The third phase of the Gammadda Rebuild Programme was launched in Nuwara Eliya on Thursday, marking a new step in the recovery effort that has followed last November’s Cyclone Ditwah.
The launch ceremony was held at the Nuwara Eliya Technical College and received blessings from the Mahanayake Theros of the Asgiriya and Malwathu Chapters of the Siam Sect. District Secretary Tushari Tennakoon presided over the event.
Phase 3 focuses on rebuilding livelihoods rather than physical structures. Specialised vocational training is being delivered for masons, carpenters, electricians, metal fabricators, plumbers and garment designers drawn from communities that were affected by the cyclone. Participants are scheduled to receive certificates and a tool kit at a separate ceremony the following day, allowing them to return to paid work as the recovery continues.
The phase is implemented as a joint effort by the National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority (NAITA), the Department of Technical Education and Training and the Gammadda Movement.
Australian philanthropy organisation Minderoo Foundation has committed AU$ 1 million to the Gammadda Movement for life-saving relief and early recovery work in cyclone-affected areas, the broadcaster confirmed at the launch.
Earlier phases of the programme have included Army Engineer-built interim shelters for around 1,000 families and the rollout of new housing and religious-site restoration in the worst-hit districts.
