The “Sadesa Tharunu Abhiman – 2026” Inter-Provincial Youth Exchange Programme, organised with the objective of promoting the exchange of religious, cultural and social experiences, attitudes and skills among Cadet Boys and Girls, was successfully held from 29 July to 02 August 2026, centred in Clappenberg, Trincomalee.
The programme was conducted under the guidance and direction of the Director of the National Cadet Corps, Major General APCR Premathilaka RSP USP ndc, together with senior officers of the National Cadet Corps. A total of 350 Cadet Boys and Girls representing the Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim communities, along with 50 Cadet Officers and Officer Instructors, representing all provinces of Sri Lanka, participated in the programme.
The key objectives of the programme were to strengthen cooperation among different ethnic communities, identify barriers to reconciliation, develop an understanding of the cultural characteristics of different communities, promote effective communication and facilitate the exchange of knowledge and experiences among participants. The programme also aimed to nurture a generation of young people who respect all communities and religions while appreciating diversity and promoting national unity.
A wide range of activities was organised throughout the programme, including soft skills development programmes, outdoor and leadership activities, recreational programmes, cultural performances, a movie screening, musical programmes, walks and band displays, dining etiquette sessions and boat rides.
As part of the programme, a special community cleaning initiative titled “Shramabhimani” was also launched in the Eastern Province with the active participation of Cadet Boys and Girls representing all parts of the country. The initiative was conducted in collaboration with the Clean Sri Lanka National Programme, providing the young participants with an opportunity to contribute towards environmental conservation and community responsibility.
The Opening Ceremony was held on 30 July 2026 at the Auditorium of St. Joseph’s College, Trincomalee, under the patronage of Deputy Minister of Defence Major General K.P. Aruna Jayasekara (Retired) WWV RSP VSV USP ndc psc.
The Closing Ceremony was held on 02 August 2026 under the patronage of the Governor of the Eastern Province, Professor Jayanthalal Ratnasekera.
The success of the programme was further strengthened by the invaluable support extended by the Tri-Forces, Sri Lanka Police, National Youth Corps, government and private sector institutions, and the people of the Eastern Province.
The programme served as a significant platform for bringing together young people from diverse communities, fostering mutual understanding and strengthening the values of national unity, reconciliation, cooperation and peaceful coexistence. Through shared experiences and meaningful interaction, “Sadesa Tharunu Abhiman – 2026” contributed towards nurturing a young generation committed to building a united and harmonious Sri Lanka.
