The Centre for Policy Innovation and Development (CPID) successfully concluded its inaugural workshop, “Empowering the Youth in a Changing World: Opportunities from China–Sri Lanka Cooperation,” bringing together 45 emerging young leaders from diverse professional, academic, and social backgrounds in Colombo.
The workshop was designed to help young leaders better understand the rapidly evolving global landscape while exploring the opportunities arising from the growing partnership between Sri Lanka and China. Participants engaged in discussions on geopolitics, economic transformation, technological innovation, governance, and youth leadership.
The programme featured four distinguished resource persons who shared their expertise from diverse perspectives.
Mr. Indrananda Abeysekara, Chairman of the Association for Sri Lanka–China Socio-Cultural Partnership, spoke on the longstanding relationship between Sri Lanka and China, emerging challenges and opportunities, Chinese culture, and China’s approach to human development.
Mr. Vinod Munasinghe, Convener of the Asia Progress Forum, delivered a comprehensive session on China’s 15th Five-Year Plan, explaining its priorities and the opportunities it presents for economic development, regional cooperation, and youth.
Mr. Hemantha Srilal, a political commentator and social media influencer, discussed the impact of digital culture, youth-led protest movements, and the evolving role of young people in South Asia’s political and social landscape.
Mr. Dilanka Karunarathne, who holds a Master of Public Administration from Tsinghua University, shared his experiences studying in China and offered insights into governance, public policy, and leadership in a rapidly changing world.
The interactive discussions and question-and-answer sessions reflected the participants’ strong interest in understanding global developments and identifying new opportunities through China–Sri Lanka cooperation.
CPID remains committed to creating platforms that empower young leaders with knowledge, global perspectives, and practical insights to contribute meaningfully to Sri Lanka’s future. The organisation plans to conduct a series of similar workshops across the country in the coming months.
