TOKYO, JAPAN — In a landmark achievement for the global scouting community, Bhanuka Karunaratne, a dedicated member of the Old Kingswoodian Scouts’ Association (OKSA), has officially become the first Sri Lankan to receive the prestigious Wood Badge from the Japan Scout Council.
The Wood Badge is one of the highest honors in scouting, representing advanced leadership and a deep commitment to the movement’s values. For Karunaratne, this 2026 milestone is the crowning achievement of a journey that began nearly two decades ago in Kandy.
A Legacy of Excellence
Karunaratne’s scouting career is marked by a consistent climb through the ranks, demonstrating leadership both locally and internationally. His impressive track record includes:
-
2007: Earned the Gold Star, setting the foundation for his scouting path.
-
2015: Received the President’s Award, the highest scout rank in Sri Lanka.
-
2022: Appointed as a Japan Rover Council Member, representing the movement in his host country.
-
2023: Participated in the World Scout Jamboree in South Korea, contributing to the global scouting dialogue.
-
2026: Awarded the Wood Badge, making history as the first Sri Lankan to do so under the Japan Scout Council.
Overcoming Barriers
While earning the Wood Badge is a rigorous process for any leader, Karunaratne navigated unique challenges. Over the course of six years, he worked tirelessly within the Japanese scouting system, mastering the complex requirements while simultaneously overcoming a significant Japanese language barrier.
“I have spent over six years working hard to achieve this award,” Karunaratne shared. “There were many challenges, especially with the language. I never imagined that I would achieve this childhood dream, which started when I was eight years old, in Japan.”
From Kingswood to the World Stage
Karunaratne’s success is a testament to the discipline and spirit fostered at Kingswood College. By elevating his scouting journey to an international level, he has bridged the traditions of Sri Lankan scouting with the high standards of Japanese leadership.
Reflecting on the milestone, he expressed deep gratitude to his roots and his peers:
“I am truly happy and proud. I sincerely thank everyone who supported me, even with just a single word of encouragement. To my Kingswood Scouts and Japanese scout friends, thank you very much.”
An Inspiration for the Next Generation
This historic achievement serves as a beacon of inspiration for young scouts in Sri Lanka. It proves that with nearly 20 years of dedication, cultural and linguistic barriers can be transformed into bridges for success.
As Bhanuka Karunaratne celebrates this unforgettable milestone, the Old Kingswoodian Scouts’ Association and the entire Kingswood community stand proud of his historic contribution to the global scouting movement.