About Us

Rural Development Training and Research Institute (RDTRI), established in 1974, was the primary and leading public institution which applied the participatory development approach in development arena in this country. In 1978, the RDTRI applied the Change Agent Methodology to the development field. Functional Research Methodology was also introduced by RDTRI to the field of development, for the first time in Sri Lanka. The task of applying Social Mobilization Mechanism introduced by this institution for the implementation of major development programmes such as Janasaviya, Samurdhi and Gamaneguma which were based on community participation in this country, was also carried out by this institution.

Ministry of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment
Hon Minister
(Dr.) Upali Pannilage

Ministry of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment
Hon. Deputy Minister
Mr. Wasantha Piyathissa

Ministry of Rural Development, Social Security and Community Empowerment
The Secretary
Mr. Sampath Manthrinayake

Rural Development Training and Research Institute (RDTRI)
Director
Ms. Thilini Surangika Karasnagoda

Vision

“Becoming the prominent institution in community empowerment for a prosperous Sri Lanka”

Mission

While empowering the community by applying participatory development mechanism, contributing through training, research and provision of information to maximize their active participation for sustainable rural development.