Location: Divisional Secretary Office, Pitabeddara, Akuressa

The tranquil setting of Pitabeddara and Akuressa in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka was the stage for a notable event in early July 2024, as the 77th “Seed to Success” program took root. This collaborative effort, organized by the National Youth Services Council (NYSC) and backed by the unwavering commitment of Mrs. S.K.G. Prasangika, Divisional Secretary of Pitabeddara, and Mrs. N.K. Dhammika, Officer in charge of the youth service division, aimed to empower rural communities through sustainable agricultural practices, with a particular emphasis on coconut cultivation.

The foundation of this initiative was laid through a series of engagements spearheaded by Mr. A.H. Sineth, Secretary of NYSC, who recognized the transformative potential of village-based agricultural programs. Building on the success of previous programs, they invited good hands to replicate this initiative in the economically challenged regions of Pitabeddara and Akuressa. Nestled in the heart of Pitabeddara, the Urban Council – Town Hall served as the hub of the program’s activities.

The event commenced with enthusiasm, as villagers, farmers, and members of youth communities, totaling approximately 90 individuals, eagerly participated in the enriching activities. Distinguished speakers, including Mr. Lahiru, Assistant Manager from CSR Division, and key officials from NYSC, illuminated pressing agricultural challenges and innovative cultivation strategies, sparking a renewed passion for sustainable practices among the attendees. Interactive sessions and informative presentations deepened participants’ understanding of agriculture, while meticulously planned practical sessions offered hands-on learning experiences. Under the guidance of good hands team experts and dedicated community leaders, participants engaged in activities ranging from preparing coconut pits to nurturing seedlings in designated nurseries.

In response to community leaders’ requests, the program organized seminars to inspire young participants to pursue higher education in agriculture-related fields. This initiative aimed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the modern agricultural sector, thereby enhancing their future prospects. Coconut seedlings were distributed, symbolizing a collective commitment to sustainable agriculture. And the distribution of “GHI Coconut Cultivation Handbooks & Leaflets” supplemented participants’ knowledge and promoted continuous learning.

The program concluded with a comprehensive discussion on the ongoing support for the project, emphasizing the importance of continuous planting, protection, and sustainable agricultural activities. The “Seed to Success” initiative in Pitabeddara and Akuressa stands as a testament to the power of community collaboration and the significance of sustainable agricultural practices in uplifting rural economies.