YMCA Batticaloa Youth Participate in USAID-Supported Right to Information Program
BATTICALOA, SRI LANKA – Youth representatives from YMCA Batticaloa recently took part in a Right to Information (RTI) awareness program conducted by USAID Sri Lanka, furthering their commitment to active citizenship and democratic participation. The initiative was designed to educate and empower young Sri Lankans on the legal and practical applications of the Right to Information Act, encouraging transparency and good governance across the nation.
Promoting Civic Engagement Through Access to Information
The program, supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is part of a broader effort to strengthen civil society and promote democratic values in Sri Lanka. It focused on enhancing young people’s understanding of their right to request and access information held by public authorities — a powerful legal tool to ensure government accountability and community-level change.
Through interactive training sessions, group discussions, and real-world case studies, youth participants explored how the RTI Act can be used to address local issues, reduce corruption, and improve public services. The program emphasized the importance of transparency as a cornerstone of democracy.
Eastern Voices for Democratic Change
Representing Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, YMCA Batticaloa youth brought unique perspectives and experiences to the program, particularly in highlighting the challenges rural communities face in accessing timely and accurate information. Their participation underscored the need for increased RTI awareness at the grassroots level and demonstrated their growing role as informed advocates for justice and equity.
Empowering Youth for an Accountable Future
The engagement with USAID’s RTI initiative reflects YMCA Batticaloa’s ongoing commitment to nurturing responsible, knowledgeable, and proactive youth leaders. As the participants return to their communities, they are expected to share their learning, promote awareness, and assist others in utilizing the Right to Information to bring about constructive local change.
This collaboration between USAID Sri Lanka and YMCA Batticaloa exemplifies the power of youth in strengthening democratic governance and ensuring that the principles of openness and accountability are upheld throughout Sri Lanka.
