confidence to speak up comes not only from the skills participants gained, but also from the supportive, all-female learning environment created within the ELEVATE Project. This safe space allowed participants to engage without fear of judgment, which proved crucial in building confidence. Nuzha Kidur, a participant from the University of Colombo, explains how this safe space made all the difference. “The absence of a male audience created an environment where we could speak openly without judgment,” she reflects. “This gave me the courage to address topics I once avoided.”
Nuzha’s transformation highlights how the project’s environment fostered confidence. By providing mentorship and encouraging open dialogue in a non-judgmental space, the ELEVATE Project allowed women to overcome their hesitations and confront complex issues such as reproductive health and unsafe abortion. Nuzha’s short film on unsafe abortion is not just a personal achievement; it is a powerful statement advocating for awareness and policy change. Through the ELEVATE Project, Nuzha learned to use filmmaking not just as a creative outlet, but as a means of social activism, speaking out for those who are often voiceless.
The Role of Film in Amplifying Confidence
Filmmaking, in the context of the ELEVATE Project, was more than a technical skill—it was a tool for self-empowerment. As participants crafted their films, they not only honed their technical abilities but also confronted their own fears and uncertainties. This process allowed them to gain confidence in their ability to speak up on sensitive and often taboo subjects.
Niroshika, a participant from the University of Jaffna, recalls her initial nervousness: “At first, I was nervous to speak about these issues, even in our group discussions. But as I started working on my film, I realized the importance of my voice and my story in driving change.” Through the process of filmmaking, Niroshika discovered the power of her own narrative, which transformed her from a shy student to an outspoken advocate for social change.
The process of filmmaking gave Niroshika and many others the confidence to challenge societal norms and speak up about difficult topics. The films they produced became a platform for them to communicate their experiences, express their views, and inspire others to join the conversation. In doing so, the ELEVATE Project not only elevated their technical skills but also elevated their confidence, enabling them to drive change within their universities and communities.
Breaking Barriers for Differently-Abled Students
One of the most significant achievements of the ELEVATE Project is its inclusivity, particularly in empowering differently-abled students. Dilshani Randima, a differently-abled student from the University of Colombo, shares her experience: “This project gave me a voice and the skills to express myself. For the first time, I felt truly included and empowered to address issues that matter to me and my community.”
Before ELEVATE, differently-abled students like Dilshani were often excluded not only from discussions on SRHR and CGBV but also from opportunities to develop technical skills like filmmaking. By providing accessible platforms for expression, the ELEVATE Project has proven that confidence-building is crucial for all students, regardless of ability. Dilshani now encourages others to speak out, further expanding the reach of the project’s advocacy and amplifying the voices of those who have historically been marginalized.
The Broader Impact of Confidence: A Movement for Change
The ELEVATE Project has done more than teach filmmaking. It has created a movement—a movement driven by young women who now have the confidence to challenge social norms and demand change. The 25 films produced through the project tackle important issues like period poverty, menstrual stigma, intimate partner violence, and cyber gender-based violence. These films serve as powerful advocacy tools, amplifying the voices of the young women who created them and inspiring others to join the conversation.
Pramodya Siriwardhana from the Eastern University of Sri Lanka sums up the lasting impact of ELEVATE: “This project has taught us to believe in the power of our voices. This is just the beginning of a much larger journey for me.” Pramodya’s words reflect the broader shift in mindset that the ELEVATE Project has instilled in its participants. What began as a simple skill-building initiative has grown into a confidence-boosting movement, with these young women now leading discussions and pushing for policy changes in their universities.
Conclusion: Confidence as a Catalyst for Change
The ELEVATE Project has undeniably elevated the confidence of young women in Sri Lanka, empowering them to speak up on issues of SRHR and CGBV. By providing the tools, mentorship, and safe space to express themselves through filmmaking, the project has allowed participants to confront their own fears and transform into confident advocates for social change. These young women are now using their voices to challenge stigma, raise awareness, and push for concrete changes in their communities and universities.
Through the ELEVATE Project, confidence was not just an outcome—it was the catalyst for a movement that is continuing to inspire others and shape the future of advocacy in Sri Lanka and beyond.
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 5th 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.
