Soba Seya 2026 is a special Arts and Photography Exhibition and Competition organized to celebrate World Ocean Day 2026. The event is jointly organized by the Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (CESSD) of the Open University of Sri Lanka and the Marine Environment Protection Authority in collaboration with the Young Zoologists’ Association of Sri Lanka.
The exhibition aims to raise public awareness on the importance of ocean conservation through creative expression. Under the theme “The Voice of the Ocean: Arts for Biodiversity and a Pollution-Free Ocean,” the event invites participants to express their perspectives on protecting marine ecosystems and promoting sustainable ocean practices.
Soba Seya 2026 features two main competition tracks: Marine Biodiversity and Marine Pollution. Through artistic works and photography, participants will highlight the beauty, diversity, and vulnerability of marine life while drawing attention to the growing threats of ocean pollution. The event provides a platform for artists, photographers, students, and environmental enthusiasts to use creativity as a powerful medium to advocate for healthy oceans and inspire collective action for marine conservation.