Residential Workshop on Understanding Religion, Culture and Conflict

Project ID: IYC/SL/2013/02

Project Description

The Secretariat for Muslims (SFM) organized this 5-day workshop from May 14th to 19th, 2013. This workshop, titled "Understanding Religion, Culture, and Conflict," aimed to bring together young people aged 18 to 25 from different religions to learn about each other's beliefs and cultures. The goal was to promote social harmony and mutual respect for diversity in ethnicity, culture, and religion. Throughout the workshop, participants engaged in a range of activities, including community service projects, teambuilding exercises, and leadership development programs. They had the opportunity to meet religious and community leaders, who shared their experiences and perspectives, allowing the participants to gain valuable insights and understanding. PALTRA, an organization experienced in conducting workshops, facilitated this program. With their expertise and guidance, the workshop was designed to be engaging, informative, and entertaining for all participants. The SFM's main objective was to foster connections between communities in specific districts, establishing a platform for dialogue and nurturing relationships founded on respect and understanding. By bringing together members from various organizations such as IYCSL, YMBA, YWBA, YMMA, YWMA, YMCA, YWCA, YMHA, and YWHA, aimed to create a strong network of young individuals dedicated to promoting social harmony and resolving conflicts peacefully. This workshop provided an amazing opportunity for young people to learn, grow, and contribute to a more inclusive society. It offered a supportive environment where friendships were formed, cultural differences were celebrated, and a shared vision of unity and cooperation was nurtured.

Duration

Start date : 14.05.2013     

Completed Date : 19.05.2013

Location(s) 

Ratnasiri Wickramanayake National Training Centre, Hanthana, Kandy

IYC Focal Area(s)

Creating Sustainable Societies

Improving Physical, Mental and Social Well-being

Leadership of the Project

IYC Sri Lanka

Strategic Partnerships

The Secretariat for Muslims, PALTRA

SDG Number

4,5,10,11,16,17

Strategic Goals:

To Embrace Cultural Diversity
To Make a Difference in the Community
To Foster Meaningful Connections
To Create Lasting Change

Fast Facts:

Challenges

Addressing Deeply Rooted Stereotypes
Balancing Power Dynamics and Ensuring Inclusivity
Creating a Supportive and Non-Judgmental Environment

Solutions

Facilitated a deeper understanding of different faiths and promoted interfaith dialogue.
Cultivation of an environment of social harmony and fostered connections between diverse communities.
Equipped participants with effective conflict resolution skills for peaceful problem-solving.
Embraced and celebrated the richness of cultural diversity.

Benefits and Impact 

Strengthened Community Relations
Contribution to an inclusive society
Cultivation of social cohesion