A successful three-day training program titled "Ensuring the Continuity of Local Government Bodies in the Absence of Elected Representatives amidst Current National Circumstances" was carried out for the local authorities of the Western province. This program took place from August 11th to August 13th, 2023, at the Sri Lanka Institute of Local Governance.

A total of 45 participants, including the Commissioner of Local Government, Assistant Commissioners of Local Government from the Western province, Municipal Commissioners, and Secretaries of local authorities, actively engaged in the program. A noteworthy lineup of speakers, including Ms. Maheshika Kodippili Arachchi, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Provincial Councils and Local Government, Mr. Dammika Muthugala, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, and accomplished educators such as Professor Shirantha Heenkenda, Professor Suranga De Silva, Mr. Premasiri Witharana, Dr. Premasiri Gamage, Mrs. Gayani Premathilake, and Mr. Indika Dayarathne, led enlightening lectures.

The training program comprehensively covered various crucial topics, including Local Government administrative procedures, Local Government Financial Management, Local Government Law, Project proposal writing, Research methodology, income generation, and Social Inclusion. These subjects were thoughtfully selected to empower participants with the necessary skills and insights to ensure the seamless operation of Local Government Bodies, even when elected representatives are absent, and considering the prevailing national context.

Honorable State Minister Janaka Wakkubura was also in attendance as the chief guest.

Initiated by Dr. Suratissa Dissanayake, Director/CEO of the Sri Lanka Institute of Local Governance, this program received financial support from the One Text Initiative (OTI). This collaboration underscored the collective efforts to enhance local governance practices and ensure a brighter future for the region.