A series of training workshops were held by CWDR over a period of six months in the Kilinochchi and Mullaithivu districts. In total 13 such workshops were held in this period. Each of the workshop was attended by about 40 men and women.

The workshops were held in the following villages: Santhapuram, Ramanathapuram, Rathnapuram, Puthukkadu, Malayalapuram, Ambalkulam, Puthumurippu, Selvanagar, Maniyamkulam, Vinayarkudiyiruppu, Sampukulam, Jeyapuram, Mulankavil, Iranaimanagar, and Vaddakachchi.

The training workshop included training in gender issues which highlighted the problems and damages of domestic violence and benefits to the family of couples working as a team of equal partners. This part of the workshop was conducted by a CWDR staff specifically trained for this purpose.

A part of the workshop focused on giving awareness about the laws concerning women. Many women remain unaware of the rights and protection awarded to them by the law. This part of the workshop raised the awareness of the participants about how they can use the law to gain their rights.

Also included in the workshop was leadership training. The aim was to give women confidence to take leadership role within their families. Also these skills will facilitate women to lead projects that could benefit their village.

Training was also given on raising livestock and home vegetable growing which could improve the family finances of the women. This part of the workshop was conducted by officers from the Agriculture Department and the local veterinarian doctor.

Members of many village based organizations such as the Rural Development Board, Fishermen’s Union, and Savings Committee also took part and benefited from this workshop.

As part of the workshop the needs of these backward villages were surveyed and CWDR is planning projects to alleviate some of the needs.