About NRSYD 2026
About the Symposium
The National Research Symposium on Youth Development (NRSYD 2026) is a premier academic event bringing together researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and youth advocates to explore innovative approaches to youth development in Sri Lanka and beyond.
This symposium serves as a platform for sharing cutting-edge research, best practices, and evidence-based interventions that empower young people to become active agents of social transformation.
The symposium will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, paper presentations, and poster sessions covering diverse aspects of youth development.
Symposium Theme
"Young People as Right Holders and Change-Makers: Asset-based Pathways for Social Transformation"
This theme emphasizes the importance of recognizing young people not as passive recipients of services, but as active right holders and change-makers in society.
Context and Significance
Sri Lanka's youth population represents a significant demographic dividend, yet young people face numerous challenges including limited employment opportunities, educational disparities, mental health concerns, and barriers to meaningful participation in decision-making processes.
The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated these challenges, disrupting education, employment, and social connections for millions of young people. At the same time, youth have demonstrated remarkable resilience, innovation, and leadership.
NRSYD 2026 recognizes the urgent need for evidence-based policies and programs that support youth development in this changing landscape.
The symposium aligns with national development priorities and international frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4, 8, and 10).
Key Objectives
- Showcase innovative research and evidence-based practices in youth development
- Foster dialogue between researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and youth
- Promote asset-based approaches that recognize youth as change-makers
- Identify pathways for social transformation through youth empowerment
- Build networks and collaborations for sustained impact in youth development