The Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP) successfully conducted a two-day Digital Democracy Training Workshop for Malaiyaha youth from Galle, Matara, and Kalutara districts in Sri Lanka, with the generous support of Accountability Lab. A total of 18 young participants actively engaged in this important learning experience.
This initiative was designed in response to the limited representation and structural marginalization faced by Southern and Western Malaiyaha communities in democratic spaces. The program aimed to strengthen youth capacity for civic engagement through both democratic knowledge and digital tools.
Understanding Democracy in Practice
The training began with an interactive introduction to democracy. Participants reflected on the true meaning of democracy and took part in a simulation of elections and governance. This powerful exercise highlighted both the strengths and limitations of majority rule, especially the exclusion that minority communities can experience.
Exploring Digital Democracy
The sessions then focused on digital democracy and how technology can enhance participation, transparency, accountability, and representation. Participants learned about important democratic mechanisms such as the Right to Information (RTI) Act, election-related digital platforms, and online public service systems.
Responsible Digital Engagement
A key discussion explored the negative impacts of social media — including misinformation, hate speech, and digital violence — using real-life examples such as the Digana incident. This encouraged critical thinking and responsible, ethical online engagement.
Hands-on Digital Skills for Advocacy
Participants were trained to use digital tools including Canva, ChatGPT, DALL·E, CapCut, and other video editing platforms to create advocacy content. Through group activities, they produced short videos and songs reflecting the real situation of Malaiyaha estate communities — highlighting issues such as limited access to information, infrastructure gaps, and social inequalities.
Reflection, Presentation & Action Planning
The training concluded with group presentations, reflection discussions, and future action planning. Participants expressed increased confidence in using digital platforms for social change and civic participation.
Acknowledgements
The training was effectively facilitated by Mrs. Vibooshi Balakrishnan, who served as the knowledgeable resource person.
Anthony Jesudasan, Executive Director of VOPP, provided motivational support throughout the program.
Technical and logistical coordination was successfully managed by:
Lavina Hasanthi – Head of Program / Mithara Perera – Finance Officer / Anton Wanaththaiya – Field Manager /K. Yogsuji – Kalutara District Coordinator.
We sincerely thank Accountability Lab for supporting this initiative and for strengthening youth engagement in democratic processes.
VOPP remains committed to empowering Malaiyaha youth to actively participate in democratic spaces and use digital platforms responsibly to amplify their voices.
