The All Island Short Video Competition, under the theme of ‘Let’s contribute to reducing climate change through responsible waste management’ (නිසි අපද්රව්ය කළමනාකරණය තුලින් දේශගුණ විපර්යාස අවම කිරීමට දායක වෙමු) was successfully conducted recently, in celebration of World Environment Day. The competition was organized together by the Central Environmental Authority (CEA), along with the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education. This was conducted as part of Nestlé Lanka’s efforts of fostering positive behavioural change on responsible waste disposal amongst the youth in Sri Lanka.
An event was held on 25 June 2026 at the Central Environmental Authority, to recognize and award the winners. The event was graced by the Honourable Anton Jayakodi, Deputy Minister of Environment, Professor Tilak Hewawasam, Chairman of the Central Environmental Authority, Mrs. Asha De Silva, Director of Education - Agriculture and Environment, Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education, and Ruwan Welikala, Director – Corporate Affairs & Communications, Nestlé Lanka.
“A short video competition was organized under both school and open categories. It can be considered a good try to make people aware of the environment. These kinds of knowledge-sharing programs are very important and beneficial to bring a positive attitudinal change in everyone to protect our surroundings and preserve our environment for future generations” commented Honourable Anton Jayakodi, Deputy Minister of Environment.
Sharing his thoughts, Professor Tilak Hewawasam, Chairman of the Central Environmental Authority said, “At a time when climate action is of the essence, this initiative serves as a powerful platform to engage and empower Sri Lanka’s youth. By channelling their creativity, we are not only raising awareness about responsible waste disposal but also nurturing a generation that values sustainability. We are thrilled to partner with Nestlé Lanka on this noteworthy initiative”.
“Responsible waste disposal plays an important role in strengthening waste segregation and collection systems, while cultivating positive habits from an early age. We are delighted to have supported in organizing the All Island Short Video Competition, which provided a platform for young people to showcase their creativity while encouraging greater awareness and action towards responsible waste management. As Nestlé Lanka celebrates 120 years of operations in Sri Lanka, initiatives such as these reflect our continued commitment to creating shared value for communities and promoting a circular economy through awareness and education. The passion and creativity demonstrated by the participants give us confidence in the next generation’s ability to contribute to a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable future for Sri Lanka. My heartfelt congratulations to all the participants and winners,” said Mr. Ruwan Welikala, Director – Corporate Affairs & Communications, Nestlé Lanka.
The entries from the competition were evaluated by an esteemed panel of judges, comprising of - Prof. Patrick Ratnayake, Cadre Chair and Senior Professor, Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya; Mr. Anuradha Dewapriya, Senior Environmental Journalist; and Mr. Mahesh Chathuranga, Senior Photographer.
Winners of the competition are as follows;
1st place (School Individual Category) - Binadi Jihansa Basnayake, Thelijjawila Central College
2nd place (School Individual Category) – U.J. Sayuni Tharumindi, Thelijjawila Central College
3rd place (School Group Category) – Thelijjawila Central College – J.V. Kulansa Sanuli, K.M. Thenuki Thehasna, W.P. Thenuri Thimasha, Thanusha Dulmina, M.K. Nadija Tashen
Guided by its purpose of ‘unlocking the power of food to enhance quality of life for everyone, today and for generations to come’, Nestlé Lanka has been enriching Sri Lankan lives for 120 years, nourishing generations with tasty, and nutritious products across the country. The company remains committed to supporting healthier families, empowered communities, and a greener planet. Nestlé Lanka manufactures over 90% of its products locally at its state‑of‑the‑art factory in Kurunegala, upholding the highest standards of safety and quality.
