Our History
The Institute for Development of Community Strengths (Prajashakthi Sanwardana Ayathanaya) was established in 1991 due to political, social, and economic tension in the southern region of Sri Lanka from 1987 to 1989. In this time, most of the governmental, non-governmental, and community-based organizations, along with the private sector, ceased much of their operations. Identifying a great need for an independent organization that operates regardless of social stratifications, a small group of educated and experienced professionals from both the government and NGO sectors founded INDECOS. Our founding members had valuable experience in various areas including community development and social welfare, as well as a background in social, economic, and cultural issues related to the governmental development programs.
During our nearly 33 years, INDECOS has grown to become a key stakeholder in the region. INDECOS now operates in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka covering Galle, Matara and Hambantota districts. We are a community development and training-based organization with various unique features. Our community development work includes community members in the design, implementation, management, and follow-up of programs. Projects in education and awareness-building are organized with a participatory approach involving group activities and discussions.
INDECOS aims to be of high quality, punctual, results-based, and transparent and operate as a model organization. INDECOS continually supports other NGOs and CBOs to improve their capacities through networks and trainings. We operate in accordance with national policies and the functioning of government provisions. Since its inception, INDECOS has implemented more than 100 projects with the support of the World Bank, UN agencies (e.g., UNDP, ILO, UNESCO, UNICEF, UNAIDS), the World University Service of Canada (WUSC), the Asia Foundation, Helping Hands of Sweden, the High Commission of Canada, the British High Commission, the Australian High Commission, and others to uplift the standards of living among unprivileged communities. Additionally, we have undertaken six government projects.
Where We Are Located
Institute for Development of Community Strengths 