Sri Lanka: The Government rewards two Tdh local staff

Working with war-affected communities, instilling hope and inspiring leadership are no easy tasks. Yet the dedicated staff of Tdh in Sri Lanka was able to overcome these challenging situations. Arulanantham Soosaithasan (Thashan) Project Coordinator and Ramalingam Sivapathis, Project Manager for the Psychosocial Project of Terre des hommes Sri Lanka Mission were honoured with the Sama Sri Deshamanya – Pride of the Nation – award in recognition of their contribution to social services, particularly in child protection and psychosocial work by “The United Organization of All Island Communities – Sri Lanka”.

During the past 4 years Thashan and Sivapathis were actively involved in Tdh projects where the main focus was to create protective environments which also promote resilience in children and young people as well as youth empowerment. Working with war-affected communities, and including the flood in 2011, has been extremely challenging. However the dedication, commitment and sheer perseverance of Thashan and Sivaparthis have motivated many youths to come forward and participate in the development of their communities. The inspiring leadership of Thashan and Sivaparthis resulted in 1,200 young people coming forward to be trained and supported to bring around a change in the way their communities perceived them as well as to make changes in their environment. With guidance from Thashan, Sivapathis and the psychosocial team, the youths led the development of 48 small projects that included minor repairs to early childhood development centres, multipurpose centres and schools, rehabilitation or construction of small roads in agricultural or beach areas, well cleaning, construction or restoration of play and recreation areas and sports facilities, community-based solid-waste management. Thashan and Sivapathis’ work hasn’t stopped with the youngsters, they have also been actively involved in developing child protection structures at the village level as well.

The Deputy Minister for Child Development & Women’s Affairs gave the award at a ceremony attended by the Chief Minister, the Leader of the opposition for the Eastern Province and other distinguished guests. “I am very happy to have this award. The 7 years’ work with Tdh in emergency and development situations has been recognised at a national level and I thank Tdh for the great opportunity given me to work for our communities” said Thashan, speaking about how he felt upon receiving the award. Meanwhile Sivapathis felt that “felicitation while living is the milestone of every one’s achievement”.

Tdh congratulates Thashan and Sivapathis and wishes them continued dedication and success in their future work with vulnerable children and youths.