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.This marks the start of an exciting journey where you will gain in-depth knowledge, explore your passions, and build lasting friendships. At IIT, we are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of tech leaders by providing an environment that fosters growth, innovation, and success.

We look forward to supporting you as you take the first step toward shaping your future and making your mark in the world of technology.

The Informatics Institute of Technology (IIT), Sri Lanka’s leading private higher education provider with over 35 years of excellence, offers Foundation, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degree programmes in collaboration with two prestigious UK universities – the University of Westminster and Robert Gordon University.

Hutch Sri Lanka recently won six awards at SLIM Digis 2.5, making it one of the most awarded brands at this year’s digital excellence forum.

This achievement is especially meaningful as Hutch stood out as the only telecom operator to receive an accolade.

Organised by the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM), SLIM Digis is the country’s most renowned platform for recognising innovation and digital excellence. Hutch’s recognition reflects its ability to combine creativity with measurable results, staying deeply connected to the everyday needs of its customers while setting high benchmarks in the industry. Evidently, Hutch is staying ahead in the evolving digital landscape, guided by data-driven decision-making and fuelled by novel creativity. The honours reaffirm that those approaches are not just relevant but impactful.

In the category of Best Use of Digital in the Telecommunication Sector, Hutch won for its ‘There’s Always an Option’ campaign, which has come to define its renewed brand journey. Hutch was also awarded for the pioneering 2X product, which combines home broadband and mobile data into a single plan, and for ‘Ratatama Hutch ,’ an agile campaign during the election period that connected with the audience through culturally relevant storytelling. Under Best Performance Marketing, Hutch was recognised for its eSIM services, which redefine connectivity without physical SIMs, and for its Roaming campaign, which was praised for improving overseas connectivity via data-driven optimisation.

Hutch Sri Lanka Chief Marketing Officer Hamdhy Hassen said: ‘These awards reflect the commitment of our teams to make great work that resonate with Sri Lankan audiences in the digital age. We are humbled to be amongst the most awarded brands and the only telecom to be recognised this year. We believe this recognition is truly deserved as it mirrors the efforts we have made to deliver real value, innovation, and growth to our customers and the industry.’

The Colombo Lotus Tower Management Company (CLTMC) said that it has increased revenue by 31% since it took over administration.

This was disclosed by the CLTMC Chairman Shirantha Peries and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Chamaru de Alwis, at a press briefing on Tuesday evening.

‘Since we took over the administration exactly a year ago, the CLTMC has demonstrated remarkable financial progress under the new management,’ CLTMC Chairman Shirantha Peries, addressing a press briefing on Tuesday which was attended by CEO Dr. Chamaru de Alwis.

‘For the period ending August 2025, revenue reached Rs. 1.43 billion, a 31% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The gross profit grew by 77% to Rs. 786.86 million, with margins improving from 42% to 55%. Our Profit Before Tax (PBT) surged by 192% to Rs. 539.93 million, with margins rising from 18% to 38%. This strong performance reflects disciplined management, prudent decision-making, and effective cost controls,’ Peries said, highlighting the possibility of further enhancing on efficiency and services provided to visitors of the country’s and South Asia’s tallest self-supported structure.

Since October 2024, the Colombo Lotus Tower has been under new management, led by the Chairman Peries, CEO Dr. de Alwis and the Board of Directors. CLTMC boasts a team of more than 120.

The new management has focused on enhancing safety, operational efficiency, visitor experience, and financial performance, while positioning the Tower as a premier cultural, entertainment, and adventure destination in South Asia.

CLTMC remains committed to upholding international standards of safety, operational efficiency, financial transparency, and innovation, and with strategic initiatives underway, the Company is focused on establishing Colombo Lotus Tower as South Asia’s foremost hub for Education, Technology, and Entertainment.

‘Our priorities have been to strengthen operational efficiency, unlock promotional opportunities and deliver greater value to the public. Despite challenges we faced, we have recorded a significant growth in both revenue, which is the number for launching new initiatives that position the local company. I extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to the Board of Directors, our highly educated staff, valued partners and stakeholders for their continued trust and support as we take the tower to even greater heights,’ Peries added.

Following the tragic incident of 7 October 2024 under the previous management, in which a young student lost her life, the new management acted swiftly to strengthen safeguards further and maintain international safety standards. A steel mesh barrier was installed around the Observation Deck, security personnel were increased, and CCTV surveillance was enhanced across key areas. These measures, along with revised protocols and heightened monitoring, reaffirm CLTMC’s commitment to ensuring that visitor safety, security, and well-being remain at the heart of its operations.

Peries said, ‘A partnership with the National Research Office around the Lotus Tower has initiated a series of forward-thinking digital projects. First, the digital ticketing platform, from a print to a digital ticketing platform replaced the manual system with a fully digital ticketing platform. Enhanced financial transparency, incident tracking and quality has provided a convenient and seamless entry experience for all guests who visit the tower. A smart digital tower parking solution is under development and all of us hope it will be in operation in the next two months. This includes real-time space monitoring, optimisation of revenue collection and streamlined cash management. We, as the new management, have done justice to the valuable funds of all Sri Lankans, while enhancing the present government’s commitment towards an accountable administration.’

During the past 12 months the CLTMC has upheld its contractual rights in the Court of Appeal against non-compliant tenants, a legal outcome that reinforces the Tower’s standing as a well-managed national asset and safeguards its long-term commercial interests.

As part of its ongoing strategy to maximise the Lotus Tower’s commercial potential, CLTMC has been actively identifying and leasing additional prime commercial spaces. These initiatives contribute to sustainable revenue growth, enhance the vibrancy of services offered, and strengthen the Tower’s role as a dynamic hub for business, leisure, and cultural activities.

CLTMC CEO Dr. de Alwis noted, ‘As the Chairman duly highlighted, every single inch or square foot of the property matters, as potential investments that could enhance the market value of Lotus Tower as a popular destination among local and foreign visitors, as well as investors. We highly admire the commitment of our staff members, who have been genuine the strength behind the success of Lotus Tower during the 12 months under the new management.’

Looking ahead, the CLTMC has laid the groundwork for projects that will shape the Tower’s future and reinforce its position as a premier destination in South Asia. Among these is the proposed Lotus Aquarium Café, a joint venture that will combine a state-of-the-art Aquarium Gallery with a themed Café backed by a proposed Rs. 100 million investment.

In addition, CLTMC has signed an agreement to introduce Sri Lanka’s first-ever bungee jumping attraction, which will also be the world’s highest tower bungee jump. Currently in the engineering and planning stages, this initiative is set to launch next year.

The 28th-floor luxury suites boast breathtaking panoramic views of Colombo’s skyline, Beira Lake, and the lush surrounding landscapes, these suites will be repositioned as exclusive accommodation for high-end guests seeking privacy, elegance, and unmatched scenery.

CLTMC plans to operate them as signature luxury stay experiences, offering elevated comfort, personalised service, and world-class hospitality standards, complete with premium amenities and curated guest services, making them a standout choice for discerning travellers, dignitaries, and VIP visitors alike.

Furthermore, a warehouse project of 42,000 square feet also presents significant opportunities for new investment. CLTMC is in active discussions with multinational investors to develop these spaces into profitable ventures, potentially attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) to Sri Lanka. By converting underutilised areas into active commercial assets, CLTMC demonstrates its commitment to maximising the Tower’s value for the nation, fostering international partnerships, and welcoming new investment opportunities.

Play is not a luxury for children-it is a fundamental part of their physical, emotional and intellectual development. In an age where screens often replace playgrounds, it is vital to restore the value of outdoor activities and unstructured playtime. On World Children’s Day, we are reminded that a child’s wellbeing depends not only on education and safety, but also on the freedom to explore, imagine and move.

Outdoor play helps children build stronger bodies through running, climbing, jumping and balancing. These physical activities improve coordination, bone strength and immunity while reducing the risk of childhood obesity. Exposure to natural sunlight supports essential Vitamin D production, which strengthens bones and promotes overall health.

Beyond physical benefits, outdoor play stimulates cognitive development. When children engage in games, build with natural materials or explore their surroundings, they develop problem-solving skills, curiosity and creativity. Activities such as hide-and-seek, sand play or nature walks enhance imagination in ways screens cannot replicate.

Social skills also flourish during play. Group games teach children about teamwork, negotiation, sharing and conflict resolution. They learn how to handle winning and losing, how to communicate feelings and how to respect others. These experiences shape emotional intelligence, empathy and resilience.

Play is also closely linked to mental health. Children who have time to play freely are better able to manage stress and express emotions. Activities like cycling, running or playing with friends release endorphins and reduce anxiety. In contrast, a lack of outdoor time can lead to irritability, inactivity and decreased concentration.

Parents and schools must work together to create more opportunities for active play. Limiting excessive screen time, organizing community playground programmes and making outdoor spaces safe and child-friendly can make a significant difference. Schools should ensure that physical education and outdoor breaks are not sacrificed for academics.

Playgrounds, parks, home gardens and even village grounds can serve as learning spaces. Traditional games such as hopscotch, cricket, tag and ball games build cultural connection and encourage intergenerational bonding. When adults participate or supervise positively, children feel encouraged and secure.

On World Children’s Day, let us reaffirm that play is not separate from learning-it is an integral part of childhood. Giving children the space and freedom to play outdoors helps them grow into healthier, happier and more confident individuals.

Every year, Children’s Day celebrates the boundless potential of our country’s youngest minds. The celebration holds deeper significance, as Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation General Ltd. (SLICGL), the largest government-backed insurer, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, reiterates the solemn pledge to protect over four million schoolchildren through the Suraksha Insurance Scheme.

Suraksha rises above an insurance policy. It is a promise of peace of mind for every family. Watching over children, making certain no family must choose between a child’s health and their education. It is a pledge to every student, regardless of family’s circumstances, can pursue dreams without the shadow of financial hardship.

Even in the event of surgery for children, Suraksha covers students’ hospitalization and surgery costs up to a set annual limit. They are able to continue their education, easing the financial burden on parents. It is a safety net protecting children, supporting families, strengthening the nation’s future, investing in the wellbeing of the next generation.

Launched in 2017 through a visionary collaboration between the Ministry of Education, and SLICGL, the scheme extends free, comprehensive coverage to every student aged 5 to 21 across government schools, government-approved private schools, Pirivena institutions, and assisted special schools. The Government’s unwavering commitment ensures every child can learn, grow, and thrive without the fear that a medical emergency could derail their future.

For parents, Suraksha brings reassurance. The scheme recognizes a family’s stability rests beyond a child’s wellbeing. For low-income households, Suraksha provides life insurance coverage, offering Rs. 75,000 per child should tragedy strike.

In the event of a parent’s passing, the financial benefit helps eases economic burdens and children are able to continue their parents’ dreams through education.

Under the Suraksha banner ‘Protect Forever – The Children of the Nation,’ every child receives comprehensive protection:

Hospitalization cover of Rs. 300,000 for in-patient care

A special outpatient benefit of Rs. 20,000

Critical illness protection up to Rs. 1,500,000

A personal accident cover of Rs. 200,000, including Rs. 150,000 for permanent partial disability and up to Rs. 100,000 for temporary disability.

These numbers offer more than financial protection. They represent hope, resilience and children being able to continue their education despite setbacks.

Understanding families face emergencies at all hours, the Government and SLICGL have upheld support is always within reach. To make access even easier, every student is provided a QR-enabled Suraksha card. For those who prefer personal assistance, over 142 branches and service centers islandwide, from Colombo to even the remotest villages, with a 24/7 hotline affirming help is just a phone call away.

The Government of Sri Lanka and SLICGL recognize protecting the country’s children rises above responsible governance. It is the foundation of our nation’s future prosperity. Maintaining every child can access healthcare without disrupting their education, Suraksha strengthens individual families, and at the same time, the entire fabric of Sri Lankan society.

Parents who once worried about affording emergency care now watch their children study without fear. Students who might have dropped out due to medical expenses continue pursuing their aspirations. Communities which might have seen talented youth lost to circumstance now see those same children fulfilling their potential.

As Children’s Day 2025 is celebrated, Suraksha showcases what is possible when government and institutions unite with a single purpose of safeguarding children’s health, preserving their educational journeys, and upholding families against life’s uncertainties. SLICGL aims to continue the commitment to champion Sri Lanka’s youngest voices to be empowered to shape the country’s future.

Sri Lanka’s hospitality landscape received a remarkable spotlight this year as Browns Hotels and Resorts secured two of the most coveted titles at the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2025, South Asia’s foremost platform celebrating excellence in travel and tourism.

At the gala night held in Colombo on 20th September, Club Hotel Dolphin, Waikkal, was honoured as South Asia’s Leading All-Inclusive Resort, while Occidental Eden Beruwala was crowned South Asia’s Leading Luxury Beach Resort. This dual recognition marked another milestone for Browns Hotels and Resorts, showcasing the diversity and strength of its portfolio, which spans from vibrant family resorts to tranquil beachside retreats.

Located just 20 minutes from Bandaranaike International Airport, Club Hotel Dolphin has become synonymous with all-inclusive holidaying in Sri Lanka and celebrated its second consecutive win as the region’s best all-inclusive resort. The property is home to the country’s largest swimming pool, a pristine stretch of beachfront, and a renowned animation team whose lively entertainment programme has made the resort a favourite among families, couples, and friends. Guests can enjoy expansive buffet spreads, intimate beachfront dining, or creative cocktails crafted by award-winning mixologists. One of the resort’s most cherished hallmarks is its deep connection with guests. Many loyal visitors from around the world have returned over 30 or even 40 times, drawn back by the thoughtful touches of a team that remembers favourite meals and celebrates family milestones. Accepting the award at the gala night, Manoj Perera, Resident Manager of Club Hotel Dolphin, represented the passion and spirit that make the property the island’s largest and most celebrated all-inclusive resort.

On Sri Lanka’s Golden Mile coastline, Occidental Eden Beruwala has long stood as an icon of beachfront luxury. With one of Beruwala’s most expansive stretches of beach, Eden has become a sanctuary for travellers seeking timeless serenity by the sea. The resort brings together world-class dining, thrilling watersports, and holistic spa and wellness experiences, all designed to capture the essence of coastal living while delivering personalised luxury.

Accepting the award on behalf of the property, Occidental Eden Beruwala General Manager Rohan Gamage, acknowledged the dedication of his team in curating experiences that have made Eden one of the island’s most sought-after escapes.

Browns Hotels and Resorts CEO Eksath Wijeratne said: ‘These dual wins are a celebration of our people and our guests. Eden and Dolphin each tell a different story-one of timeless coastal elegance, the other of vibrant all-inclusive energy-but both carry the soul of Sri Lankan hospitality. At Browns Hotels and Resorts, we take pride in creating resorts that are not only celebrated locally but recognised on an international stage for their standards of service, innovation, and guest experience.’

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) Annual Report 2024, themed ‘Redefining Horizons’, has achieved global recognition by taking home the Gold Award amongst five other awards under the Financials – Capital Markets category, at the League of American Communications Professionals LLC (LACP) 2024 Vision Awards.

The CSE had the distinction of holding the award back-to-back having also won the Gold Award for its annual report in 2023.

The report’s compelling design, in-depth content, and innovative presentation earned its five 2024 vision awards including the Gold Award, the Technical Achievement Award, ranked as the Top Ranked Sri Lankan Report, and ranked amongst the Top 100 Reports in the Asia-Pacific Region and Top 100 Reports Worldwide.

The LACP Vision Awards, widely regarded as one of the most prominent platforms for recognising annual reports worldwide, received submissions from leading organisations across the globe.

The Annual Report 2024 captures the CSE’s strategies, achievements, and vision, illustrating its pivotal role in navigating market dynamics while integrating technological advancements and inspiring trust in stakeholders. The recognition reaffirms the CSE’s position as a leading force in Sri Lanka’s financial sector and a benchmark for reporting standards in the region.

CSE Senior Vice President Finance and Admin Kusal Nissanka said that this year’s theme Redefining Horizons reflects the CSE’s support for a year of transition towards a green Sri Lankan economy in line with its vision to create sustainable wealth and value.

The year 2024 saw the CSE initiate Green Bond trading, an innovative financial instrument to raise capital for environmental benefits, and initiate frameworks for Sustainable Bonds including the unique Blue Bonds, tied to protection of Sri Lanka’s diverse marine life.

With a Sri Lankan capital market primed with attractively competitive Price-Earnings ratio in a strengthened economy the CSE continues to innovate in the Sri Lankan capital market. These successive back-to-back awards demonstrate the organisation’s professionalism and dedication to create a transparent and productive capital market inspiring confidence abroad and domestically.

In the intricate tapestry of philanthropy, the Cyril Dharmawardana Foundation (CDF) emerges as a radiant thread, weaving compassion and care into the lives of terminally ill patients in Sri Lanka. Established in 2013 by Cyril’s son BinaraDharmawardana, this Australian-based Non-Profit charity organization holds a singular focus: providing transportation facilities for every single cancer and terminally ill patient during their treatment. Rooted in a vision of dignity and comfort, CDF operates the only state-of-the-art Non-Emergency Ambulance service dedicated to cancer patients in the Developing World.

A Vision Realized

The genesis of CDF finds its roots in the poignant journey of renowned Sri Lankan actor and public figure, Cyril Dharmawardana. Diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer, Cyril underwent treatment in Australia, where he experienced the stark contrast in medical facilities between his host country and his homeland. Witnessing this disparity, Cyril envisioned a service that would extend a compassionate hand to underprivileged communities grappling with poverty-related hardships. Tragically, Cyril Dharmawardana passed away in November 2013. Within a year of his demise, his vision crystallized into the Cyril Dharmawardana Foundation. BinaraDharmawardana, the founder, committed himself to honoring his father’s legacy by providing a crucial service that addressed the unmet needs of terminally ill patients in Sri Lanka.

A Lifeline for the Vulnerable

At the heart of CDF’s mission is the provision of free transportation services for patients between hospitals and their homes during their treatment. Currently operating in the Southern and North Central regions of Sri Lanka, as well as the main Cancer hospital in the Western Province of Colombo, this service is a beacon of hope for those grappling with the challenges of post-treatment journeys. In the Developing World, the reality for many terminally ill patients is a daunting journey home after treatment. Dusty, unhygienic roads and long trips on public transport exacerbate both physical and financial burdens. Some patients, constrained by financial difficulties, resort to lying on hospital floors or forgoing meals to save for bus fare. In response to this dire need, CDF has pioneered a Free Non-Emergency Ambulance service, offering a lifeline to patients by ensuring safe transportation from hospitals to their homes. Beyond the physical comfort it provides, this service shields patients from exposure to infectious diseases prevalent in public transport.

Global Contributions to Cancer Research

CDF’s impact extends beyond immediate patient care; the foundation actively supports the Peter MacCallum Cancer Center, a global leader in cancer research based in Australia. Through volunteer activities at Peter Mac’s fundraisers and annual donations, CDF contributes to breakthrough discoveries and effective treatments for various cancers, benefitting patients worldwide.

Proud Insurance Partner: Continental Insurance

Since 2015, Continental Insurance proudly stands as a partner to the Cyril Dharmawardana Foundation. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to assisting terminally ill patients with their transportation requirements between hospitals and homes during treatment. Regardless of the distance a patient needs to travel, this service is provided free of charge. Continental Insurance plays a vital role in ensuring the sustainability and success of CDF’s endeavors, further solidifying the foundation’s dedication to compassionate care.

Binara Dharmawardana: Steward of Compassion

At the helm of CDF stands Binara Dharmawardana, a visionary leader committed to translating compassion into action. Binara’s journey began with a profound personal experience – witnessing his father’s battle with stage IV lung cancer and the challenges he faced. This personal encounter fueled Binara’s commitment to realizing his father’s vision, providing dignity and comfort to the terminally ill. Under Binara’s leadership, CDF has become synonymous with compassion and care, symbolized by its state-of-the-art non-emergency ambulance service dedicated to cancer patients in the Developing World.

Elite Philanthropy Recognition: Royal Flying Doctor Service Gala

Binara Dharmawardana and the CDF team had the privilege of attending the Royal Flying Doctor Service annual Gala event in Australia. This exclusive event, attended by elite philanthropists, board members, and executive committees, recognized outstanding contributors to CDF in 2022. The gala not only highlighted the impactful initiatives of CDF but also showcased its commitment to excellence and innovation in healthcare services.

A Symphony of Compassion: How to Contribute

To sustain and expand its crucial services, CDF invites individuals and organizations to contribute in various impactful ways:

Sponsoring Operational Costs of Ambulances – Marketing and Advertising: Businesses and individuals can feature their signage or logos on ambulances, aligning with long-term projects and events.

Setting Up a Standing Order: Individuals can make regular contributions, dedicating specific days or periods in memory of loved ones.

Sponsoring an Ambulance: This option allows for personalized dedications or business logos on ambulances, creating a lasting tribute.

Instead of Flowers: Families can honor their loved ones by requesting donations to CDF in lieu of flowers at funerals.

Leave a Bequest in Your Will: Writing a will or part will for a benevolent cause ensures continued support for patients with terminal illnesses.

Organize a Birthday/Anniversary Fundraiser using Online Platforms Such as Facebook: Individuals can leverage online platforms like Facebook to create fundraisers, engaging friends and the wider community in contributing to CDF’s mission.

The Impact of Your Contribution

Contributions to CDF go beyond mere financial transactions; they represent a lifeline for those in desperate circumstances. By supporting CDF, donors contribute to the survival of a vital facility that ensures the highest level of quality care for patients with terminal illnesses during their most vulnerable times. Additionally, these contributions provide employment opportunities for dedicated staff, including ambulance drivers and patient careers, helping their families break free from the cycle of poverty. Donations and investments made to CDF are fully protected by the foundation’s insurance partner, Continental Insurance, and backed by DIMO agents for Mercedes Benz and Toyota in Sri Lanka.

Proud Collaborations: DIMO Lanka Mercedes Benz, Continental Insurance, CMA CGM

Since 2015, DIMO Lanka Mercedes Benz has served as the engineering partner for CDF, contributing their expertise and support. Alongside them, Continental Insurance, also a partner since 2015, has played a crucial role as the insurance partner, ensuring the protection and well-being of CDF’s operations. Adding to this collaborative effort, CMA CGM has been the shipping partner of CDF since 2014, facilitating the logistics and transportation aspects of the foundation’s endeavors. The enduring partnerships with these entities showcase the sustained commitment and support that CDF has garnered from key collaborators in different sectors, reinforcing the foundation’s ability to fulfill its mission effectively.

About Cyril Dharmawardana

Veteran actor and former Southern Provincial Council member Cyril Dharmawardana (67) passed away on November 8, 2013, at the Melbourne Peter Mac Hospital in Australia after battling cancer. Cyril JayatissaDharmawardana, who studied at Richmond College, Galle, made his debut as an actor in Henry Jayasena’s play ‘ManaranjanaWedaWarjana’.

He later acted in stage plays like Makara, ApataPutheMagakNethe, DiriyaMawa, Duwili, etc. but his role as Saranapala in KelaniPalama became the turning point in his career. As a film actor, he displayed his prowess in Walampuri, HimaGira, Mother Teresa, AmmaiDuwai, and other creations apart from tele dramas like Giraya, Bodima, NadeeGeethaya, Hiruta Muwawen (IndiappaKathawa), Siwu Diya Dahara, and several others.

The national theme for World Children’s Day 2025, ‘Protect Us with Love – To Win the World,’ emphasizes the importance of building a safe, loving, and knowledgeable environment for every child.’ Bank of Ceylon has consistently committed to nurturing children’s futures by guiding them the leaders of tomorrow with love and care, while also encouraging them to develop the habit of saving from an early age.

Among BOC’s portfolio of products designed for young savers, the BOC Ran Kekulu Smart Children’s Savings Account remains the most popular children’s savings account in the country. In addition, the bank offers the BOC 18+ Account, which supports youth as they transition into adulthood, along with BOC 14+, and other dedicated savings accounts.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Priyal Silva, Deputy General Manager (Branch Operations) at Bank of Ceylon, said:

‘As the ‘Bankers to the Nation,’ we are committed to providing the next generation, who will bear the responsibility of tomorrow, with a host of benefits. The BOC Ran Kekulu Smart Account has been redesigned in line with evolving needs, combined with modern technology, to remain relevant for young savers. A key feature is the additional 1.5% interest rate above normal savings accounts. Once a child turns 18, the Ran Kekulu Smart Account automatically converts to a Youth Savings Account with the applicable benefits. Furthermore, we introduced the Ran Kekulu Smart Investment Account, which allows weekly, monthly, or quarterly deposits through standing orders. This account also offers an additional 2.5% interest above regular savings.’

Announcing a month of celebrations for World Children’s Day, Bank of Ceylon has also introduced a special cash reward scheme to encourage children’s savings. Accordingly, a cash reward of Rs. 500 will be credited to children’s savings accounts with a fresh deposits from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 10,000, and a cash reward of Rs. 1,000 will be credited to accounts with a fresh deposits exceeding Rs. 10,000, directly to the child’s account.’

The Ran Kekulu Smart Account also provides insurance protection at no extra cost. Children, parents, and guardians are covered under this scheme, which offers up to Rs. 150,000 for accidental injuries and 12 critical illnesses. In the unfortunate event of the death or permanent disability of a parent or guardian up to the age of 65, a benefit of up to Rs. 1 million is paid. To qualify, accounts must maintain a minimum balance of Rs. 50,000 for 12 months. For hospitalization of the child, a minimum balance of Rs. 5,000 for the same period applies.

BOC further supports children’s education and creativity through initiatives such as the annual Ran Kekulu Seminars, conducted across all provinces for Grade 5 Scholarship Examination candidates, and the Punchi Picasso art competition. Each year, 2,000 Ran Kekulu account holders with top marks at the Grade 5 Scholarship Examination are awarded scholarships of Rs. 15,000 each, totaling Rs. 30 million.

Speaking further, Mr. Silva added:

‘Bank of Ceylon has taken significant steps to support both present and future generations through a range of financial products such as savings accounts, fixed deposits, debit cards, and online banking facilities. For senior citizens, we offer the ‘BOC Senior Citizen’ account to provide added benefits for a comfortable retirement. In this way, BOC works to secure the future of children as well as the retirement of elders. We are also committed to introducing innovative financial services to meet evolving national needs.’

For over 86 years, Bank of Ceylon has been a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s financial landscape, connecting individuals and businesses to global opportunities. BOC’s extensive network with over 2,300 touch points spread across the nation, ensures that bank’s customers have convenient access to a wide range of financial services. Moreover BOC was ranked as the top Sri Lankan Bank among the Top 1000 World Banks 2025 and the Banker of the Year 2021, 2023 and 2024 by The Banker Magazine UK, The most valuable Sri Lankan brand by Brand Finance Lanka. BOC also received the People’s Banking Services Brand of the year at the SLIM KANTAR Peoples Awards 2024.Internationally, Bank of Ceylon has established a strong presence in key locations such as a Subsidiary in London, UK; branches in Male and Hulhumalé in the Maldives; Chennai, India; and the Seychelles.

Excited children of all ages rushed to over 31 HNB Customer Centers across the island to participate in mega-celebrations for ‘Singithi Day’ on Saturday 20th September in line with World Children’s Day.

The Singithi Day programme included a number of games and activities such as an art competition, face painting, musical chairs, magic shows, puppet shows and cartoon shows and saw all children enthusiastically taking part in the diverse and fund range of activities of the day.

HNB gave away valuable gifts and prizes to the winners of the games and activities, while every child who took part received a certificate of participation.