The Sri Lankan regions of Gampaha, Jaffna, and Nuwara Eliya offer many diverse and popular tourist attractions, including unique cultural activities, lush landscapes, tea plantations, and more. But a considerable knowledge gap in the local community undermines the understanding of the intrinsic value and vulnerability of the ecosystems that form the backbone of these regions. Residents, including children and young people, need the knowledge and tools to understand, appreciate and effectively safeguard their immediate environment.

The TUI Junior Academy Sri Lanka empowers local young people with a deep sense of responsibility and active participation in safeguarding the natural heritage of their region. The project increases access to environmental education for at least 600 children and young people. It combines e-learning with hands-on learning experiences and puts in place an eco-centric curriculum in 36 schools across the three regions. This promotes a holistic and immersive learning experience that equips students with the knowledge and skills to address critical environmental challenges.  Children participate in eco-clubs and environmental campaigns that tackle relevant issues, such as the reduction of meat consumption. Activities also include environmental workshops, local clean-ups and restoration projects that empower young people to lead by example and promote sustainable living practices, environmental awareness and action within the community.  

The programme extends to adults, educators and parents by offering webinars, networking events and online courses on environmental education. In addition, the programme sets up 100 home gardens so that adults can learn about and practice sustainable food production in their own homes, nurture a deeper connection with nature and gain valuable skills in gardening and self-sufficiency.