>Zahira College Scouts Strengthen Leadership and Unity at the Second MOASQAR Annual Scout Camp 2026
The 11th Colombo Scout Group of Zahira College Colombo successfully conducted the Second MOASQAR Annual Scout Camp 2026 under the theme "Strength Through Unity" from 26th to 29th June 2026 at Al Mubarak School, Malwana.
The four-day residential camp brought together more than 250 scouts of Zahira College Colombo for an immersive scouting experience aimed at developing leadership, discipline, teamwork, resilience, and self-reliance through practical outdoor learning.
Throughout the camp, participants engaged in a comprehensive programme of scouting activities, including campcraft, pioneering, navigation, first aid, outdoor survival techniques, leadership development sessions, team-building exercises, problem-solving challenges, cultural events, and campfire activities. These experiences enabled the scouts to strengthen their practical scouting knowledge while fostering friendship, responsibility, and respect for one another.
MOASQAR has become one of the flagship annual scouting initiatives of the 11th Colombo Scout Group, reflecting the group's continued commitment to producing responsible young leaders who uphold the values and traditions of scouting while making meaningful contributions to society.
Commenting on the success of the camp, Camp Organizer Husaindeen Najimudeen said:
"MOASQAR is more than just a scout camp. It is a platform where our young scouts learn to lead, serve, and grow together. Every activity is carefully designed to build confidence, discipline, teamwork, and resilience while strengthening the spirit of unity that defines scouting. We are proud to see more than 250 Zahira scouts embracing these values and preparing themselves to become responsible leaders of tomorrow."
The organizers expressed their sincere appreciation to the Scout leaders, volunteers, parents, old scouts, supporters, and well-wishers whose dedication and commitment contributed to the successful execution of the camp.
As the Second MOASQAR Annual Scout Camp concludes, it leaves behind lasting memories, stronger friendships, and a renewed commitment among the scouts of Zahira College Colombo to live by the Scout Promise and Law while continuing to serve their school and community with pride.
10.07.2026
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Academic Courses in India for Sri Lankan Students under Self financing Scheme
High Commission of India, Colombo invites applications from eligible Sri Lankan students (excluding PIO/OCI Card holders & NRIs) for Undergraduate Courses in MBBS, BDS, BE, B.Tech, B.Pharm, B.Arch, Diploma level Technical courses and Diploma in Pharmacy course under the Self Financing Scheme for academic year 2026-27.
Candidates who wish to apply for MBBS/BDS courses need to have at least 50th percentile in NEET exam and 50% each in Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English in A/L.
BE/B.Tech and Diploma in engineering candidates require a minimum of 60% each in Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics and 50% in English in A/L.
For B.Pharmacy and Diploma in Pharmacy, minimum of 60% each in Physics, Chemistry and Biology and 50% in English in A/L are required.
B.Arch aspirants have to mandatorily clear the aptitude test prescribed by the Council of Architecture, New Delhi.
Interested candidates could obtain the application forms from Education Wing of the High Commission of India, Colombo on any working day between 1400 and1600 hrs on production of G.C.E. O/L, A/L certificates and Birth Certificate.
Last date of receipt of complete application forms with all supportive documents at the High Commission is July 24, 2026.
07.07.2026
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ESOL Premier Campus and OCN London partner to deliver internationally-recognised UK qualifications for students and professionals in Sri Lanka
Ms. Amali Jayasinghe, Director – ESOL Premier Campus; Mr. Himantha Karunarathne, Director – ESOL Premier Campus; Mr. Carlos Cubillo-Barsi, Chief Executive Officer – OCN London; Ms. Premila Paulraj, Regional Head – South Asia, OCN London; and Mr. Andrew Abinash, General Manager – ESOL Premier Campus, at the official launch of the exclusive partnership between ESOL Premier Campus and OCN London to offer internationally recognised, Ofqual-regulated UK qualifications in Sri Lanka.
Offering local students and professionals, access to world-renowned UK-accredited qualifications, ESOL Premier Campus has officially launched OCN London qualifications in Sri Lanka through an exclusive partnership with the UK awarding organisation. In operation since the 1970s, OCN London is a recognised UK Awarding Organisation regulated by Ofqual UK. ESOL Premier Campus is an established education provider with a track record of delivering universally recognised programmes. This provides a unique opportunity to gain globally accepted, Ofqual-regulated qualifications in English, Business Management, Education and Training, and Digital Marketing without having to travel abroad, while enhancing academic and career prospects.
This strategic partnership marks the first time these OCN London qualification pathways are being made widely accessible to learners in Sri Lanka, providing affordable and flexible alternatives to traditional higher education routes. Learners can progress from Level 3 to Level 7 qualifications while accessing global credentials that support academic advancement, professional development and career progression.
Elaborating further, Andrew Abinash, General Manager of ESOL Premier Campus says, “We are delighted to introduce OCN London qualifications to Sri Lanka through ESOL Premier Campus, creating new opportunities for learners to access internationally accepted UK qualifications without the need to travel overseas. As an Ofqual-regulated UK awarding organisation, OCN London is renowned for its commitment to quality, accessibility and learner progression, making this partnership a significant milestone in our mission to deliver world-class education opportunities locally.”
He adds further, “These qualifications provide students, professionals and lifelong learners with flexible pathways to higher education, career advancement and personal development while ensuring they receive learning and assessment aligned with international standards. Through this exclusive partnership, learners now have access to recognised progression pathways that can support university top-up opportunities and international study options, empowering Sri Lankans with credentials that are recognised and valued around the world.”
The opportunity to gain OCN London qualifications in Sri Lanka provides immense benefits for school leavers seeking globally reputed qualifications; students who have completed their O/Ls and A/Ls and are looking for alternative higher education pathways; working professionals seeking career advancement; teachers and aspiring educators interested in professional development qualifications; parents seeking quality international education opportunities for their children; entrepreneurs and corporate employees looking to strengthen their management expertise; and individuals considering overseas university progression opportunities.
The OCN London portfolio offered through ESOL Premier Campus includes OCN London ESOL International qualifications at CEFR B1, B2, C1 and C2 levels, the OCN London Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training, the Level 3 Certificate in Principles of Business Administration, the Level 4 Diploma and Level 5 Diploma in Business Management, as well as the Level 4 Certificate and Level 4 Diploma in Digital Marketing. These qualifications have been developed in accordance with international academic and professional standards and are designed to support progression into higher education and employment opportunities.
The ESOL Premier Campus ensures that students receive quality learning and assessment aligned with UK standards, while benefiting from clear progression pathways from Level 3 through Level 7 qualifications. Successful learners may also gain access to leading university top-up opportunities, further strengthening their academic and professional prospects.
In addition, the programmes offer affordability and flexibility for learners seeking internationally acknowledged qualifications in light of the growing demand for global credentials, English language proficiency, business knowledge and professional skills in today’s competitive workforce. Delivered through online and hybrid learning models, the qualifications enable learners to study from anywhere in Sri Lanka or internationally while balancing their personal and professional commitments.
This partnership between ESOL Premier Campus and OCN London brings UK-quality education closer to Sri Lankan learners by expanding access to globally accepted qualifications and creating practical pathways to higher education, career development and international progression opportunities. It also reinforces ESOL Premier Campus’ commitment to making international education more accessible and attainable for a wider community of learners.
06.07.2026
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Embedding creativity in every classroom: A regional conversation on the future of English language teaching
The British Council has announced the South Asia TeachingEnglish Online Conference 2026, a free three-day event that will convene educators, researchers and teacher educators from across the region to examine one of the most pressing questions facing education today: how can schools equip learners with the creativity, adaptability and communication skills needed to thrive in an increasingly complex world?
Taking place from 23–25 July 2026, the online conference comes at a time when education systems across South Asia are grappling with the challenge of balancing curriculum demands, assessment pressures and evolving learner needs. While English remains a critical gateway to academic and professional opportunities, educators are increasingly seeking approaches that move beyond language acquisition alone to foster critical thinking, collaboration, learner agency and participation.
Against this backdrop, the conference will bring together leading voices from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka to explore the role of creativity as a catalyst for deeper learning. Discussions will examine how multilingual classrooms can become more inclusive, how learner voice can be strengthened through innovative pedagogies, and how emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, can be harnessed to enhance rather than replace human-centred teaching.
Through keynote talks, practitioner-led discussions and classroom case studies, participants will gain insight into how educators across South Asia are responding to shared challenges with locally relevant solutions. The programme will spotlight practical approaches that are helping teachers create more engaging learning environments, encourage meaningful participation and expand opportunities for learners from diverse backgrounds.
Orlando Edwards, Country Director, British Council Sri Lanka said: “Creativity plays a vital role in helping learners develop the communication, collaboration and critical-thinking skills they need to succeed in today's world. Through the South Asia TeachingEnglish Online Conference 2026, we are bringing together outstanding educators and teacher educators from across the region to share practical ideas, research-informed approaches and classroom strategies that teachers can adapt to their own contexts. We are delighted to offer this free professional development opportunity and look forward to welcoming educators from across South Asia and beyond.”
06.07.2026
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SLIIT’s SciFest 2026 Inspires the Next Generation of Scientists and Innovators
By Vipula Amarasainghe
The Department of Applied Sciences at the Faculty of Humanities and Sciences, SLIIT, successfully hosted SciFest 2026 on 5th June 2026 at the SLIIT Malabe Campus. This annual science festival was designed to inspire both school and university students to explore the fields of science, innovation, and entrepreneurship as key drivers of real-world solutions.
The fourth edition of SciFest brought together approximately 300 participants, including school students, university undergraduates, academics, industry experts, and partners. Organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, the event highlighted SLIIT’s ongoing commitment to advancing science education, fostering innovation, and strengthening ties between academia and industry.
The occasion was graced by Dr. Ruchira Wijesena, Senior Lecturer at the Institute of Technology, University of Moratuwa, as the Chief Guest and keynote speaker. Distinguished attendees included Prof. Lakshman Ratnayake, Chancellor and Chairman; Prof. Nimal Rajapakse, Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost; Dr. Malitha Wijesundara, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Faculty of Humanities and Sciences; Prof. Ayantha Gomes, Dean, Faculty of Engineering; Prof. Colin N. Peiris, Dean, Academic Development and Quality Assurance; and Prof. Sriyani N. Peiris, former Head of the Department of Applied Sciences.
The judging panel comprised respected industry and academic professionals, including Dr. Lasantha Malavige, Chairman of Lassana Group; Dr. Dilan Fernando, Director of SLIIT Innovate; Mr. Niresh Ratnagopal, Head of Programs at Hatch Works (Pvt) Ltd.; Mr. Rishan Sampath, Manager of Dilmah Conservation & Sustainability; along with Prof. Eranga Wijesinghe and Prof. Nathali Silva representing SLIIT.
The Science Quiz Competition tested students’ knowledge in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Out of 30 schools from five provinces, four finalists competed at SLIIT. Vishvoda College, Kurunegala emerged as champions, while St. Mary’s College, Kegalle and Malabe Boys Model School secured first and second runner-up positions, respectively.
The IGNITE Innovation Competition brought together around 80 participants from school and university categories, encouraging them to present commercially viable scientific solutions. In the university category, Team SilenceSpeak from SLIIT, led by Dineth Shawinda Samarakoon, won first place for their sign-language interpretation glove. In the school category, H.P. Dulja Sanuli Karunasekara from WP/GM/Yasodara Devi Balika Vidyalaya secured first place with a project on dengue mosquito larvae detection.
Commenting on the initiative, Dr. Malitha Wijesundara, Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Humanities and Sciences, stated: “SciFest 2026 was created to help young minds see science beyond the classroom. By combining knowledge, creativity and entrepreneurship, we encourage students to think critically, develop practical solutions, and understand how innovation contributes to society and the economy.”
SciFest 2026 was supported by ALTHIA and AVON Pharmo Chem as title sponsors, with U & P Global Tec as the premier partner. Additional support was provided by LifeCare Biotech, CeyDev, P&T, and Hemsons.
The winners were awarded a total of LKR 100,000 in cash prizes, along with medals, awards, and certificates in recognition of their outstanding achievements.
SLIIT aims to further expand SciFest in future editions to enhance science engagement, promote innovation, and nurture the next generation of Sri Lanka’s scientists and entrepreneurs.
02.07.2026
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Dr Nirmal De Silva elected President of St. Peter's College Old Boys' Union as the institution approaches its centenary
By Vipula Amarasinghe
The St. Peter’s College Old Boys’ Union (SPCOBU) has unanimously elected distinguished corporate leader, academic, and alumnus Dr. Nirmal De Silva as its new President. The election took place during the Union’s 97th Annual General Meeting on June 28, 2026. Dr. De Silva succeeds Mr. Roshan Fernando, who successfully led and strengthened the institution over the past two years.
Dr. De Silva’s election marks a historic milestone as the SPCOBU approaches its Centenary celebrations, which are scheduled to commence at the College premises on October 18. Under his leadership, the Union is poised to honor nearly a century of traditions and fellowship among Peterites while charting a progressive vision for its second century.
Founded in 1927, the SPCOBU has grown alongside St. Peter’s College, which originally traced its roots back to its origins as St. Joseph’s College South. The Union’s first President was its founding Rector, Rev. Fr. Nicholas Perera OMI. For exactly fifty years, the presidency remained tied to the office of the sitting Rector.
A landmark shift occurred in 1977 following a proposal by Rev. Fr. Francis Madiwela, which paved the way for the appointment of the Union’s first lay President, Mr. J.A.R. Felix. Since that structural transition, nineteen distinguished alumni have held the position. Dr. De Silva now steps in as the 21st lay President to lead the institution at this highly significant, historic juncture.
To ensure organizational continuity during this critical centenary period, Mr. Dastaquir Ismail and Mr. Roshan Abeygoonewardena will continue to serve in their respective roles as Honorary General Secretary and Honorary Treasurer, following a distinguished preceding term.
The newly constituted Committee of Management for the 2026/27 term includes:
President: Dr. Nirmal de Silva
Immediate Past President: Roshan Fernando
Nominated Past President(s): Romeish de Mel, Asela Lihinikaduwa, Sanjeeva Abeygoonawardena
Vice President(s): Jude Fernando, AVM Roshan Biyanwila, Suren Perera, Eroshan Mallawarachchi, Anil Philips, Kanishka Hewage
Hony. General Secretary: Dastaquir Ismail
Hony. Treasurer: Roshan Abeygoonawardena
Hony. Assistant General Secretary: Anushka Mendis
Hony. Assistant Treasurer: Irfan Amirdeen
Hony. Editor: Sanjeew Perera
Assistant Editor: Yohan Dalpatadu
Centenary Committee Chair: Shawn Adams
General Committee Members:
Algi Wjiewickrema, Hiran Fernando, Fabian Angunawela, Sujeeva Dahanayake, Malcolm Mattheisz, Angelo Wickramasekara, Asela Perera, Vinoshan Richard, Mario Louis, Dhanushka Wijesekara, Ashan Alles, Shihan Gunawardena, Stephan Costa, Malith Kulasinghe, Malkan Cader, Rashen Perera, Dinuk Ranasinghe, Aadhil Izzeth, Suresh Thiviyan, Qadheer Rawoof, Enosh Mishal Aponsu, Maleesha Nisharaka Perera, Nalin Jayasundara, Prasad Manage, Haariz Rahman, Rukmal Goonathiliake, and Shiyan Jayaweera.
As the Centenary milestone draws near, the newly appointed Committee of Management takes on the dual responsibility of preserving the Union’s storied heritage while steering the global network of Peterite alumni confidently into the future.
02.07.2026
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The Students Visa earns prestigious Navitas UK recognition
Imran Kaisar Talukdar, Student Recruitment Manager (UK & Europe) – Sri Lanka & Bangladesh, Navitas; Bonisha Liyanage, Student Counsellor, The Students Visa; and Anoiline Thevaranjan, Regional Manager – Sri Lanka & Maldives, Global Sales and Marketing, Navitas.
The Students Visa has been recognised with the Navitas UK – New & Emerging Agent Award (Sri Lanka) 2025/26, marking a significant milestone in the company's growth as one of Sri Lanka's emerging international education consultancies. Presented by Navitas UK through a Certificate of Appreciation at a ceremony held recently at Amari Colombo, the award recognises the organisation's strong performance, commitment to excellence and growing contribution to supporting Sri Lankan students pursuing higher education in the United Kingdom.
Navitas UK is a leading global education provider that delivers academic and English-language pathway programmes, direct-entry undergraduate and postgraduate certificates, and postgraduate degrees in partnership with universities across the United Kingdom. The recognition reflects The Students Visa's commitment to connecting aspiring students with internationally recognised education opportunities while maintaining high standards of professional guidance and student support.
Founded by CEO Raees Ul Haq, The Students Visa has rapidly established itself as a trusted name in overseas education consultancy. Through a combination of strategic leadership, operational excellence, digital innovation and a student-centred approach, the organisation has continued to strengthen its presence within the international education sector while expanding partnerships with leading global education providers.
Based at Hatch Works, No. 14 Sir Baron Jayatilaka Mawatha, Colombo 1, The Students Visa provides comprehensive guidance throughout the study-abroad journey, from university selection and applications to visa support and pre-departure services. The consultancy is also supported by British Council-certified counsellors, ensuring students and their families receive ethical, informed and professional advice throughout the admissions process.
Commenting on the achievement, Founder and CEO Raees Ul Haq said: "Receiving this recognition from Navitas UK is a significant milestone for our organisation and reflects the dedication, professionalism and passion of our entire team. From the beginning, our mission has been to provide students with trusted guidance and access to quality international education opportunities. This award inspires us to continue raising the standard of education consultancy in Sri Lanka while strengthening our global partnerships."
COO Nuzri Munsoor, CTO Charindu, and CGO Thilina Rajapakse said the recognition was a proud achievement that validates the company's continued investment in student success, digital innovation and service excellence.
"This award belongs to every member of our team who has worked tirelessly to support students and their families throughout their overseas education journey. We remain committed to delivering transparent, ethical and technology-driven services while building stronger relationships with leading education institutions around the world," Nuzri added.
The Navitas UK – New & Emerging Agent Award marks another important milestone in The Students Visa's journey, reinforcing its commitment to empowering Sri Lankan students with greater access to globally recognised education and long-term academic success.
26.06.2026
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SLIIT Business School's SoftSkills+ 2026 Puts Sri Lanka's Future Leaders in the Spotlight
From 112 teams, 48 contenders made it to The Grand Finale of SoftSkills+ 2026, organized by the SLIIT Business School. SLIIT was a hive of energy on 16 May, as 192 students from all districts of Sri Lanka displayed leadership, communication, creativity and teamwork. Vying for first place at the prestigious event, SoftSkills+ served as a vibrant platform to celebrate and encourage talent among the future generation of leaders.
The event reflected the growing importance of soft skills development among the younger generation and highlighted SLIIT Business School’s commitment to nurturing future-ready leaders. Methodist College Colombo emerged champions of SoftSkills+ 2026, while Ratnapura Sivali Central College placed as runners up, Badulla Central College claimed the 2nd runner-up title.
The occasion was graced by Mr. Chaaminda Kumarasiri, Chairman of ACCA Sri Lanka, who attended as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, he emphasized the significance of communication, leadership, adaptability, and interpersonal skills in today’s rapidly evolving professional landscape.
Distinguished artist Ms. Madani Malwattage and Mr. Tharindu Weerasinghe Senior Lecturer University of Kelaniya conducted an engaging Soft Skills Development Workshop for the participants. Their insightful sessions inspired students to enhance skills which are essential in today’s professional settings.
SoftSkills+ 2026 was proudly supported by several leading organizations and brands that contributed towards making the event a remarkable success. The organizers extended their sincere appreciation to British Council, SLIIT International, CIMA Sri Lanka,Inspire Business School,Milo (Nestlé),Singer,Fusion Gear, Commercial Bank and to Hemas Consumer Brands.
The competition concluded on a highly competitive yet celebratory note, recognizing outstanding performances from schools. Mr.Ranitha Weerarathna, Coordinator SoftSkills+2026 and Senior Lecturer-SLIIT Business School stated that "the remarkable success and positive impact of this year’s event have undoubtedly set a strong foundation for future editions".
23.06.2026
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SLIIT-Japan Research Collaboration leveraging Explainable AI to Strengthen Public Health
The Sri Lankan–Japanese research team behind the Scientific Reports study on explainable AI and intentional injury mortality, highlighting the role of international academic collaboration in advancing public health surveillance.
Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used to understand complex public health and social challenges, including the persistent crisis of intentional injury mortality linked to homicide and suicide. A recently published international study has now applied explainable AI to examine this issue across the Americas, while highlighting the growing contribution of Sri Lankan academics to globally relevant research.
The study, titled “Explainable AI for Public Health Surveillance: Investigating the Persistent Crisis of Intentional Injury Mortality (Suicide and Homicide) in the Americas,” was published in Scientific Reports and authored by Ms. Sherin Kularathne, Dr. Namal Rathnayake, Prof. Ruwan Jayathilaka, Prof. Iori Nakaoka, and Prof. Yukinobu Hoshino.
The publication is especially significant for its Sri Lankan–Japanese research collaboration. Ms. Kularathne, a former SLIIT MBA student and now a PhD candidate at Kochi University of Technology, Japan, contributed alongside Prof. Yukinobu Hoshino from the School of Data and Innovation. Dr. Namal Rathnayake is attached to the Advanced Institute for Marine Ecosystem Change in Yokohama, Japan, while Prof. Ruwan Jayathilaka represents SLIIT Business School. Prof. Iori Nakaoka is affiliated with the Faculty of Data Science, Shimonoseki City University, Japan.
The research analysed data from 25 countries in the Americas from 2000 to 2019, focusing on socioeconomic and governance-related indicators such as unemployment, inflation, corruption perception, and economic growth. By using both snapshot and persistence-aware modelling, the study found that long-term structural conditions and historical patterns play a major role in shaping intentional injury mortality.
Prof. Ruwan Jayathilaka noted, “Artificial intelligence should not be used only to predict outcomes. It must also help researchers and policymakers understand why those outcomes occur. Explainable AI allows us to identify the factors that influence public health crises and support more informed decision-making.”
The study also used SHAP analysis to interpret how different factors influenced the predictions, offering policymakers clearer insights into how public health surveillance can become more targeted, transparent, and evidence-based.
Through this publication, the research team demonstrates how international collaboration, data science, and socially responsible research can contribute to stronger public health understanding and more practical policy responses.
16.06.2026
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20th Anniversary of Up-Country Education Development Society
High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, H.E. Santosh Jha, attended the 20th Anniversary celebrations of the Up-Country Education Development Society (UEDS) in Colombo on 14 June 2026. Hon.Ramalingam Chandrasekar, Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, Hon.Pradeep Sundaralingam, Deputy Minister of Plantation and Community Infrastructure and H.W. Vraie Cally Balthazaar, Mayor of Colombo Municipal Council also participated at the event.
Congratulating UEDS on two decades of dedicated service, the High Commissioner commended the Society’s significant contribution towards promoting education and empowering the Indian Origin Tamil (IOT) community. He noted that IOT community occupies a special place in the shared history and civilisational ties between India and Sri Lanka and continues to serve as a living bridge between the two countries.
Reaffirming India’s commitment to education as a driver of inclusive development, the High Commissioner highlighted the recent enhancement of the Ceylon Estate Workers’ Educational Trust (CEWET) Scholarship Programme, under which the number of beneficiaries has doubled from 350 to 700, along with increased scholarship assistance. He also referred to India’s continued support through Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) scholarships, Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) training programmes and other capacity-building initiatives that have benefited thousands of Sri Lankan students and professionals.
High Commissioner also highlighted several projects being implemented under the Government of India’s INR 75 crore Indian Origin Tamil Package, upgradation of school infrastructure, and STEM training for over 2,000 plantation school teachers. He further noted the ongoing implementation of India’s housing programme for IOT families and the recent decision to extend Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card eligibility to the fifth and sixth generations of the Sri Lankan diaspora of Indian origin & procedural relaxations.
SLIIT Final-Year Innovators Secure Global AI Victory
Team Akura from SLIIT wins the OneEarth AI Tool Building Challenge
Team Akura- a group of four students from SLIIT’s Faculty of Computing- emerged champions at the 2026 AI Tool Building Challenge on OneEarth. This virtual competition was organized by the School of Computing of Goldsmith’s University, London. Seeing that their fourth-year project fits the brief which calls for using AI-driven solutions to address real-world challenges, their mentor Dr. Dinuka Wijendra guided the team and supervised their application to the competition.
The team consisting of Mihiran Nanayakkara, Dinithi Piyathilaka, Dhuwindhu Rathnayake and Rahul Nanayakkara designed a mobile, multi-modal learning platform for children aged 3-6 to support learning Sinhala. Although the world is divided about allowing screen-time for young children, Team Akura’s approach is to make this exposure productive.
Initial research, according to Team Akura, showed that most digital learning aids and tools focused on rote learning leaving the process of internalizing knowledge unaddressed. In response they built an adaptive tool which combines handwriting guidance, pronunciation assessment, gesture-based numeracy and emotion-aware learning to deliver personalized real-time education support.
Competing under the theme of AI for Inclusive & Quality Education, they faced two rounds of presentations-defending their work to panels of seasoned international experts. Admittedly an unnerving experience for the team, they faced judges ranging from experts in cloud systems, cyber security, Generative AI, and data security. Confidence levels improved, the team reports, after presenting their work in the first round. Seeing their ideas resonate with industry professionals from all over the world they say was deeply rewarding and inspiring.
When Team Akura was pronounced as the winners earlier this year, most team members were preparing for their final exams at SLIIT. Not only did this win encourage them to finish their degrees strongly- but it also came with further mentorship from a few judges from leading tech and education organizations.
10.06.2026
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Mogo Media Academy to Hold Its First-Ever Inaugural Graduation Ceremony
By Vipula Amarasinghe
Mogo Media Academy successfully held its Inaugural Graduation Ceremony on the 4th of June 2026 at the BMICH Lotus Hall, marking a major milestone in the academy’s journey of shaping Sri Lanka’s next generation of creative professionals.
The ceremony celebrated the achievements of the academy’s first and second student batches, with a total of 115 students graduating across multiple creative and media disciplines. This included 73 students graduating from Diploma programs in Animation, Game Development, Concept Art, and Visual Effects (VFX), alongside 42 students who successfully completed the Certificate in Professional Training in Radio Presentation.
The event brought together graduates, parents, industry professionals, invited guests, and well-wishers to recognize the hard work, creativity, and dedication of the students who successfully completed their academic and professional training at the academy.
A significant highlight of the graduation was that many of the graduates have already secured employment and are actively working within the creative and digital media industry, contributing to professional projects both locally and internationally. Their success reflects the academy’s strong emphasis on industry-focused education and practical learning experiences, ensuring higher employment potential immediately upon graduation.
The Chief Guest of the ceremony was Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya.
Mogo Media Academy was established with the vision of bridging the gap between traditional education and the rapidly evolving global media and entertainment industry. Recognizing the growing demand for skilled professionals in animation, gaming, VFX, digital content creation, and emerging technologies, the academy was founded to provide world-class creative education that aligns with international industry standards.
This prestigious academy was created to empower talented Sri Lankan youth by offering hands-on, project-based learning experiences guided by seasoned industry professionals. Students also gained valuable exposure through learning sessions conducted by an international lecture panel, further enhancing their knowledge, skills, and understanding of global industry standards. Through access to cutting edge technology, production workflows, and real-world exposure, students are trained to become innovative creators, storytellers, and technical professionals capable of competing on a global platform.
Since its inception, Mogo Media Academy has continued to focus on developing highly skilled creative professionals while contributing towards the growth of Sri Lanka’s digital creative economy. The institution remains committed to nurturing talent, encouraging innovation, and creating new opportunities for young individuals passionate about the media and entertainment industry.
The graduation ceremony stood as a proud and emotional moment for both the academy and its students, symbolizing not only academic achievement but also the beginning of promising professional careers in the global creative industry.
08.06.2025
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