The important feature of the year was the holding of certain special programmes such as the programme  on  the  issues  faced  by  and  the  Human  Rights  status  of  the  Blind,  a  workshop  on  Elder’s   rights and the awareness programme on Human rights held at the Weeravilawatte Children’s  Home. Awareness programmes were via media throughout the year. Working with Regional Committees. Awareness programmes were conducted for regional Committees. In addition, discussions were held with civil organizations operating in the area on the Human Rights issues. In addition, grassroots level workshops were organized and the participation of the Commission was obtained for those. The Regional Office this year jointly worked with the Human Development Organization and the Samadana Institute in conducting educational programmes on human rights. 5.8. Regional Office, Matara Introduction This regional office covers the Districts of Galle, Matara and Hambantota There are 10 employees of the Commission serving at the regional office. The Southern Province stretches up to 5497.41 square Kilometers and the total population is 2,391,000. There are 03 Municipal Councils, 03 Town Councils, 36 Pradeshiya Sabhas, 47 Divisional Secretariats, 1295 schools, 57 Police Stations, 73 hospitals, 06 prisons and detention camps and 05 Homes for Children within the Southern Province. 84