The Centre for Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development (CESSD) of the Open University of Sri Lanka, in collaboration with AIT Extension of the Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand, successfully organized an Exposure Visit Programme on the “Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Sector in Sri Lanka.” This programme was specifically designed for senior officials from the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF), an apex development organization established by the Government of Bangladesh. The programme took place from June 30 to July 9, 2024, across various locations including Colombo, Kandy, Dambulla, and Polonnaruwa.

The primary objective of the programme was to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the WASH sector in Sri Lanka, integrating both modern practices and historical perspectives. Furthermore, it facilitated a platform for the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and best practices among experts and peers from different organizations within the WASH sector. The programme was meticulously designed to empower Bangladeshi participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to implement sustainable and cost-effective WASH solutions in their communities. By drawing on Sri Lanka’s experiences, participants were better equipped to address the WASH challenges in Bangladesh, thereby contributing to improved public health and environmental sustainability.