Educates and empowers students of Ananda College Colombo on food security and climate change literacy through ‘Seeds of Security’ initiative
March 13, 2024: Agriculture-rich diversified conglomerate CIC Holdings PLC (CSE: CIC) announced a pioneering partnership with Planet Green Force (PGF) and UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) to foster the development of Sri Lanka’s future green leaders. The partnership educates and empowers students on crucial issues such as food security, combatting global warming, and promoting sustainable green initiatives. It further encourages the adoption of UNESCO Green Academies’ pillars of water security, waste management, clean energy, and biomass production while embracing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
The inaugural event of this initiative took place recently at Ananda College Colombo, where CIC actively participated in the ‘Seeds of Security’ program. Developed as part of the Planet Green Force concept, this program focuses on imparting essential knowledge and skills to students, preparing them to address the challenges of food security and combating climate change in an ever-changing world. The event was graced by CIC Holdings Group Chief Executive Officer Aroshan Seresinhe, Planet Green Force Founder Harith Wickrema, Ananda College Colombo Principal DMLP Dissanayake, senior executives of CIC Holdings, teachers and students.
‘Seeds of Security’ connects school children to global environmental issues through community-level local engagement, igniting passion and inspiring the next generation of green ambassadors. It provides an example of a circular, self-sustaining program that teaches waste reduction while cultivating food security, combating hunger, and encouraging good nutrition.
Group CEO Aroshan Seresinhe commented on this initiative: “Our strategic collaboration underscores CIC’s belief in the profound interconnection between agriculture, environmental health, and societal well-being. By aligning with PGF and UNESCO, we are strategically positioning to be at the forefront of innovative and impactful projects that address global challenges like tackling food security and promoting sustainable green initiatives. This commitment extends beyond the immediate scope of our business operations, reflecting a holistic approach that encompasses the broader aspects of sustainability and ethical business practices.”
Planet Green Force Founder Harith Wickrema said, “We thank CIC Holdings for extending their leadership in spearheading the pilot project. We recognise that collaboration with like-minded entities such as CIC amplifies the impact of individual efforts. By joining forces, PGF is leveraging a collective wealth of knowledge, expertise, and resources from CIC to address complex issues that transcend organisational boundaries.”
During the event, CIC handed over 500 grow bags and nutrient vegetable seeds to the students and conducted a session to educate students on how food security helps to build a stable economy. CIC plans to hand over 2,500 grow bags, assisting the students in learning how to grow, compost, and develop nutritious food items on the school premises and in their home gardens.
