Caritas Sri Lanka – SEDEC in collaboration with Caritas Chilaw and Caritas Seth Sarana organized a peace programme titled “Building Dialogue Skills to Improve Constructive Interaction for Peace,” funded by CAFOD on the 9th of July 2024, the Seth Sarana Center in Raddolugama, Seeduwa. The event ran from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and saw active participation from a diverse group of stakeholders and beneficiaries, including DC directors, program coordinators, and peace coordinators from Chilaw and Colombo. The participants comprised with six men and thirty-eight women together with Fr. Nilantha Heshan, Director – Seth Sarana.
The primary objective of the program was to highlight the importance of active listening, empathy, and open-mindedness in facilitating productive conversations. By imparting these essential dialogue skills, the event aimed at motivating the participants on peace and constructive interactions within communities. The resource person for the day was Dr. Pradeep N. Weerasinghe, a Senior Lecturer from the Department of Mass Media at the University of Colombo, who brought valuable insights and expertise to the session.
Key highlights of the program included techniques for being an effective listener and using empathy and love in dialogues to build positive relationships. Participants found these methods particularly beneficial, as they can use the knowledge in various scenarios to improve communication and understanding. The ultimate goal of those sessions was to help individuals develop more meaningful and positive relationships in their personal and professional lives.
Direct observations from the event revealed that women were particularly active and engaged. Through a series of discussions and activities, they enhanced their listening and interaction skills, towards a peaceful and collaborative environment. There had been participants’ real-life experiences which further highlighted in their impactful group presentations. These presentations underscored the session’s relevance and importance, as they helped participants support one another and apply the skills learned to their daily lives.
This program was organized under the goals and objectives of Sustainable Peace and Justice Unit of Caritas Sri Lanka SEDEC. This showed the organization’s commitment to promoting peace and constructive dialogue. The success of the event highlights the critical role of such initiatives in building a more empathetic and understanding society, equipped with the skills necessary for positive and productive interactions.
