British Council launches ‘Youth-Led Green and Inclusive Businesses’ project in universities

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The British Council inaugurated its flagship project, Youth-Led Green and Inclusive Businesses, in partnership with four state universities, University of Peradeniya, University of Kelaniya, University of Sri Jayewardenepura and University of Uva-Wellassa during an event held recently. This initiative is designed to equip university students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead transformative changes in their workplaces and enterprises, fostering sustainable and environmentally conscious business practices.

The event featured a speech by British Council Country Director, Orlando Edwards, who emphasized the organisation’s commitment to empowering Sri Lanka’s youth as catalysts for green innovation and social inclusion. “At the British Council, we believe that the future lies in the hands of our youth. They are not just the leaders of tomorrow but are making significant impacts today. This belief drives our commitment to support and empower young people around the world to lead initiatives that address critical issues like sustainability and inclusivity,’’ said the Country Director.

Adding further significance to the occasion, Chamindry Saparamadu, the Director General of the Sustainable Development Council of Sri Lanka, said ‘‘Youth can be powerful agents of transformative change. They have fresh perspectives and insights that could be harnessed to offer innovative solutions to our pressing development problems. The efforts of the British Council—in equipping the next generation of our business leaders with the knowledge and skills for business value creation beyond profit—through green and inclusive business development is indeed commendable.’’ She highlighted ongoing efforts to create a cohesive sustainable development framework across sectors, and how programmes such as this align with Sri Lanka’s strategic goals.

Representatives from participating universities expressed their enthusiasm for the collaboration and underscored their commitment to integrating the programme into their extracurricular initiatives. “This partnership is a step towards transforming our students into leaders who can seamlessly blend sustainability and inclusivity into their future careers,” said Prof. Dilukshi Senaratne, Director of the Career Guidance Unit of University of Kelaniya.

The Youth-Led Green and Inclusive Businesses project will engage students through innovative workshops, mentorship programmes, and practical learning opportunities, empowering them to tackle pressing challenges such as climate change, resource efficiency, and equitable growth.

This collaboration between the British Council and state universities marks a pivotal step in fostering a greener, more inclusive future for the country.

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