The Deshashthra Girls School in Kalutara recently reached out to the University of Moratuwa for assistance in their fashion design competition, which forms a part of their emotional skill development project. The request, initiated through the Vice-Chancellor, was directed to the Department of Textiles and Apparel Engineering, and Dr Prabod Munasinghe and Mrs Prathibhani Manthrirathne, senior lecturers in the Department responded to the request by the Head of Department to provide the required service.
Dr. Prabod Munasinghe coordinated the programme from the University end. Prior to the competition, Dr. Prabod and Ms. Prathibhani Manthrirathne conducted an online session to brief the participants and provide innovative ideas for designing using ocean and related waste materials. This was particularly relevant as the school is located near the beach. Over 20 girls participated in the online session and were inspired to create their own designs.
The competition took place on April 10th at the school, with Dr. Prabod participating as a judge. The girls showcased remarkable fashion designs, each based on different types of waste materials. Buddhima Sanuri, a grade 10 student, emerged as the competition winner with her design crafted from discarded fishing nets and sacks.
It was evident that the school faces financial challenges, yet despite this, the girls demonstrated exceptional talent. The Department of Textiles and Apparel Engineering at the University of Moratuwa hopes to work closely with the school to nurture these skills and elevate them to greater heights.
This collaboration between the University and Deshashthra Girls School highlights the importance of supporting and empowering young talent, regardless of their backgrounds or financial circumstances. It exemplifies the University's commitment to community engagement and fostering creativity and innovation among the youth.
