Introducing an IPYG Affiliate Organization – Economic Development Welfare Foudation (EDWF)
“Together We Grow Up” – Tree Planting Program in Kandy
The Economic Development Welfare Foundation (EDWF) in Kandy, Sri Lanka, has become a key player in global peace initiatives, extending beyond local community peace activities. Founded in 2000 and officially registered in 2002 with the Sri Lankan government as a non-governmental organization (NGO) in Kandy, EDWF operates actively in Kandy and Matale, focusing on the central region of Sri Lanka.
EDWF has established a systematic organizational structure in Kandy and maintains a strong network with local youth volunteers. Its activities are centered on five core areas: education, environmental protection, disaster recovery, youth and women empowerment, and peacebuilding. Through offline education programs, such as youth leadership training and peace sports activities, EDWF instills the values of peace in children, adolescents, and young adults, supporting them to grow as leaders who can build a conflict-free society.
Civil society-led Saemaul Undong(New Village Movement) with youth and children
Sri Lanka, having endured a civil war from 1983 to 2009, understands the tragedies of conflict, discrimination, and division more than most nations. In 2004, the Indian Ocean tsunami claimed tens of thousands of lives, and many citizens who have lost their homes and livelihoods due to numerous natural disasters continue to struggle due to recurring natural disasters.
Over its 25 years of activity, EDWF has reached out to those in need, assisting more than 100,000 people. It has particularly focused on disaster recovery projects, supporting children and youth who suffered physically and mentally from natural calamities. EDWF believes that the younger generation is the key to overcoming national crises and becoming leaders of tomorrow.
The vision of IPYG—that youth must be the agents of peace—deeply resonates with EDWF’s mission. This shared vision has forged a strong partnership between the two organizations. Together, they successfully co-hosted civil society-led Saemaul Undong campaigns, and EDWF executives actively participated in the Youth Empowerment Peace Class (YEPC), strengthening their solidarity.
Adolescents and young adults learning Mandela’s spirit of peace in commemoration of Nelson Mandela Day
On Nelson Mandela Day, youth learned Mandela’s spirit of peace through sports campaigns organized together with IPYG. To foster resilience against natural disasters such as typhoons, EDWF also launched a peace tree-planting campaign on Sri Lanka’s Independence Day.
Despite economic hardships and environmental challenges, EDWF has brought positive change through the Youth Empowerment Peace Class (YEPC) and the Youth Engagement & Peacebuilding Working Group (YEPW) programs in collaboration with IPYG, delivering a message of hope and solidarity to youth worldwide. EDWF emphasized,
“In a world where conflicts persist, only youth across the globe can become peace citizens who lead positive change in their communities.” EDWF emphasizes that youth are the key actors of the future generation and advocates for leadership education and peace campaigns so that youth can become the forefront leaders of societal transformation.
The organization declared, “When youth worldwide unite for peace and sustainable development, a safer and more conscious world will truly be realized.”
EDWF President Muhamedu Nawab Mohamed Thusan addressed global youth with the following message:
“There is no peace anywhere in today’s world. To achieve peace, we need youth who genuinely yearn for it. Youth are not just tomorrow’s leaders—they are partners in building today. EDWF will expand youth empowerment programs, environmental education, peacebuilding, and community campaigns to create a more sustainable and inclusive future.”
Regarding cooperation with IPYG, he added,
“Based on this spirit, EDWF proudly joined IPYG and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This agreement will serve as a foundation for further strengthening cooperation for peace, youth leadership, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding. Youth of Sri Lanka and the world, let us overcome conflict and discrimination, and build a culture of peace together. Let us create solutions to overcome the obstacles ahead. Let us extend our hands to those in need. A peaceful future will not simply arrive—it must be built together.”
