Empowering leaders: Success story of Executive Diploma in Democracy, Decentralisation, and Local Governance

Honorary Consul for Sri Lanka in Bavaria and UNICEF Germany Deputy Chair Dagmar Wöhrl	IDAG Founder  Karu Jayasuriya	IDAG Advisory Board Chairperson Prof. Lakshman R. Watawala	IOP Chairperson Prof. Aminda Methsila Perera

The Institute of Democracy and Governance (IDAG), founded by Karu Jayasuriya, is an institution dedicated to strengthening democracy and promoting good governance in Sri Lanka. Its mission is rooted in enhancing ethical leadership capacities across all levels of governance through comprehensive education programs, leadership training, and facilitating policy-related dialogues. IDAG’s vision emphasises transparency, accountability, and active civic participation as essential pillars for building a strong and vibrant democratic society. 

Guided by a distinguished advisory board led by Professor Lakshman R. Watawala, IDAG continues to invest in educational and awareness-building initiatives that aim to develop responsible and capable leaders for the future.

In collaboration with the Institute of Politics (IOP), an organisation with over two decades of experience in conducting educational programs on governance and policy, IDAG launched the Executive Diploma in Democracy, Decentralisation, and Local Governance on 30 September, 2024. The program officially commenced lectures on 19 October 2024, offering a rich and dynamic curriculum designed to equip participants with essential knowledge and skills for advancing grassroots democracy and effective local governance. This initiative was carried out as a fully sponsored, tuition-free course, reflecting IDAG’s commitment to making quality education accessible to individuals committed to public service and community leadership.

The Executive Diploma program attracted a diverse group of students from across the country. A total of 145 participants successfully completed the course, demonstrating exceptional dedication and enthusiasm. The program, delivered through a blend of theoretical learning and practical insights, emphasised participatory governance, decentralisation principles, leadership development, and the strengthening of local institutions.

The successful culmination of the program was marked by a prestigious diploma awarding ceremony held on 24 of April at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute. This significant event brought together distinguished guests, faculty members, graduates, and dignitaries, celebrating the achievements of the participants and the collaborative spirit of the institutions involved.

The ceremony featured inspiring addresses by eminent figures, including IOP Chairperson Professor Aminda Methsila Perera, IDAG’s Advisory Board Chairperson Professor Lakshman R. Watawala, and IDAG Founder SriLankabhimanya Karu Jayasuriya. Their speeches emphasised the vital role of educated and principled leadership in sustaining democratic values and fostering community empowerment.

The keynote address was delivered by the Chief Guest, Former State Minister of Economy and Technology of the Federal Republic of Germany, Honorary Consul for Sri Lanka in Bavaria, and UNICEF Germany Deputy Chair Dagmar Wöhrl. In her speech, Wöhrl offered profound insights into the significance of democracy, decentralisation, and good governance, providing inspiration to the graduates as they commence their professional journeys.

The Executive Diploma in Democracy, Decentralisation, and Local Governance stands as a landmark initiative, a testament to IDAG and IOP’s commitment to nurturing a new generation of leaders. By empowering individuals through education and leadership development, these institutions continue to play a crucial role in advancing democratic governance and creating a more inclusive and participatory future for Sri Lanka.

Through initiatives like this, IDAG reaffirms its founding purpose: to strengthen democracy and good governance by educating, building awareness, and developing ethical leadership across all layers of governance.