Brightens Mahaweli Centre for World Tourism Day
COLOMBO, SRI LANKA – Sri Lanka marked World Tourism Day on September 27th with a vibrant ceremony at the Mahaweli Centre, which was officially relaunched as a specialized tourism complex dedicated to showcasing the nation’s indigenous irrigation and water culture. The event, attended by subject ministers, local, and international tourism delegates, celebrated the rich heritage of the Mahaweli region.
The undeniable highlight of the celebration, drawing significant local and foreign attention, was the ”Dumbara Green Student Excellence” exhibition.
Turning Threat into Treasure
This unique display was the immediate and highly visible fruition of the Dumbara Green Empowerment Project (DGEP). The project addresses a critical environmental challenge: the widespread presence of invasive plant species that pose a severe threat to the rich biodiversity of the Knuckles Mountain Range. The DGEP’s innovative approach trains local communities to process these destructive invasive plants and transform them into valuable, eco-friendly goods, primarily focusing on handmade paper and related green products.
Empowerment through Green Skills
This special program was initiated and guided by the Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Lands, and Irrigation, Hon. Lalith Kanth, and Ministry Secretary D.P. Wickremesinghe, under the execution of National Project Director, Ms. Chandika V. Ethugala.
The diverse array of items and creative designs showcased their newfound skills and the commercial potential of this green initiative.
Commercial and Critical Success
Titled ”Dumbara Green Student Excellence” (Dumbara Haritha Sisu Viskam), the exhibition garnered immense appraisal and inquiry from the large gathering, including both local and foreign tourists, who were fascinated by the concept of environmental conservation merging with artistic production. A particularly noteworthy success of the day was the immediate commercial interest: the exhibition secured various large-scale orders from recognized national companies on the spot.
A Model for Sustainable Tourism and Conservation
The success of the Dumbara Green Empowerment Project and its student exhibition showcases a powerful, sustainable model for tourism, skills development, and environmental conservation, paving the way for a brighter, greener future for the Mahaweli region and the protection of the Knuckles’ natural heritage.
