Eastern YMCAs Successfully Conduct Scouts Phase 1 Training Programme at Batticaloa YMCA
The Sri Lanka YMCA, in collaboration with the Eastern YMCAs, successfully organised the Eastern YMCAs Scouts Phase 1 Training Programme on 2nd and 3rd May 2026 at the Batticaloa YMCA. The two-day residential programme brought together 25 enthusiastic participants representing seven YMCA associations across the Eastern Province, providing a valuable opportunity for young people to develop essential scouting skills, strengthen their leadership abilities, and deepen their commitment to community service.
The training programme was organised with the vision of equipping YMCA youth members with the knowledge, discipline, and practical skills required to become responsible leaders within their communities. Through a combination of classroom sessions, outdoor activities, teamwork exercises, and practical demonstrations, participants experienced an engaging learning environment that reflected the core values of both the YMCA and the global Scout Movement.
Scouting has long played a significant role in nurturing young people by promoting self-reliance, discipline, teamwork, and service. The Phase 1 Training Programme served as an important foundation for participants beginning their scouting journey, introducing them to the principles, traditions, and responsibilities associated with scouting. Throughout the programme, participants were encouraged to embrace the Scout Promise and Law while developing confidence and a spirit of cooperation.
The programme was conducted under the expert guidance of the Sri Lanka Scout Association – Batticaloa District Branch, whose dedication and experience ensured that the training met the highest standards of scouting education. The instructors delivered a well-balanced curriculum that combined theoretical knowledge with practical application, enabling participants to gain hands-on experience in various scouting activities.
A special note of appreciation is extended to Mr. N. Kasusha, Assistant District Commissioner – Training, whose valuable guidance and leadership greatly contributed to the overall success of the programme. His commitment to developing young leaders and promoting quality scouting education was evident throughout the training sessions. His encouragement inspired participants to actively engage in every aspect of the programme while understanding the deeper purpose of scouting as a lifelong journey of service and leadership.
The YMCA also expresses its sincere gratitude to Mr. R. Sasedaran and Mrs. Bharathi Singam, who served as the Chief Instructors for the programme. Their professional expertise, practical demonstrations, and interactive teaching methods created an enjoyable and meaningful learning experience for all participants. Through their dedication and enthusiasm, they encouraged participants to challenge themselves, work collaboratively, and build lasting friendships with fellow YMCA youth from across the Eastern Province.
Special appreciation is also extended to Mr. A. Nishanthan, District Commissioner of the Batticaloa District Scout Association, for his continued support and valuable contribution towards the successful implementation of the programme. His encouragement and commitment to youth development have played a significant role in strengthening the partnership between the YMCA and the Sri Lanka Scout Association.
One of the most valuable aspects of the programme was the opportunity it provided for participants from different YMCA associations to come together, exchange experiences, and build meaningful relationships. Representing seven different YMCAs across the Eastern Province, the participants embraced diversity while working together towards common goals. The collaborative environment fostered mutual respect, understanding, and unity among the youth, reinforcing the YMCA’s mission of building inclusive communities where young people can grow together regardless of their backgrounds.
Throughout the two-day programme, participants actively engaged in a variety of practical scouting activities designed to enhance their leadership, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. Outdoor exercises challenged participants to think critically and work collectively, while leadership sessions encouraged them to recognise their own strengths and identify ways to serve their communities more effectively. These activities also strengthened discipline, responsibility, and resilience—qualities that are essential not only in scouting but also in everyday life.
The programme further highlighted the YMCA’s ongoing commitment to youth empowerment and holistic development. By investing in leadership training and character-building initiatives, the YMCA continues to prepare young people to become responsible citizens who positively influence their families, schools, workplaces, and communities. Such programmes reflect the YMCA’s vision of empowering youth to reach their full potential while promoting values of integrity, compassion, respect, and service.
The successful completion of the Scouts Phase 1 Training Programme marks another important milestone in the long-standing partnership between the Sri Lanka YMCA and the Sri Lanka Scout Association. This collaboration continues to create meaningful opportunities for young people to acquire practical life skills while strengthening their commitment to volunteerism and community engagement.
The enthusiasm demonstrated by all 25 participants throughout the programme was truly inspiring. Their willingness to learn, support one another, and actively participate in every session reflected the positive impact that youth development programmes can have when delivered through collaboration, dedication, and shared purpose. The knowledge and skills gained during this training will undoubtedly support participants as they continue their scouting journey and take on greater leadership responsibilities within their respective YMCA associations.
The Eastern YMCAs extend their heartfelt appreciation to everyone who contributed to the success of this programme, including the trainers, organisers, volunteers, YMCA leaders, and support staff whose hard work behind the scenes ensured a smooth and memorable event. Their collective efforts created an environment where participants could learn, grow, and build friendships that will continue long after the training concluded.
As the YMCA continues to strengthen its youth development initiatives across Sri Lanka, programmes such as the Eastern YMCAs Scouts Phase 1 Training serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of investing in the next generation. Through leadership, service, teamwork, and faith-inspired values, young people are equipped to become positive agents of change who contribute meaningfully to society.
The Sri Lanka YMCA remains committed to creating more opportunities that inspire, educate, and empower young people throughout the country. Building on the success of this training programme, the organisation looks forward to organising future scouting and leadership initiatives that will continue to shape confident, compassionate, and capable leaders for tomorrow.
