Chief Prelates Bless Gammadda's 3rd Phase of Ditwah Response

COLOMBO (News 1st); With sacred blessings setting the tone for renewal, the third phase of the Gammadda Rebuild Programme was officially launched today (7) in Nuwara Eliya, marking a critical new step in Sri Lanka’s recovery journey following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah.

The programme received blessings from the Mahanayake Theros of the Asgiriya and Malwathu Chapters of the Siam Sect, highlighting the national and spiritual significance of the initiative aimed at restoring livelihoods and dignity among affected communities.

The Gammadda Rebuild programme is designed to revive the daily lives of people impacted by Cyclone Ditwah by strengthening their professional skills and vocational quality, enabling them to rebuild with resilience and long-term sustainability. It stands as the third decisive phase in Gammadda’s broader mission to help the country rise stronger after the disaster.

The inaugural ceremony was held today at the Nuwara Eliya Technical College premises, under the patronage of Nuwara Eliya District Secretary Tushari Tennakoon.

Several key officials and representatives attended the event, including Assistant Director (Marketing) of the National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority, Priyantha Pranandu, Principal (Electrical) of the Nuwara Eliya Technical College, Sujeewa Medagedara, and Gammadda Assistant Manager Gihan Udyoga, along with other stakeholders.

The primary objective of the programme is to enhance the professional capabilities of people engaged in various trades who were affected by Cyclone Ditwah. In line with this goal, specialised training programmes are being conducted throughout the day for individuals working in a wide range of sectors.

These include masons, carpenters, electricians, metal fabricators, plumbers and garment designers, ensuring that participants receive targeted, practical training relevant to their existing livelihoods.

The programme is being implemented through a joint effort involving the National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority, the Department of Technical Education and Training, and Gammadda, reflecting a coordinated approach to post-disaster recovery and skills development.

Tomorrow, the participants of the programme are scheduled to receive certificates recognising their training, along with the distribution of tools and equipment, further supporting their return to productive employment.

Adding to the strength of the initiative, Australian philanthropy, the Minderoo Foundation, has committed AU$1 million to The Gammadda Movement. This contribution is dedicated to supporting life-saving relief and early recovery efforts for communities devastated by Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka, reinforcing the global support behind the rebuilding process.

With spiritual blessings, institutional collaboration and international backing coming together, the launch of the Gammadda Rebuild Programme in Nuwara Eliya represents a powerful step forward in restoring livelihoods, rebuilding skills and renewing hope for communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah.