The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is a global youth development program that empowers young people aged 13-24 to discover their potential and make a positive impact. Operating in over 130 countries, the Award encourages participants to build skills, increase fitness, develop a sense of adventure, and give back through volunteering. In Sri Lanka, the Award has been shaping young lives for over 40 years under the National Youth Services Council, helping more than 40,000 participants grow through this transformative journey.

A Framework for Personal Growth.

The Award’s flexible structure allows participants to tailor their experience. The four key sections—Voluntary Service, Skills, Physical Recreation, and Adventurous Journey—help participants grow in confidence, develop leadership skills, and embrace new challenges.

Each section promotes personal development:

• - Voluntary Service fosters community engagement.
• - Skills nurture individual talents.
• - Physical Recreation boosts health and fitness.
• - Adventurous Journey encourages teamwork and exploration..

The Award in Sri Lanka

Introduced in the early 1980s, The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award in Sri Lanka has empowered youth across the country. The program is tailored to fit the local cultural context, helping young people gain confidence, develop skills, and contribute to their communities.

How the Award Works

The Award is available at three levels:

• - Bronze: A 6-month challenge for beginners aged 14 and above.
• - Silver: A 12-month journey for those aged 15 and above.
• - Gold: An 18-month challenge for those aged 16 and above, including the Gold Residential Project, where participants live and work with new people in a shared project.

At each level, participants set goals and work toward them with the support of Award Leaders and volunteers.

Gold Residential Project

As part of the Gold Award, participants must complete a Gold Residential Project, a 5-day experience where they live and work with others in an unfamiliar setting. This helps develop teamwork, leadership, and personal growth.

Who Can Participate?

The Award is open to all young people aged 14-24. It’s designed to be inclusive, offering opportunities regardless of background or ability, and can be completed through schools or independent groups.

A Global Movement

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award equips young people with the skills to thrive in today’s world. By building resilience, adaptability, and leadership, the Award shapes future leaders who are prepared to tackle life’s challenges.

Join the Award Today

Set your own goals, embark on an adventure, and grow as a leader. Start your Award journey today and become part of a global community dedicated to empowering young people.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award has a measurable, lasting impact on both young people and the world around them. Through personal growth, community service, and environmental awareness, the Award empowers participants to become well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to society.

How the Award Makes a Difference

The impact of the Award is built on a strong foundation of personal development and community engagement, achieved through a clear process:

• Inputs: Investment in setting up and delivering the Award, including support from volunteers, mentors, and resources.
• Outputs: The activities participants undertake, such as skill development, community service, physical recreation, and adventurous journeys.
• Outcomes: The immediate effects of these activities, including improved skills, better health, and stronger social connections.
• Impacts: The long-term changes for participants, their communities, and society as a whole.

7 Key Impacts of the Award

• Improved Employability and Earning Potential: Participation enhances life skills like leadership, communication, and problem-solving, improving job prospects and earning potential.
• Improved Physical Health and Fitness: Encourages regular physical activity, fostering healthier, more active lives.
• Enhanced Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing: Promotes mental health through personal challenges, teamwork, and social interaction, reducing stress and increasing self-confidence.
• Increased Engagement with Charitable and Community Causes: Through Voluntary Service, participants contribute to their communities, fostering a lifelong commitment to charity and volunteering.
• Positive Environmental Impact: Adventurous journeys and community projects raise environmental awareness, encouraging sustainable behavior.
• Increased Social Cohesion: The Award brings together young people from diverse backgrounds, fostering inclusion and community cohesion.
• Reduction in Offending: For at-risk youth, the Award offers positive alternatives to negative behaviors, reducing both first-time and repeat offending.

The Theory of Change

• For Individuals: Participants develop resilience, adaptability, and leadership, preparing them for future challenges.
• For Communities: Participants’ service and engagement build stronger, more supportive local communities.
• For Society: The Award fosters a generation of empathetic, skilled, and responsible global citizens, contributing to long-term societal benefits.

Your Impact Begins Here

When you participate in The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, you’re not just changing your life—you’re making a difference in the world around you. Every skill you learn, every service you provide, and every challenge you face contributes to a lasting, positive impact on society.

Start your journey today and make your mark on the world!

At The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Sri Lanka, our dedicated team is committed to empowering young people and guiding them through their Award journey. With a shared passion for youth development, our leadership and supporting organizations work tirelessly to ensure the success of every participant.

National Director

Pasindu Guneratne
Our National Director leads with vision and dedication, ensuring the smooth operation and growth of the Award across Sri Lanka. With years of experience in youth empowerment, Pasindu drives strategic initiatives that inspire young people to reach their full potential through the Award program.

Board of Directors

Our Board of Directors consists of experienced leaders who provide invaluable guidance and oversight to The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award in Sri Lanka. Their diverse expertise in education, community service, and business ensures that the Award continues to thrive and expand its reach.

• Mr. Rashitha Delapola - Director, Training
• Mr. Roshan Jayasooriya - Assistant Director, National Youth Award Division

Partner Organizations

Our success wouldn’t be possible without the support of our partner organizations. These organizations collaborate with us to provide participants with meaningful opportunities for growth, learning, and community service. Together, we are helping shape the future of youth in Sri Lanka.

Our Sponsors

We are proud to have the backing of sponsors who share our mission of empowering youth. Their generous contributions help us expand the reach of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award and offer life-changing experiences to participants across Sri Lanka. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our sponsors for their continued support.

The Voluntary Service section of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is all about giving back to the community. It offers young people the chance to actively contribute to the well-being of others, while also developing valuable personal qualities such as compassion, patience, and leadership. By dedicating time to help others, participants not only make a positive impact on their communities but also grow as responsible and engaged citizens.

Why Voluntary Service Matters

Through this section, participants get the opportunity to volunteer their time and skills to support people, the environment, animals, or the broader community. It allows them to experience firsthand how their efforts can improve the lives of others and make a lasting difference.

Volunteering over an extended period helps participants:

• Learn by Doing: Experience the true impact of their service through hands-on involvement.
• Develop Compassion: Understand the importance of kindness, empathy, and commitment.
• Grow as Leaders: Build confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of responsibility.

Key Benefits of Voluntary Service

Participants in the Voluntary Service section can expect to gain:

• Greater understanding of the challenges others face.
• Improved communication and interpersonal skills.
• Enhanced leadership and teamwork abilities.
• A sense of personal fulfillment and community connection.
• The development of lifelong habits of giving back and community involvement.

Time Requirements

The time commitment for Voluntary Service is the same as the Skills and Physical Recreation sections. On average, participants should spend at least one hour per week volunteering. However, some structured environments, such as being a volunteer youth leader, may involve longer sessions where participants are expected to contribute meaningfully to the entire activity.

For those participating at the Bronze level, or those starting directly at Silver or Gold, they may choose to dedicate extra time to this section to fulfill the overall Award requirements.

Examples of Voluntary Service

There are many ways to contribute through Voluntary Service, such as:

• Assisting at hospitals or care homes.
• Supporting the elderly or people with disabilities.
• Coaching youth sports or leading community events.
• Helping at local charities or non-profits.
• Engaging in environmental conservation projects.

The Physical Recreation section of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award encourages young people to stay active and improve their fitness. It’s designed to help participants build healthy habits, boost physical and mental well-being, and develop teamwork skills while having fun.

Why Physical Recreation is Important

This section promotes the idea that regular physical activity is vital for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Whether it's through sports, dance, or outdoor adventures, participants learn the value of persistence, discipline, and teamwork, all while improving their physical fitness and overall health.

Participating in this section helps participants:

• Stay fit and healthy by engaging in regular exercise.
• Build discipline, resilience, and mental toughness.
• Experience the fun and challenge of physical activities, either solo or in groups.

Key Benefits of the Physical Recreation Section

• Improve their fitness and well-being.
• Develop teamwork and leadership skills by participating in group activities.
• Gain confidence by setting and achieving physical goals.
• Learn the value of commitment and regular practice.

Time Requirements

Participants should commit at least one hour per week to their chosen physical activity. This could be through team sports, individual fitness routines, or recreational activities. Those aiming for Bronze, Silver, or Gold can tailor their involvement to meet the overall time requirements for the Award.

Examples of Physical Recreation Activities

• Playing a team sport like football, basketball, or volleyball.
• Participating in dance classes or practicing martial arts.
• Taking up individual fitness activities like running, swimming, or cycling.
• Engaging in outdoor fitness activities.
• Training for a specific physical challenge or event, such as a marathon.

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Gold Residential Project

The Gold Residential Project aims to expand participants' experiences by living and working with others in a new residential setting. This section gives participants a purposeful, shared experience with people they don’t typically interact with, encouraging teamwork and collaboration while working toward a common goal. The participant’s personal SMART goal should focus on what they will achieve individually or contribute to others or the environment.

Key Outcomes and Benefits

• Meeting new people.
• Experiencing a new environment.
• Building relationships and working as part of a team.
• Taking responsibility and showing initiative.
• Developing communication skills and confidence.
• Learning or enhancing practical skills.
• Enjoying the experience of living and working with others.

Requirements

To complete the Gold Residential Project, participants must engage in a purposeful activity in an unfamiliar setting, away from home or locations where they’ve done previous Award activities. The project must last at least four nights and five consecutive days. In some cases, this can be split over two weekends, as long as the same activity is pursued, and it occurs within 12 months.

The activity may be related to other sections of the Award, such as Skills, but the time spent on those sections does not count towards completing the Residential Project.

Award Flexibilities

In special circumstances, participants may return home to sleep at night or complete part of the project virtually. Flexibility must be approved by the National Award Operator or Foundation.

Assessment Criteria

• Personal standards (e.g., punctuality, commitment).
• Relationships with others in the project.
• Initiative and responsibility.
• Effort and dedication to the activity.

Types of Activities

• Ecology and environmental studies.
• Volunteering for wildlife conservation.
• Residential leadership training.
• Reforestation or biodiversity research.
• Youth camp assistance.
• Cultural exchange programs.
• Restoration of heritage sites.
• Environmental clean-up projects.

For more ideas, participants can explore the Gold Residential Project section of the Foundation’s website. The chosen activity should align with the guiding principles of the Award and be relevant to the participant’s circumstances.

The Adventurous Journey section of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award encourages young people to step outside their comfort zones and embrace the outdoors. This experience fosters teamwork, self-reliance, and exploration, as participants plan, prepare, and complete an adventure in new environments.

Why the Adventurous Journey is Important

This section teaches essential life skills such as problem-solving, leadership, and perseverance. By engaging in activities like hiking, cycling, or camping, participants not only connect with nature but also learn to collaborate effectively within a team.

Journey Requirements

• Bronze: 2 days, 1 night
• Silver: 3 days, 2 nights
• Gold: 4 days, 3 nights

Each journey includes both a physical adventure and a Team Goal, such as a research project or group challenge, defined using SMART criteria.

Group Dynamics

• Teams must have 4-7 members (up to 8 for tandem activities).
• Groups are independent in decision-making.
• Non-Award participants with similar abilities may join.

Training and Practice

• Participants receive training in skills like navigation and risk management.
• Practice Journeys are required at Silver and Gold levels.

Modes of Transport

• Non-motorized transport (walking, cycling, paddling) is required.
• Multiple transport modes are allowed if properly planned and practiced.

Location and Activity

• Journeys occur in varied terrains, with environments offering suitable challenges.
• Teams must spend at least 6 hours per day at Bronze, 7 hours at Silver, and 8 hours at Gold on activities like traveling, working on the Team Goal, and setting up camp.

Supervision and Support

• Trained adults supervise the journey while encouraging team independence.
• Assessors ensure the group meets all goals.

Accommodation and Self-Sufficiency

• Participants stay in tents or simple accommodations and carry their supplies.
• Teams must prepare a cooked meal each day as part of their self-sufficient experience.

The Final Report

Throughout the Qualifying Journey, the group works together to achieve their Team Goal while individuals record personal reflections on their experiences. At the end of the journey, the group is required to present a report to their Adventurous Journey Assessor. The report, which can be delivered in any agreed format, must involve all group members and detail their experiences, as well as how they accomplished their Team Goal. If the Assessor is unavailable to review the report, the Adventurous Journey Supervisor may step in to fulfill this role.

Examples of Adventurous Journey Activities

• Hiking or trekking through mountain ranges or forests.
• Cycling through remote trails or scenic landscapes.
• Canoeing or kayaking along rivers or lakes.
• Completing an expedition in a challenging outdoor environment.
• Camping in Natural Areas

For more details, please refer to the Award Leaders' Handbook or visit awardcommunity.org (for authorized volunteers only).

The Skills section of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award encourages young people to explore and develop their personal interests, whether that’s improving an existing skill or trying something completely new. It’s all about gaining confidence, discovering new talents, and refining abilities that can benefit you in your personal life and future career.

Why the Skills Section is Important

The Skills section provides a chance for participants to nurture a passion, dive into a creative or intellectually challenging hobby, or pick up a new vocational skill. By dedicating time and effort to learning, participants not only experience personal growth but also gain valuable skills that can enhance their employability and social connections.

Taking part in this section helps participants:

• Build New Skills: Learn something new or refine an existing talent.
• Gain Confidence: Set personal goals and achieve them, boosting self-esteem.
• Improve Practical Skills: Develop abilities that are useful for both personal interests and career paths.

Key Benefits of the Skills Section

• Discover new abilities and talents.
• Increase self-confidence by setting and achieving personal goals.
• Refine time management and planning skills.
• Improve employability by learning vocational skills or practical talents.
• Interact socially with people of different backgrounds and ages, enhancing communication and networking skills.

Time Requirements

The time commitment for the Skills section is the same as the Voluntary Service and Physical Recreation sections. Participants should aim to spend at least one hour per week improving their chosen skill. For those involved in structured environments, such as playing in an orchestra or taking part in a club, the commitment may be greater, and participants are encouraged to contribute meaningfully throughout the entire activity.

Participants at the Bronze level, as well as those directly entering at Silver or Gold, may choose to dedicate extra time to this section to meet the overall requirements of the Award.

Examples of Skills Development

• Learning a musical instrument.
• Developing photography or videography skills.
• Improving culinary or baking abilities.
• Gaining knowledge in coding, programming, or graphic design.
• Building language proficiency through lessons or self-study.
• Practicing artistic skills like painting or sculpting.
• Developing leadership or public speaking skills through courses or clubs.

The Award Leader

The Award Leader is the key person who works directly with participants in The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.

Award Leaders help young people choose activities, set goals, and track their progress as they work through the program. They also organize and manage different parts of the Award program, ensuring everything runs smoothly. Their role is to inspire and motivate participants, helping them work together and stay focused on their goals.

Main Responsibilities:

• Guide Participants: Help young people select activities, set personal goals, and monitor their progress.
• Organize the Program: Manage the Award program at your school or organization.
• Inspire and Motivate: Encourage participants to stay motivated and work as a team.

Skills & Experience Needed:

• Know the rules and goals of the Award program.
• Be good at communicating with both adults and young people.
• Have experience working with young people in education or mentoring.
• Be able to plan and manage activities.
• Comfortable using computers and online tools like the Online Record Book (ORB).

Personal Qualities:

• Honest and respected by others.
• Committed to high standards and the values of the Award.
• Self-motivated, flexible, and able to build strong relationships.

Award Leaders play a vital role in helping young people succeed in their Award journey, guiding them every step of the way.

The Participant

The Participant is the heart of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. As a participant, you will take part in activities that challenge you, help you grow, and build important life skills. You'll choose activities that fit your interests and set personal goals for each section of the Award: Voluntary Service, Physical Recreation, Skills, and Adventurous Journey.

Main Responsibilities:

• Choose Your Activities: Pick activities that interest you in each Award section.
• Set Goals: Create personal goals that challenge you and help you grow.
• Track Your Progress: Keep a record of your achievements using journal sheets or the Online Record Book (ORB).
• Complete the Journey: Commit to finishing each part of the Award to achieve your Bronze, Silver, or Gold level.

Skills & Benefits:

• Learn new skills and improve old ones.
• Build confidence, teamwork, and leadership abilities.
• Give back to your community through volunteering.
• Experience adventure, both locally and internationally.

By taking part in the Award, you’ll not only have fun but also gain valuable experiences that will help you in school, work, and life.

The Assessor

The Assessor plays an important role in helping participants succeed in The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. Assessors are responsible for reviewing the progress of participants and making sure they complete their activities according to the Award's standards.

Main Responsibilities:

• Evaluate Progress: Review participants’ achievements in their chosen activities.
• Give Feedback: Provide helpful advice and encouragement to participants.
• Verify Completion: Ensure participants meet the Award requirements before moving on to the next level.
• Support Development: Help participants grow by guiding them to reach their full potential.

Skills & Qualities Needed:

• Understanding of the Award’s sections and requirements.
• Ability to give clear, constructive feedback.
• Experience working with young people or mentoring.
• Committed to helping participants succeed and meet their goals.

As an Assessor, you play a vital role in motivating and guiding participants as they work towards achieving their Award.

The Adventurous Journey (AJ) Supervisor & Assessor

The Adventurous Journey (AJ) Supervisor & Assessor ensures that participants safely and successfully complete their Adventurous Journey as part of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. This role involves helping participants plan, prepare for, and carry out their journey while ensuring they follow the correct guidelines.

Main Responsibilities:

• Supervise the Journey: Make sure participants are prepared and safe during their journey.
• Assess Skills: Evaluate how well participants plan, navigate, and complete their Adventurous Journey.
• Provide Guidance: Offer support and advice as participants take on challenges during the journey.
• Ensure Safety: Prioritize the safety of participants by enforcing safety rules and outdoor guidelines.

Skills & Qualities Needed:

• Experience in outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or navigating.
• Understanding of safety protocols and journey planning.
• Ability to lead and inspire participants during challenging activities.
• Commitment to ensuring a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for all participants.

As an AJ Supervisor & Assessor, you guide participants through one of the most exciting parts of the Award, helping them push their limits, grow as individuals, and learn important outdoor skills.