In southwestern Sri Lanka, in the small town of Baddegama, we run a project together with our partner organization AIDC. Daniel Waldén, who works at NBV Malmö, has recently visited the project and we have had the opportunity to interview him about his impressions.
Hi Daniel! What made you visit the project in Baddegama?
– I heard about IOGT-NTO's operations in Sri Lanka through my work and became curious. When my family and I planned a trip to Sri Lanka during my parental leave, I felt it was a fantastic opportunity to visit the project on site.
What did you see and experience during your visit?
– Among other things, we were able to participate in a group work session where the participants summarized what the project has meant to them. It was inspiring to hear how it has affected both children and adults in many ways. We also visited their premises, which are housed in a school, and got an insight into how the project has developed. The clearest impression was how knowledge changes lives – the participants have gained an increased understanding of the negative consequences of alcohol and have become more aware of their rights.
Was there anything that surprised you?
– I was really taken by how big an impact the project has had on the entire village. The mothers said that their finances have improved because the men drink less and thus do not spend the family money on alcohol. The cohesion between the women has also been strengthened. The children described how it is now easier for them to talk about difficult things and that they have been given tools to help each other in challenging situations.
What touched you the most?
– It was when the children showed off their calendars, where they mark how they feel every day. They put a sad smiley face when their father has been drinking, which helped them communicate their feelings. It was a simple but powerful method for creating a dialogue within the family.
What will you take home from the visit?
– That change starts with knowledge. It reminded me a lot of the popular education system in Sweden – when people have the opportunity to share experiences and learn together, great things can happen.
What would you like more people in Sweden to know about the project?
– That it doesn't always take much to make a big difference. By creating a platform where people can educate themselves and support each other, both the individual and society at large are strengthened.
Thank you!
