The conclusion of the ENGAGE program 2024 was held on Thursday, 21^st of March 2024, at the K14 Board Room of the Faculty of Humanities, University of Kelaniya.

The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) collaborated with the USAID and the Inclusivity Centre of the university to conduct a leadership program, “Engaging New Government for Accessible Governance and Education” (ENGAGE), for the undergraduates with disabilities of the University of Kelaniya. The program was implemented in ten days in January and February of 2024, and it consisted of 8 modules, 2 site visits, and action projects. This concluding gathering was organized to recognize the cooperation of IFES, the university, and other stakeholders in conducting the ENGAGE course for undergraduates with disabilities and to appreciate the undergraduates who completed the ENGAGE course and who are working forward for the betterment of disabled students.

Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya graced the event as the chief guest. Dr. Sudath Senarath, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Ms. Silja Paasilinna, Country Director - International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), some of the Advisory Board members of the Inclusivity Centre, Heads of some Departments of the Faculty of Humanities, and some representatives of the IFES were among the other guests.

The event started with welcome remarks and an overview of the ENGAGE 2024 program by Senior Lecturer Hasara Hirimuthugoda, Director of the Inclusivity Center. Next, Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, and Ms. Silja Paasilinna, Country Director - IFES addressed the gathering and appreciated the attempts to foster inclusive involvement. A video with photographs displayed the memories of the ENGAGE 2024 program and its culmination held on March 12 at the Galadari Hotel. Later, three students presented their action projects, which were implemented in the post-phase of the ENGAGE course. The event was concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Isuru Rathnayake, a Visiting Lecturer of the university and who was also a facilitator of the ENGAGE 2024 program.

Student participants, volunteers who joined the ENGAGE 2024 program, and some other students were present at the gathering.