The important role of Development Organizations as powerful facilitators and catalysts in bringing change

International Development Organizations are recognized for their long-term commitment to development efforts, ability to deliver and drive practical interventions, promote community participation, build grass-roots institutions and make lasting impacts.

Discussing the distinctive competences and innovative programs non-profit organizations offer in the development process, ChildFund Sri Lanka organized an insightful forum recently titled ‘Rebuilding the country through public engagement in development work’, bringing together experts from the public and private sector and academia – all engaging in meaningful conversations on the different skills each realm brings to the table.

Kaushal Mendis, Human Resources Director, Gamma Pizzakraft Lanka (Pvt), Ms. R. M. K. De Silva, Director/ ECD and Primary Education, National Institute of Education and Prof. Saumya Liyanage, Professor in Theatre and Drama, University of the Visual and Performing Arts, Colombo participated in the discussions. Dinantha Thambavita, Resource Development Director at ChildFund Sri Lanka moderated the sessions.

Elaborating on the objective of the panel, Neelam Makhijani Country Director ChildFund Sri Lanka stated that development is a complex undertaking that cannot be achieved by any one sector alone. She noted, “While we need to bring the different players on to the same table. The development sector needs to be recognized for the skills and the knowhow that they bring to the table. We have that capability. It is crucial to recognize our strengths and recognizing what the non-profit sector can do would be a very big step in the right direction. This sector should be seen and given its rightful place, as part of larger conversations for development with important stakeholders.”