In the truest sense of the word, “ස්වභාසමූද්ර” reflects the combination of nurturing life on land and in the sea, from cultivating medicinal gardens that heal the earth to protecting marine ecosystems that sustain biodiversity. This is an initiative by the Community Service Avenue of Rotaract Club of University of Kelaniya. It embodies a holistic vision where community, education, and conservation come together to create a sustainable future for next generations. With the Strong Shadow of 1.0 initiative, 2.0 draws inspiration from its pioneering achievements. Let’s take a look at the journey we have come to with this initiative.
This impactful and massive project consist of 4 phases which reflects its comprehensive approach to environmental Stewardship.
Phase 01: Herbal Gardening at Schools and SDG Related Projects
This phase marked an important milestone and a strong start in our journey to nurture a new generation with the wisdom of nature. “Establishing Medicinal Gardens” is the main task of this phase. On 15th August 2024, we successfully completed this wonderful task of planting medicinal plants with the following participating schools,
• Kelani Maha Vidyalaya
• Habarakada Junior School
• Hunupitiya Dharmapala Buddhist Primary School
• Dalupitiya Vidyachandra Vidyalaya
• Sri Sumangala Maha Vidyalaya
Not stopping there, we established school-based environmental associations and encouraged each school to undertake a school-level project addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. A first aid campaign, an art competition on the theme of environmental conservation, the construction of a pond on the school premises, and an entrepreneurial effort to create medicinal oils and mosquito repellant and other medicinal products are some of the projects undertaken by those schools. Ananda College also joined by us to succeed this initiative.
In this transformative phase that combines education, sustainability, and wellness. Together, we cultivated not just gardens but a lasting appreciation for nature’s healing power. With the hope of encouraging our future generation, we have focused on giving awards by selecting the Most Popular Herbal Garden, Most Sustainable Project and Most Creative Herbal Gardens.
The Awards Ceremony of 1st Phase of ස්වභාසමුද්ර 2.0 hold on 14th October, 2024 at Faculty of Social Science Auditorium, University of Kelaniya. On that day, we have distributed appointment letters to the Committee members of Environmental Society. That was the remarkable ending of our 1st phase.
Phase 02: Mangrove Plantation: Safeguarding the Lifeguards of Our Shores
We did this to strengthen the Natural protectors of our coastline. On the 24th of December 2024, we successfully completed the second phase of our mangrove planting initiative in Kalpitiya, marking another significant step in our ongoing commitment to environmental conservation. With the collective effort of our dedicated team and volunteers, over 700 mangrove saplings were planted, contributing to the restoration and protection of vital coastal ecosystems. The day was not only about planting trees but also about building connections, sharing smiles, and creating memories that inspire continued action. As we celebrated this meaningful achievement, we were reminded of the power of community and purpose.
Phase 03: E-waste Management
We initiated this phase in response to the growing need to address the pressing issue of electronic waste (E-waste), which affects many people today. To better understand public awareness on the topic, we conducted research focused on undergraduates at the University of Kelaniya, aiming to gather their knowledge and attitudes toward E-waste. Based on the findings and recommendations from our research report, we organized awareness sessions in schools to educate younger generations. And also, we shared a series of videos highlighting what E-waste is, its harmful effects on health and the environment, and practical solutions to combat this threat.
In a further effort to drive impactful change, we also engaged in a pioneering discussion with INFINITY GREEN INTERNATIONAL (PVT) LTD. This collaboration represents a significant step toward building a sustainable, zero E-waste future. The discussion was recorded and shared on YouTube to extend its reach and inspire broader community engagement. This company also provided e-waste bins for schools, demonstrating their contribution to prevent unnecessary e-waste disposal.
Like this way, we have laid the foundation for lasting impact. This phase not only empowered individuals with knowledge but also sparked collective action, aligning with our vision for a cleaner, greener future.
Phase 04: Sea Turtles Conversation and Garbage Bins Replacement at Beaches
Phase 04 of ස්වභාසමූද්ර 2.0 focused on Marine conservation and coastal cleanliness. As part of our commitment to protecting endangered marine life, we actively contributed to sea turtle conservation efforts in Panadura, engaging in night patrols across four days and participating in the heartwarming experience of releasing baby sea turtles back into the ocean. Simultaneously, we addressed coastal pollution by replacing garbage bins at key public beaches including Mount Lavinia, Panadura, and Dehiwala, promoting cleaner and more sustainable coastal environments.
On May 1st and 2nd, our team extended its conservation mission to Rekawa, where we donated essential equipment to support night patrol operations. In collaboration with MAS Holdings, we also distributed garbage bins in Rekawa Sea Turtle Sanctuary, reinforcing our joint effort in safeguarding marine habitats. We concluded this impactful phase by commemorating our journey through ස්වභාසමූද්ර with a memorable night camp at Blue Beach Island, reflecting on the collective achievements and the path forward.
Team ස්වභාසමූද්ර: We were united by purpose and anchored by friendship.
As we look back on the journey of ස්වභාසමූද්ර, what shines brightest is not just the impact we made on our environment, but the unbreakable bonds and memories we created as an organizing committee. From our very first planning meetings to the final night camp under the stars, we grew not only as a team but as a family united by purpose. In particular, our Vice President: Rtr. Pabamini Ahangama and the Directors of Community Service Avenue: Rtr. Darshi Chamodya, Rtr. Dinanga Perera and Rtr. Ravindu Lakshitha were the backbone of this great impact.
Throughout this Rotaract term, we’ve proven that with friendship, commitment, and unity, even the wildest dreams can turn into powerful movements. ස්වභාසමූද්ර 2.0 was more than just a project—it was a journey of hearts aligned with nature, and a celebration of the strength we find in each other. As we sail forward, we carry with us not only the legacy we’ve built but the lifelong friendships that made it all possible.
