Rashika Hennayake

January 29, Colombo (LNW): The Institute of Democracy and Governance (IDAG) successfully held its Certificate Awarding Ceremony on 24 January 2026 at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute, Colombo 07, marking the conclusion of two flagship executive education programs implemented under its Democracy in Practice initiative. The ceremony celebrated the successful completion of the Executive Certificate in Democracy and Local Governance and the Executive Certificate in Democracy and Parliamentary Governance, recognizing the commitment of public representatives and civic actors to strengthening democratic governance in Sri Lanka.

At a time when democracies across the world face complex and evolving challenges, IDAG continues to position civic education and capacity building as central pillars of democratic resilience. Established with the purpose of strengthening democracy through informed participation, ethical leadership, and accountable governance, IDAG works at the intersection of citizens, institutions, and public policy, translating democratic values into practical governance outcomes.

The event was graced by H.E. Dr. Siri Walt, Ambassador of Switzerland to Sri Lanka and Maldives, as Chief Guest. In her address, the Ambassador underscored the importance of inclusive governance, democratic institutions, and capacity building for public representatives, reaffirming Switzerland’s long-standing commitment to democratic development and civic education initiatives in Sri Lanka.

The ceremony was further honored by the presence of distinguished special guests, including H.E. Jean‑François Pactet, Ambassador of France to Sri Lanka and Maldives; Lilantha A. Kalukapuarachchi, Secretary to the Governor of the Western Province; and Hon. Chandima Hettiarachchi, Member of Parliament and Secretary of the Swiss–Sri Lanka Parliamentary Friendship Association. Their participation reflected strong diplomatic and institutional support for initiatives aimed at strengthening democratic governance and public accountability.

Delivering addresses at the ceremony were Prof. Lakshman R. Watawala, Chairman of the IDAG Advisory Board and Principal of the Sri Lanka Law College, President’s Counsel Prashantha Lal De Alwis, Honorary Advisor to the IDAG Advisory Board and Prof Samitha Hettige. All speakers emphasized the critical role of education, constitutional literacy, and ethical leadership in sustaining democratic systems, particularly at local and parliamentary levels.

Under the Democracy in Practice initiative, IDAG successfully concluded the Executive Certificate in Democracy and Local Governance in both Sinhala and Tamil mediums. A total of 207 participants qualified for certification in the Sinhala medium, while 57 participantssuccessfully completed the program in the Tamil medium. These programs were specifically designed for newly elected representatives of local government institutions, equipping them with a clear understanding of their constitutional mandates, institutional responsibilities, and the principles of democratic local governance.

In addition, the Executive Certificate in Democracy and Parliamentary Governance which was conducted by IDAG in collaboration with BALPP) Bandaranaike Academy for Leadership and Public Policy saw 42 participants successfully qualify for certification. This program was tailored for Members of Parliament, government officials, civil and political society actors, and emerging leaders, with a focus on parliamentary procedures, democratic institutions, governance reform, and public accountability.

Across all programs, IDAG emphasized inclusive leadership, ethical decision-making, transparency, and citizen participation, values that form the foundation of a strong and resilient democracy. The courses were delivered by university academics, subject experts, and experienced professionals, ensuring a balance between theoretical grounding and practical application.

IDAG gratefully acknowledged the guidance and advice of Hon. Karu Jayasuriya, former Speaker of the Parliament of Sri Lanka, whose insights played a key role in shaping and strengthening these programs. Special acknowledgment was also extended to Prof. Chaminda Abeysinghe, Dr. Priyantha Mudalige, Mr. Dhamma Dissanayake, Dr. Indi Akurugoda, Dr. Dayani Panagoda, Mr. Indika Perera, Mr. Dharmasiri Nanayakkara, Dr. Viranjana Herath, Mr. Charuka Perera, Mr. Ruchira Perera, and Mrs. Gayani Premathilaka for their valuable contributions as lecturers and facilitators.

Looking ahead, IDAG announced its intention to expand and strengthen its capacity-building and training programs in the coming year, with a renewed focus on democratic governance, civic education, and good governance reforms. Through continued collaboration with public institutions, academia, civil society, and international partners, IDAG remains committed to building a democratic culture that is informed, participatory, and responsive to the needs of the people.

The Certificate Awarding Ceremony 2026 thus marked not only the conclusion of academic programs, but also a reaffirmation of IDAG’s mission to nurture democracy through knowledge, responsibility, and practice.

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