The Bangladesh-Sri Lanka Cross-Cultural Exchange Event, hosted by the Miridiya Organization in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka, from December 11-12, 2024, became a remarkable platform for fostering youth leadership and sustainable development.
Among the participants were three distinguished youth representatives from Bangladesh, all proud students and alumni of the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB): Md Azizul Islam Tuhin, Alfi Shahrin, and Rahmuna Afrin.
This dynamic event brought together over 30 youth leaders from Sri Lanka alongside their Bangladeshi counterparts to engage in workshops, discussions, and interactive sessions.
The agenda was focused on leadership development, cross-cultural dialogue, cultural diversity, and sustainability, creating an environment of collaboration to address shared challenges and explore solutions for positive social change.
ULAB's significant presence
Md Azizul Islam Tuhin, Senior Research and Communications Officer at ULAB's Center for Enterprise and Society (CES), played a pivotal role in the event. Reflecting on his experience, he said: "This event was an incredible learning experience. The exchange of ideas expanded my understanding of global issues. I’m grateful to Manoj Silva for guiding us through their fieldwork, which gave us practical insights into their impactful work."
Tuhin's participation highlighted ULAB's commitment to fostering youth empowerment and sustainability.
His contributions during discussions and field visits further emphasized ULAB's ethos of producing graduates who actively engage in creating solutions for global challenges.
Alfi Shahrin, a former ULAB student and now Media and Communication Officer at Nari Maitree, shared how the event expanded her perspective: "This exchange program has truly broadened my horizon. Connecting with fellow youth leaders from Sri Lanka, learning about their challenges, and sharing our experiences has strengthened my commitment to community development and sustainability."
Similarly, Rahmuna Afrin, a youth leader at Nari Maitree and ULAB alumna, emphasized the value of the cross-cultural exchange, saying: "The exchange was enriching, and I gained valuable insights on leadership and sustainability. The field visits organized by Miridiya deepened our understanding and will inspire us to advocate for youth empowerment."
Cultural and leadership highlights
One of the most celebrated aspects of the event was the Cultural Night, where participants showcased traditional music, dance, and storytelling.
This vibrant exchange of heritage and art fostered mutual respect and cultural appreciation.
The program concluded with a certificate-giving ceremony, where WJC Manoj Silva, Managing Director of the Miridiya Organization, honored the Bangladeshi youth leaders for their contributions.
Building bridges for sustainability
The collaboration between Bangladeshi and Sri Lankan youth leaders underscored the importance of shared commitment to sustainable development.
The event created opportunities for lasting partnerships and emphasized the importance of cross-cultural exchange in addressing global challenges.
The University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh, represented by its students and alumni, demonstrated the impact of its educational philosophy, which integrates social responsibility, leadership, and innovation.
The event was not just a testament to ULAB's role in empowering its students but also a step forward in strengthening Bangladesh-Sri Lanka relations through youth-led initiatives.
Gratitude and future aspirations
The Miridiya Organization expressed heartfelt thanks to all participants, with Managing Director Manoj Silva saying: "You are the future leaders who can drive positive change in your communities. Continue to empower one another, learn from different cultures, and work together to tackle the challenges ahead."
The event's success reaffirmed the shared goals of promoting youth empowerment and sustainable development.
For the ULAB representatives, the exchange marked a milestone in their journey as global youth leaders, committed to creating a more interconnected and sustainable world.
