International Events

“WORLD DOWN SYNDROME CONGRESS IN BRISBANE AUSTRALIA”

Dr.K.G Dayaratne – Director (JRCFDS), represented the “Jinendhi Resource Centre for Down syndrome, and our country Sri Lanka.

9th of July Dr. Dayaratne addressed the congress and was at the headtable.
75 Countries and many DS organisations have joined the 4 day great event.
(9th to 12th July 2024)

Dr. Dayarathna – Report in Brief

I represented Sri Lanka for the 15th World Down Syndrome congress in Brisbane Australia from 9th to 12th July 2024. I delivered an oral presentation ‘leveraging Sri Lankas Robust health system for enhanced and sustainable care for individuals with Down syndrome “on health day. I was lucky to be a member of headtable for the panel discussion in health day.

Our poster presentation displayed during the entire period of congress and got the special attention of most of participants. We had a fruitful bilateral discussion with officials from Down Syndrome international organization.

Congress covered wide range of topics including health, education, employment and inclusion. It was a great opportunity to meet leading international experts, advicates and families in relation to Down syndrome. Congress creates great opportunity to experience Australian unique environment, music and culture. Congress came to an end with expectation of 16th congress in Argentina 2027.

🇱🇰 Sri Lanka Shines at the Asia Pacific Down Syndrome Games 2026!

Miss Jinendhi Galgamuwa and Master Menula Sandiv Koralegedara, representing JRCFDS Sri Lanka, made the nation proud at the First Asia Pacific Down Syndrome Federation International Games, held on 29th January 2026 at the International Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Chennai, India.

Jinendhi won 2nd place in the 100-meter walk event, securing an impressive Silver Medal 🥈 along with a certificate — marking a historic first achievement for Sri Lanka in this category at a global-level international event for children with special needs.
A proud former student of Seetha Devi Balika Maha Vidyalaya, Kandy, Jinendhi is the youngest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Gamini Galgamuwa.

Master Menula also participated in two events — the 25-meter run and the softball throw — and successfully received participation certificates at this prestigious event. He is the youngest son of Dr. K. Dayaratne and Mrs. Dayaratne from Matale.
This landmark event brought together 198 young athletes with Down syndrome from 10 countries: Mongolia, Vietnam, Bhutan, Taiwan, Sri Lanka, Japan, Nepal, Singapore, Myanmar, and India — celebrating courage, inclusion, and international friendship.

Jinendhi and Menula’s achievements and participation in these international Games truly inspire the nation 💙