The Sri Lanka Foundation Institute (SLFI), in collaboration with the International Red Cross, has officially commenced a specialized “Training of Trainers” (ToT) program focused on psychosocial interventions for children surviving natural disasters. This vital three-day initiative, held at the SLFI premises from the 8th to the 10th of this month, addresses the critical mental health needs of children affected by calamities such as cyclones, landslides, and floods. By equipping trainers with specialized skills, the program aims to ensure that vulnerable children receive the necessary psychological support to recover from the trauma of environmental crises.
The program benefits from the strategic guidance and academic leadership of Professor Athula Sumathipala and Senior Consultant Psychiatrist Dr. Neil Fernando, ensuring the interventions are grounded in both clinical expertise and practical application. The sessions began today with a keynote address by Professor Athula Sumathipala, which set the tone for the intervention by emphasizing the importance of integrating psychosocial care into disaster response frameworks. This partnership between SLFI and the International Red Cross underscores a shared commitment to building community resilience and protecting the mental well-being of the next generation during times of crisis.
