Support University Girl Students in Sri Lanka

1. Introduction

During this reporting period, Save a Life implemented initiatives aimed at supporting and empowering university girl students across Sri Lanka. With the generous support of GlobalGiving, the project focused on raising awareness of cyber safety, gender-based violence, and legal protections available to young women. The initiative sought to create a safer academic and digital environment while strengthening students’ confidence and knowledge.

2. Key Activities

Report on Cyber & Gender-Based Violence Legal Awareness Workshop

A focused awareness session was conducted on Wednesday, 25th February from 1.00 PM to 3.00 PM to educate university girl students on critical issues affecting their safety and well-being. The first session (1.00 PM – 2.00 PM) on Cyber & Gender-Based Violence – Legal Aspects provided an overview of Sri Lankan laws related to cybercrime and gender-based violence, helping students understand different forms of abuse, legal consequences for offenders, and the importance of reporting incidents and seeking legal support.

Workshop on Cyber Security & Online Safety: Practical Strategies for University Students

Session 2 (2.00 PM – 3.00 PM) focused on Cyber Security & Online Safety, where students were guided through practical strategies to stay safe in digital spaces, including identifying cyber threats, protecting personal data, and using online platforms responsibly. The session equipped participants with essential knowledge to safeguard themselves, understand their digital rights, and confidently engage online. Overall, the participation was highly encouraging, with active engagement and meaningful discussions throughout the program.

3. Challenges Faced

• Limited Outreach Capacity:
  Due to resource constraints, the program could not yet be expanded to multiple universities nationwide.
• Awareness Gaps:
  Some participants initially had limited understanding of legal frameworks and cyber safety practices.
• Sensitive Nature of the Topic:
  Addressing gender-based violence required careful facilitation to ensure a safe and supportive environment.

4. Impact on the Community

• Enhanced Knowledge and Awareness:
  Participants gained a clearer understanding of cyber risks, legal rights, and available protections.
• Improved Online Safety Practices:
  Students are now better equipped to identify and prevent cyber threats.

• Empowerment and Confidence Building:
  The sessions encouraged young women to speak up, seek help, and support one another in addressing gender-based issues.

5. Plans for Next Phase

• Expand the program to additional universities across Sri Lanka
• Conduct advanced workshops with legal and cybersecurity experts
• Establish peer support networks within campuses
• Develop awareness campaigns using digital platforms

6. Acknowledgment

We extend our sincere gratitude to GlobalGiving and all our supporters for their continued trust and support. Their contribution enables us to empower young women, promote safer environments, and create meaningful impact in the lives of university students across Sri Lanka.

Monthly Report : Support Girls' Education in Sri Lanka #69362
Project Title : Support Girls' Education in Sri Lanka
Reporting Period: June - August 

1. Introduction
Menstruation-related stigma and lack of accurate awareness continue to negatively affect girls’ education in the Jaffna District. Many students are forced to take 2–3 days of leave every month during their menstrual period due to myths, fear and lack of access to menstrual products. As a result their academic performance, confidence and participation in school activities are impacted.
To address this issue we implemented a menstrual health education program in two selected schools in Jaffna. Through this intervention we aimed to ensure that menstruation does not limit a girl’s right to education and dignity.

2. Key Activities
Menstrual Health Awareness Training Sessions:  We conducted participatory and scientifically based menstrual health sessions for schoolgirls aged 12–18. The training focused on:
Understanding the menstrual cycle
Hygiene practices to prevent infections
Breaking harmful myths and misconceptions
Emotional support and confidence building
Encouraging open discussions without shame

Sanitary Pad Distribution
To ensure regular school attendance and support menstrual hygiene management we distributed sanitary pads to girls from lowvincome families.
Schools Reached: 3
Total Girls Benefited: 150

3. Impact on the Community

1. School attendance Students reported reduced leave during menstruation
2. Stigma reduction Myths and taboos addressed through open dialogue
3. Empowerment Girls felt respected and supported in managing their health
4. Many students expressed that this was the first time they received correct information about menstruation in a safe space.

4. Challenges Faced
Initial shyness among students to speak about menstruation openly
Limited funding restricting the number of schools supported
We are working to expand community partnerships to overcome these challenges.

5. Plans for the Next Phase
Extend menstrual health education to more schools in Jaffna District
Distribute reusable sanitary pad kits for sustainability to selected students
Conduct awareness sessions for parents and teachers

6. Acknowledgment
We express our sincere gratitude to GlobalGiving and all donors who supported this effort. Your contributions are helping girls stay in school with dignity, confidence and pride in womanhood. Together we are creating a future where menstruation is not a barrier to education.