Date and Venue: August 23, 2024, PHDT Head Office, Battaramulla.
The PHDT Head Office hosted a significant event on August 23, 2024, known as the Tea Dialogue – NGO Forum, aimed at addressing critical issues related to adolescent nutrition. The event featured distinguished speakers and NGO representatives who shared insights and strategies on empowering adolescents to meet their nutritional needs in the plantation sector.
Welcome Speech and Introduction:
The forum commenced with a welcome speech by the Director General of PHDT Mr. Lal Perera, who provided an overview of the Tea Dialogue’s objectives. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among various organizations to develop effective strategies for enhancing adolescent nutrition and overall well-being in estate communities.
Keynote Speech:
Dr. Sarath Amunugama (Director – Health), a prominent figure in nutritional sciences, delivered the keynote speech. His address focused on the importance of empowering adolescents through proper nutrition to foster holistic development and resilience.
Guest Presentations:
Ms. Diyadri Morayash (Consultant – Leads Organization):
Ms. Diyadri Morayash presented on the wide range of services provided by Leads to support vulnerable populations in estate communities.
Ms. S. Nidarshana (Programme Officer – ADIC Organization):
Ms. Nidarshana delivered a compelling presentation on “Impactful Alcohol Prevention in the Estates.” She discussed the challenges posed by alcohol consumption in estate communities and ADIC’s successful strategies for prevention and awareness. Her presentation highlighted the importance of education, community mobilization, and policy advocacy in reducing alcohol-related harm among adolescents and their families.
The event provided a platform for networking, sharing best practices, and fostering partnerships to support the nutritional needs of adolescents. Participants engaged in lively discussions and workshops, paving the way for future initiatives and collaborations in the field of adolescent nutrition.
Overall, the Tea Dialogue – NGO Forum at PHDT Head Office served as a pivotal gathering to advocate for and advance the nutritional well-being of adolescents, reflecting a commitment to community health and sustainable development in the plantation sector.
