Frequently Asked Questions about The Centenary Movement
Who does The Centenary Academy Movement accept funding from?
The Movement does not accept funding from foreign governments, neither does it accept donations from political parties, current or former politicians.
What are funds received through donations used for?
Donations received will be used for the running of The Centenary Academy, which includes sponsorship of the students, facilitating of lectures, reimbursements of interpreters, translators, resources persons and full time staff.
Are members of the Board paid a salary of remuneration or any sort of compensation?
No, Board members are not paid, and are not entitled to payment by law, as The Centenary Movement is a company limited by guarantee.
Are finances of The Centenary Movement audited?
Yes, our financial year ends 31st March and our finances are audited by KPMG. The audits will be public on our website. Additionally, the finance team will share a financial report every quarter.
Who may join The Centenary Academy?
Every year, a minimum of 50 individuals are selected from a rigorous application process. Each cohort has one man and one woman from every district of the country. Anyone may apply to the academy.
Is The Centenary Academy affiliated with with any political party?
No, the Movement is non-partisan and has no affiliation or affinity with any political party , any politician or party ethos.
What is the objective of The Centenary Movement?
The objective of the Movement is to educate, equip and platform young people who aspire to a career in politics and / or who have an interest in citizen leadership. Our goal for Sri Lanka’s centenary year is to have leaders who have clarity of vision, competent, compassionate and strong character .
How will The Centenary Movement achieve these objectives?
By the creation of The Centenary Academy, and its quality curriculum on key political and socio-economic themes that provides an effective, results-driven training, mentorship, encouragement and a platform for a new generation of leaders. We also seek to educate and create awareness among the masses, to ensure policy, character and competence-driven voting. We also encourage citizens to hold their leaders accountable and serve as active citizens in our democracy.
What additional support are students of the academy given?
High performing students of the academy will also be given opportunities to join our policy committees. They will also join international research and learning tours to enhance their worldview and competence. We will also provide support to pursue trilingual capabilities for each student.
Our students will be encouraged to run for public office and rise up to positions of influence in the public sector. We will provide mentorship, networks and resources and required opportunities to realize their noble aspirations. We will also ensure each student and member of the Centenary Academy, who run for office or serve in the public sector will be held accountable each year. They will be expected to live by the Centenary Movement Pledge and our code of ethics. They will also be expected to publicly declare their assets and reveal their campaign finances.
What is the syllabus / curriculum that is taught to the students of The Centenary Academy?
This program is 52 weeks long, and includes 700 hours of theory, practice, communal and experiential learning. The six policy areas the students receive learning on are politics and governance, environment, diversity and inclusion, health and wellbeing and economic reform. Each lecture is facilitated in all three languages, by academics and those in practice, who are at the cutting edge of their respective fields. Each of these policy components are followed by a practical assignment and engagement with the masses in each student’s polling division. Finally, the curriculum also focuses on residential training, where students are given opportunities to hone practical skills.
How can I get involved in The Centenary Movement?
You can volunteer with The Centenary Movement through one of the policy groups, or join other teams such as PR, Finance or Legal. You can contribute in terms of subject knowledge or practical support, or make a donation to the Movement too.
How can I get in touch with The Centenary Movement?
You can email us on one@100.lk or engage with us on our Facebook, Instagram or Linkedin.
What are the preferred languages of communication at The Centenary Movement?
All communication, lectures, notices and correspondence is made in Tamil, Sinhala and English.
When will the next batch of students be chosen?
The application process for the second batch of students will begin in December 2021. Details will be posted on our website (www.100.lk) and our social media platforms.
Orientation and induction of the new cohort will take place on the 4th of February 2022.
