As part of the Exposure Visit Programme on “Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Sector in Sri Lanka,” a series of field visits were organized across key locations, including Colombo, Kandy, Dambulla, and Polonnaruwa. The programme took place from July 03 to July 6, 2024. These visits provided participants with valuable hands-on learning experiences, allowing them to observe and engage with real-world WASH initiatives implemented in different regions. Through on-site discussions, participants gained practical insights into sustainable water management, sanitation infrastructure, and hygiene promotion practices in Sri Lanka. The field component complemented the expert-led sessions, offering participants an opportunity to connect theory with practice and to explore innovative approaches that support community well-being and environmental sustainability.
- Site Visits to Irrigation Structures: Field visit to the Elahera diversion site, the Elahera inter-basin canal, the Diyabeduma diversion site, the Giritale tank, Parakrama Samudraya, and the Minneriya tank, showcasing ancient water management systems.
- Ancient Cultural Sites: Dambulla Cave Temple, the Kandy Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Polonnaruwa Ancient City Complex, and Ancient Technology Museum provided participants with insights into Sri Lanka's historical and cultural heritage.
- Exploration of Sigiriya: This visit offered insights into Sri Lanka’s historical expertise in water conservation and management.
- Field Visits to Housing Projects, Convenience Centres, Various Schools, and community-based Water Supply projects: These field visits allowed participants to gain hands-on experience in areas such as Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM), school hygiene and sanitation, sanitation facilities for disabled persons, and sanitation and hygiene for low-income communities.
- City Tours: The city tours enriched the programme by allowing participants to explore Sri Lanka’s vibrant urban landscapes. In addition to key cultural landmarks and historical sites, participants experienced local markets and shopping areas, gaining insight into the daily life and commercial activities of Sri Lankan cities.
- Water and Wastewater Treatment Plants: Participants observed operational processes and advanced treatment technologies.
