Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a global
youth program that helps young people aged 14-24 develop
skills, serve their communities, and participate in
adventurous journeys.
You can join the Award through your school or a registered
Award Unit. If there isn’t one at your school, visit the
nearest National Youth Services Council (NYSC) branch or
contact the National Youth Award Division to register.
The Award has three levels:
- Bronze (for ages 14 and up, 6 months)
- Silver (for ages 15 and up, 12 months)
- Gold (for ages 16 and up, 18 months)
The Award is divided into four main sections:
- Service (volunteering)
- Skills (developing a new skill)
- Physical Recreation (improving physical fitness)
- Adventurous Journey (a challenging outdoor journey)
At the Gold level, participants also complete a Gold Residential Project.
In Sri Lanka, there is a registration fee of 500 Rupees per
Award level. This fee helps cover administrative
costs and access to the Online Record Book.
- Bronze: Minimum 6 months
- Silver: Minimum 12 months
- Gold: Minimum 18 months
Each level involves regular activities in the four sections over the specified period.
The Gold Residential Project is a 5-day, 4-night experience
where participants live and work with new people in an
unfamiliar environment. It helps develop teamwork and
leadership skills and can include activities like
environmental projects or leadership camps.
Yes, participants have the freedom to choose activities that
align with their interests for each section, as long as they
meet the requirements for that section.
Yes, participants are supported by an Award Leader who helps
guide them through their Award journey. For specific
activities like the Adventurous Journey, you will also need
an Assessor.
The Online Record Book is a digital platform where
participants can log their progress, track their activities,
and submit evidence for each section of the Award.
Absolutely! The Award is designed to be inclusive.
Participants with disabilities can work with their Award
Leader to adjust activities and ensure the program meets
their needs.
If you face challenges completing the Award within the
timeframe, you can work with your Award Leader to extend
your time or adjust your activities. Flexibility is allowed
to ensure participants can finish at their own pace.
The Adventurous Journey encourages participants to develop
teamwork, leadership, and self-reliance while completing a
challenging journey in the outdoors. It involves planning,
preparing, and working towards a shared goal.
To achieve the Gold Award, participants must complete all
four sections (Service, Skills, Physical Recreation, and
Adventurous Journey) plus the Gold Residential Project. Each
section requires dedication and a clear commitment to
personal growth.
You can reach the National Youth Award Division of the
National Youth Services Council in Sri Lanka via email at awardlanka@gmail.com
or by phone at +94 112 856
563. Additionally, you can visit the nearest NYSC
branch for assistance.
Still have questions? Contact us at awardlanka@gmail.com or call +94 112 856 563 for more information.