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As Sri Lanka continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities of sustainable development, young people remain at the heart of building a more inclusive, resilient and sustainable future. In this spirit, The Road to Rights is set to host the National SDGs & Youth Leadership Summit 2026 on 15 August 2026, from 10.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. at the Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute, Colombo.
Organised under the G17 Global Fellowship Programme, the Summit brings together young leaders, university students, professionals, entrepreneurs, educators and changemakers to explore how youth can translate the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into meaningful action. The G17 programme seeks to empower university undergraduates through capacity building, leadership, policy advocacy and action, equipping them to become effective agents of sustainable development.
The Summit aims to create a platform where young people can learn, connect, exchange ideas and be inspired to take action on SDGs. It will explore the role of youth leadership in addressing contemporary challenges while highlighting the importance of future-ready skills, innovation, collaboration and social impact.
The event will commence with an Opening Ceremony, featuring Dr Patrick McNamara, Executive Director of the United States-Sri Lanka Fulbright Commission, as Chief Guest. The ceremony will also feature Prof. Indika Mahesh Karunathilake, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo, as the Guest of Honour.
A key highlight of the Summit will be a Panel Discussion on “Future 2030: AI, Climate, and the Future Workforce – Leading through Global Transformation”, bringing together distinguished voices to explore how artificial intelligence, climate change, and the evolving workforce are shaping the future. The discussion will examine the opportunities and challenges these global transformations present for young people, while highlighting the skills and leadership needed to navigate an increasingly changing world. The panel will feature Dr. Patrick McNamara, Prof. Erandathie Lokupitiya, Ms. Lonali Rodrigo and Mr. Nikin Matharaarachchi, creating a space for meaningful dialogue on technology, sustainability and the future of work.
The Leaders’ Talk Series will then spotlight inspiring young founders who have transformed ideas into ventures and initiatives, offering participants practical insights into leadership, entrepreneurship, resilience and creating impact.
Another key feature will be the Future Skills Spotlight Session, designed to enhance young people’s knowledge and understanding of the skills increasingly demanded across emerging industries. The session will explore evolving industry expectations and equip participants with insights into the competencies, adaptability and capabilities needed to navigate changing career landscapes and succeed in the future workforce.
The Summit will conclude with the National SDG Awards Ceremony, recognising outstanding contributions by G17 Ambassadors, University Coordinators and impactful organisations working towards the SDGs.
As Ashan Perera, Founder of The Road to Rights, notes
“The future of sustainable development depends not only on the goals we set, but on the young people we build to turn those goals into action.”
With the support of its valued partners: Quadrangle Magazine, Thuru, Methuli Premium, BeSpice, Studio N&K and AIESEC, the National SDGs & Youth Leadership Summit 2026 seeks to strengthen Sri Lanka’s youth movement for sustainable development and inspire a generation ready to lead, innovate and create lasting impact.
