The Palmyrah Development Board (PDB) successfully organized an Awarding Ceremony and Handicraft Exhibition on 23rd August 2025 at Saraswathy Hall, Jaffna. The event was conducted under the theme of empowering women through skill improvement in palmyrah leaf handicraft making, and developing sustainable livelihoods through continuous production and marketing.
The program commenced with guest registration, oil lamp lighting, a welcome dance, and the opening of a product exhibition. Following the welcome address by Ms. T. Suganija, Acting Manager (Extension), PDB, a project overview was presented by Mrs. S. Janarthanan, Manager (Development), PDB.
Special addresses were delivered by Ms. Kumudhini Rosa, Head of Project (Technical), GIZ Vocational Training Project, Sri Lanka, and Mr. K. Gopalakrishnan, Former Manager (Extension), PDB.
The Chairman of the Palmyrah Development Board, Mr. R. Raveenthiran, addressed the gathering before the awarding ceremony took place, where trainees received certificates in recognition of their achievements.
A special highlight of the event was the success story sharing session, showcasing the progress and impact of palmyrah-based handicraft training programs.
The Chief Guest, Hon. R. Chandrasekar, Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, delivered the keynote address, appreciating the efforts of the artisans and the Board in uplifting the palmyrah industry. The event concluded with an entertainment program and a vote of thanks.
The ceremony not only recognized the hard work of artisans but also emphasized the role of palmyrah products in strengthening women’s empowerment and sustainable economic development in Sri Lanka.
