Blue Umbrella Day 2025: Empowering Voices to Prevent Violence Against Boys
The Gender Equity and Equality Unit of the Faculty of Criminal Justice, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, successfully conducted the Blue Umbrella Day Capacity Building Program 2025 on 28th April 2025 at the FGS Auditorium. The event was held under the powerful and timely theme:
“Preventing Violence Against Boys”
This capacity building program was part of the global Blue Umbrella Day campaign, which seeks to raise awareness about sexual violence against boys — a topic that remains widely under-discussed due to cultural taboos, stigma, and lack of awareness.
The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including academics, students, professionals, and advocates in the field of criminal justice and human rights. Through insightful presentations, interactive sessions, and open discussions, attendees were encouraged to challenge stereotypes, examine legal and social responses, and explore strategies for safeguarding boys from abuse and exploitation.
Notable speakers from academic and professional backgrounds shared evidence-based insights and practical approaches for child protection. The sessions also emphasized the importance of education, institutional support, and policy advocacy in creating safe environments for all children, especially boys who are often overlooked in child protection discourse.
The program highlighted the university’s commitment to promoting gender equity, inclusivity, and social responsibility, aligning with national and international efforts to address violence against children in all its forms.
A Step Toward Change
By addressing this sensitive yet crucial issue, the Gender Equity and Equality Unit has taken an important step in fostering dialogue, educating future professionals, and contributing to a broader movement for justice and protection.
The event concluded with a strong call to action: break the silence, build awareness, and stand up for every child’s right to safety and dignity.
#BlueUmbrellaDay #PreventViolence #GenderEquality #KDU #FacultyOfCriminalJustice
