Category: Daily Financial Times

Sri Lanka’s largest education exhibition and job fair, EDEX Expo 2026, makes its return this January, offering unparalleled opportunities for students, parents, professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs to shape their futures with confidence. Organised by the Royal College Union since 2004, EDEX has grown into a trusted national platform guided by a powerful vision: ‘Empowering Sri Lankan Youth to be Globally Competitive.’

The Expo opened yesterday and will go on till 18 January 2026 at the BMICH in Colombo, followed by 24 and 25 January 2026 at the Kandy City Centre in Kandy, and will be open to the public from 9.30 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. at both venues.

The Colombo edition will be ceremonially declared open by Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha, reflecting the strong international dimension of the event. With free admission, EDEX Expo brings together state universities, vocational and technical institutions, leading non-state higher education providers and prestigious foreign universities under one roof, creating a dynamic space for exploration, guidance and informed decision-making.

This year’s Expo is set to host over 150 educational institutions and 15 leading corporates, while also offering direct international education opportunities from Canada, France, Japan, Australia and New Zealand. Local universities will showcase diverse pathways to higher education, enabling students to explore study options in destinations such as New Zealand, China, the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia and beyond. Complementing education pathways, the EDEX Job Fair will feature on-site interviews and immediate recruitment opportunities facilitated by top Sri Lankan corporates across sectors including IT, banking, media and culinary arts.

For over two decades, EDEX has been more than an exhibition; it is a movement dedicated to national development. Through initiatives such as EDEX Careers, EDEX Job Fair, EDEX Think Green, EDEX Sithuwam and EDEX Nenapahana, the Expo creates sustainable pathways for education, skills development and career advancement. A key highlight of this year is the Career Key psychometric test, offered through EDEX Careers, which helps individuals identify career paths aligned with their strengths and interests, supporting more fulfilling and purposeful professional journeys.

EDEX Expo 2026 is endorsed by the Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Ministry of Labour and the Ministry of Environment, further reinforcing its national significance. Strategic partners for the event include The Employers’ Federation of Ceylon, The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and the Ceylon Career Guidance Association, strengthening industry alignment and employability outcomes.

EDEX Nenapahana, the Expo’s flagship social responsibility initiative, continues to focus on sustainable development in education, society and the environment. Nenapahana actively empowers young Sri Lankan students through book donations, the establishment of IT laboratories and infrastructure development in rural schools. Recently, Nenapahana collaborated with the Royal College Doctors’ Association to diagnose hearing impairments among primary students in the Kekirawa Educational Zone, recognising that good health is a vital foundation for effective learning. This year, Nenapahana has also partnered with the University of the Visual and Performing Arts to provide a platform for students to showcase their talents through live demonstrations including porcelain throwing, sculpture, drawing and screen printing. In addition, a series of online sessions has been introduced to empower parents to better support their children’s education, with the inaugural session conducted on 3rd January by child and adolescent psychiatrist Prof. Myuru Chandradasa, drawing strong participation.

EDEX Sithuwam continues its commitment to nurturing creativity through its 2026 All-Island Art Competition, conducted with the endorsement of the Ministry of Education. With over 10,000 entries received from across the country, the competition also ensures inclusivity through a dedicated deaf category, now conducted for the third consecutive year. Reflecting the evolving role of technology, Sithuwam also promotes responsible innovation, with an AI-assisted art competition being held for the second consecutive year to encourage students to use artificial intelligence productively and creatively.

Meanwhile, the Think Green and Entrepreneurship teams have collaborated to conduct an integrated entrepreneurship development program aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs for participation in the globally emerging green economy. Business consultants, Government institutions supporting entrepreneurship development, financial institutions, ISO consultants and ERP solution providers will collectively guide participants through the full entrepreneurship development cycle, supporting the sustainable growth of business concepts developed by Sri Lankan youth and existing entrepreneurs.

EDEX Chairman Mahinda Galagedara said: ‘EDEX was built on the foundation of helping young Sri Lankan students and their families during times of their lives when much is defined for their future.’

Project Chairman Sumeda Karunaratne said: ‘Whether you are a student pursuing O/Levels or A/Levels, a parent guiding a child to the next level, or an individual looking for a career change, EDEX brings you valuable insights and opportunities that can truly bring about a positive impact.’

Project Secretary Nadun Hettiarachchi added, ‘EDEX is much more than an exhibition. It is a platform for empowerment that encourages visitors to engage, ask questions and make informed choices about their future.’

All-rounders Dunith Wellalage and Milan Rathnayake who were left out of the Sri Lanka team for the three-match ODI series in Pakistan have been recalled for the three-match ODI series against England starting at the R Premadasa International Cricket Stadium on 22 January.

The squad picked for the series sees only a few changes from the one that lost to Pakistan 3-0.

Opener Lahiru Udara who was a member of that squad has been left out along with fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera, who as a precautionary measure did not play in the third T20I against Pakistan at Dambulla on 11 January due to a groin strain.

Charith Asalanka will lead Sri Lanka in the series.

The probable Sri Lanka squad: Charith Asalanka (captain), Kusal Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Pathum Nissanka, Pavan Rathnayake, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Eshan Malinga, Pramod Madushan, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay.

Forty two-year-old heritage firm from the Central Province, Sun Match Company, has announced that is brand Soorya was made Silver Sponsor of the Jaffna International Trade Fair 2026. The three-day event will be held in Jaffna from 23-25 January 2026.

Popularly known as the Jaffna International Trade Fair (JITF) the annual event is one of the Northern region’s most anticipated commercial gatherings, bringing together businesses, entrepreneurs and consumers to showcase products, services and innovations while strengthening regional economic ties across Sri Lanka. Soorya, a trusted household brand and a familiar presence in Jaffna homes for generations, has long been synonymous with quality and everyday convenience. Sun Match Company’s sponsorship underscores the brand’s commitment to reinforcing its regional engagement and supporting local communities. ‘Soorya is built on quality, reliability and everyday convenience,’ said Sun Match Company Executive Director Gowri Rajan. ‘Our participation in the Jaffna International Trade Fair (JITF) reflects our vision to connect with communities across Sri Lanka, strengthen regional engagement and continue delivering products that meet the evolving needs of our customers.’

Visitors to the trade fair are invited visit the Soorya Stall Nos. 18 and 115 to explore the brand’s full product range and experience the company’s focus on customer-focused innovation and practical everyday solutions. Through its support of the Jaffna International Trade Fair 2026, Sun Match Company reaffirms its mission to be a brand for all Sri Lankans – committed to lighting up homes, livelihoods and communities today and for generations to come.

High scoring featured three of the six matches while two of them saw teams grabbing a first innings lead at the end of the first day of the Tier B 3-day league yesterday.

On top of the pile was Kandy Customs SC who went on a run spree against Colombo Malays CC at the BRC grounds piling up a massive 414-9 declared. A feature of their batting was the brilliant knock of 196 off 172 balls (20 fours, 7 sixes) by the captain Malindu Maduranga who featured in two noteworthy partnerships of 93 off 96 balls for the first wicket with Ashan Randika (27) and 179 off 168 balls for the third with Avindu Theekshana (71 off 94 balls, 8 fours, 2 sixes). Dilan Jayalath chipped in with 63* off 85 balls (2 fours, 3 sixes) as Kandy Customs SC raced past the 400-run mark with ease. Left-arm spinner Sudara Dakshina took 4/94. Colombo Malays CC replied with 15 without loss by stumps.

At the Panadura esplanade, United Southern SC fought back from losing their first four wickets for 47 to end the day in a happier frame of mind at 328-9 against Sebastianites. The recovery was brought about by Kavindu Ediriweera (129* off 252 balls, 14 fours, 1 six) and skipper Denuwan Rajakaruna (83 off 80 balls, 8 fours, 4 sixes) who added 101 for the seventh wicket.

Leo CC did well to dismiss Galle CC for 314 at Welisara. Galle CC were well placed at 210-3 to reach an imposing total, but lost their way losing the last seven wickets for 104. Ramesh Nimantha (99 off 202 balls, 10 fours) and Subhanu Rajapaksa (51 off 60 balls, 3 fours, 2 sixes) shored up the top order only to see their good work become undone. Spinners Mangala Pradeep and Malshan Gunasinghe shared eight wickets between them. Leo CC were 11 without loss at the close.

Moratuwa SC and Ragama CC have already taken a first innings lead in their respective matches. Moratuwa SC rolled over Negombo CC for 120 at the De Soysa Stadium, and by stumps had replied with 127-2. Left-arm spinners Gayan Sirisoma (4/40) and Methushan Thilina (3/19) accounted for the wickets.

Ragama CC’s left-arm pace cum spin combination of Tharusha Kodikara (5/40) and Upul Indrasiri (4/8) shot out Navy SC for 77 at Salawa Army grounds, Kosagama. By the close Ragama CC had replied with 129-3 courtesy fifties from Sahil Dias (51* off 122 balls, 6 fours) and Ranmith Jayasena (54 off 69 balls, 6 fours, 1 six) who shared a stand of 90.

Table leaders SSC came back strongly to grab six Army SC wickets for 43 runs to dismiss them for 233 at the SLLDC grounds, Kirimandala. At one point Army SC were well placed at 190-4 with Chrisen Aponsu contributing 75 off 132 balls (5 fours), but SSC’s varied attack with Kasun Rajitha (3/58) and Nipun Dananjaya (3/31) kneaded into their batting. By stumps SSC scored 67-1 to trail by 166.

All the matches will continue on the second day today.

MTI Consulting was engaged to conduct a performance review of the Industrial Development Corporation of Zimbabwe and to develop turnaround strategies, which have now been successfully concluded.

Mutapa Investment Fund CEO Dr. John Mangudya said, ‘The assignment benefitted from the active participation and strategic guidance of the leadership of the Mutapa Investment Fund and SERA (State Enterprises Restructuring Agency). We are pleased with the outcome and approach of MTI Consulting.’

SERA Executive Director Onesimo Musi said, ‘In developing these strategies, MTI’s robust approach included stakeholder feedback from Zimbabwe’s industrial and non-bank financial institution (NBFI) sectors, along with best-fit practices drawn from the region’s top-performing Industrial Development Corporations.’

The Mutapa Investment Fund is Zimbabwe’s sovereign wealth fund, managing a portfolio of 66 companies across natural resources, energy, infrastructure, industrials, financial services, and real estate. SERA (State Enterprises Restructuring Agency) is the Government body responsible for the reform of state enterprises and parastatals.

HDFC Bank has appointed Sujeewa Ranawaka to its Board as Non-Executive, Non-Independent Director.

Ranawaka is a Chartered Civil Engineer with nearly three decades of service in infrastructure development, coastal resource management, and public-sector engineering administration. He is a Special Grade senior officer of Sri Lanka Engineering Service (SLES) currently serves as the Director General (Housing and Construction) at the Ministry of Housing, Construction and Water Supply. He started his career as an Instructor of Civil Engineering Department of University of Moratuwa in 1995.

Eng. Ranawaka has over 30 years of experience, during which period he has held the position Director General/Head of the Department of the Coast Conservation and Coastal Resource Management Department of Sri Lanka. He has obtained his school education from K/Sri Palee Maha Vidyalaya -Horana. After entering the University of Moratuwa, he graduated as an Engineer with BSc (Hons) in Engineering in 1995.

After graduation, he served for about a year as an Instructor at the University of Moratuwa before joining the State Engineering Corporation of Sri Lanka as a Site Engineer. In January 1997, he entered the Government service through the Sri Lanka Engineering Service, joining the Coast Conservation Department. During his tenure, he served in multiple capacities including Regional Engineer (South and West), Senior Engineer (Research and Design), Chief Engineer (Works), and Additional Director General (Engineering).

Eng. Ranawaka obtained his Master’s degree (MSc) in Marine Technology from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Norway, in 2001. He has been a Chartered Engineer since 2002, a Fellow Member of the Institution of Engineers Sri Lanka (IESL), and an Associate Member of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE).

His academic and professional contributions include several international research publications on shoreline management, coastal erosion, and the application of remote sensing and GIS in coastal dynamics. Technically proficient in coastal modelling (MIKE 21, COMCOT), GIS and remote sensing applications (ArcGIS, ERDAS, Global Mapper), project planning tools (MS Project, Excel), and AutoCAD, Eng. Ranawaka continues to play a pivotal role in advancing Sri Lanka’s housing, coastal protection, and sustainable urban development sectors through innovation, sound engineering judgment, and effective institutional leadership.

Eng. Ranawaka possesses extensive expertise in FIDIC-based contract administration, project governance, policy formulation, and multidisciplinary coastal development, having successfully contributed numerous national and donor-funded projects in collaboration with international agencies such as UNDP, ADB, FAO, IFAD, UNESCO-IHE, the World Bank, and SAARC.

Eng. Ranawaka has represented Sri Lanka in over 25 international workshops and forums, including those organised by the US NAVY Indo-Pacific Command, World Bank, UNESCO-IHE, and Tokyo University, focusing on civil engineering, climate resilience, and environmental governance.

Sri Lanka’s apparel industry made a strong and impactful presence at Source Fashion London 2026, held from 13 to 15 January at Olympia London, reinforcing the country’s position as a reliable and competitive global sourcing destination.

The Sri Lanka Pavilion, comprising 20 stalls and featuring leading apparel manufacturers including 12 small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), was organised by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) in collaboration with the Sri Lanka High Commission in the UK. The initiative aimed to identify new buyers and strengthen Sri Lanka’s apparel exports to the UK market.

The participation was particularly significant as Sri Lankan garment exports gained duty-free access to the UK market from 1 January 2026. Under the newly liberalised trade framework, Sri Lankan manufacturers are now permitted to source up to 100% of inputs from any country worldwide while continuing to enjoy duty-free entry into the UK.

The revised rules remove earlier constraints, including the requirement for two substantial manufacturing processes to be carried out locally, thereby enhancing flexibility, competitiveness, and cost efficiency for exporters.

The exhibition was ceremonially inaugurated on 13 January, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Sri Lanka Pavilion attended by Sri Lankan High Commissioner to the UK Nimal Senadheera, UK Trade Envoy to Sri Lanka Lord Hannett of Everton, and EDB Board Director Binupa Liyanage, along with invitees, Sri Lankan exhibitors, and officials from the High Commission and the EDB.

The pavilion showcased exhibitors from the apparel, textile, and accessories sectors, highlighting Sri Lanka’s diverse manufacturing capabilities and strong adherence to international quality, ethical, and sustainability standards. A dedicated stall promoting Creative Sri Lanka 2030 was also featured, providing a platform for five Sri Lankan creative industry brands to display their products. The initiative underscored Sri Lanka’s innovation, craftsmanship, and design excellence while creating new opportunities for creative sector brands to engage with international buyers.

A key highlight of the event was the unveiling of Sri Lanka’s National Export Brand, ‘Your Vital Island,’ on the opening day. Built on the core values of sustainability, competence, and authenticity, the brand represents the essence of Sri Lanka’s export offerings and marked a significant milestone for the national export sector.

In addition to the main exhibition, several parallel events-including catwalk sessions, panel discussions, and guest speaker forums-added further vibrancy. Selected products from Sri Lankan companies were featured in catwalk shows, offering enhanced visibility among international buyers and fashion industry stakeholders.

Demonstrating Sri Lanka’s readiness to meet the evolving demands of the global apparel industry, Star Garments Ltd., Director Operations and Sri Lanka Apparel Exporters Association Deputy Chairman Jeevith Senaratne, participated as a panellist at a discussion titled ‘Intelligent Fashion – Using AI to Design, Plan, and Produce Better.’

He highlighted Sri Lanka’s forward-looking approach and growing adoption of advanced technologies in apparel manufacturing.

As the apex organisation for export development and promotion, the EDB continues to pursue innovative strategies to strengthen Sri Lanka’s global market presence.

The country’s successful participation at Source Fashion London 2026 reflects this commitment, with a clear focus on expanding apparel exports to the UK by leveraging the UK Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) and positioning Sri Lanka as a sustainable, ethical, and competitive sourcing destination.

Wichy Plantation Company Ltd., has commissioned South Asia’s first Tetra Recart R2 production line, marking a transformational milestone for Sri Lanka’s food processing and export sectors.

This strategic investment positions the country at the forefront of sustainable packaging innovation while future-proofing compliance with incoming European Union regulations.

Since pioneering coconut milk exports from Sri Lanka in 1984, Wichy has consistently led industry innovation. The new Tetra Recart R2 line represents the latest evolution in this four-decade journey, transitioning from traditional retortable formats to next-generation, paper-based packaging that delivers superior sustainability credentials alongside enhanced product quality and consumer convenience.

‘Wichy has always been a trendsetter,’ said Wardena Venture Holdings, Wichy’s parent company Chairman Ashoka Siriwardena. ‘We take great pride in exporting Sri Lankan products that are far superior in quality, safety, and value. Innovation is at the very core of our value system and remains central to everything we do,’ he further added.

The facility introduces critical capabilities ahead of 2027 EU food-contact regulations, including BPA-related requirements. Beyond regulatory compliance, the investment delivers unprecedented operational flexibility through three independent fillers capable of combining liquid, semi-liquid, and solid products in a single pass-an industry-leading feature that significantly expands product development possibilities.

‘This investment brings next-generation technology that enables us to compete with global giants in any market,’ explained Group CEO and Executive Director Indika Perera. ‘This strategic move will undoubtedly accelerate Wichy’s journey toward becoming the number one exporter of coconut and food products from Sri Lanka.’

Tetra Pak’s flagship retortable carton solution offers substantial advantages over conventional tin cans and glass jars: extended shelf life, improved recyclability, reduced carbon footprint, and superior transport efficiency. The packaging’s easy-open, re-close functionality addresses evolving consumer preferences in sustainability-driven markets across Europe and beyond.

‘This milestone reflects Wichy’s leadership and relentless drive to innovate,’ said Tetra Pak South Asia Managing Director Cassio Simoes. ‘Together, we’ve introduced South Asia’s first Tetra Recart solution for coconut-based products-advancing our shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and a future-ready industry.’

Significantly, the facility’s impact extends beyond Wichy’s operations. Through co-packing partnerships, Sri Lankan exporters across multiple categories-including fruits, vegetables, seafood, and ready meals-gain access to world-class packaging technology without substantial capital investment.

The project was executed entirely through in-house expertise, reflecting Wichy’s deep technical capabilities. ‘People are at the heart of our journey toward greatness,’ emphasised Group HR Director Sarath Jayasinghe. ‘The planning, preparation, and execution of this milestone were driven entirely by in-house expertise and capability.’

Operating under internationally recognised certifications including BRCGS AA+, IFS, BSCI, SEDEX, Fairtrade, and Naturland, Wichy maintains preferred supplier status with major global retailers. The company has earned numerous national distinctions including Presidential Export Awards and NCE Export Awards.

‘Driven by consumer and market data, this investment represents a proactive commitment to the future,’ stated Sector CEO Charithra Hettiarachchi. ‘This move future-proofs our business while reinforcing our promise to deliver innovative, compliant, and sustainable solutions to global markets.’

As Sri Lanka advances its position in global value chains, Wichy’s Tetra Recart R2 commissioning demonstrates how strategic innovation, sustainability focus, and technical excellence can elevate national industries to international leadership.

Post-apocalyptic horror film ’28 Years Later: The Bone Temple’ will be screened in seven cinemas in Sri Lanka from today.

They are Kandy City Centre, Scope Cinemas – Colombo City Centre, Scope Cinemas – Havelock City Mall, PVR Cinema, Ram Cinema, Lite Cinemas, and Regal Cinemas.

Directed by Nia DaCosta and written by Alex Garland, the film was shot back-to-back with its predecessor 28 Years Later (2025), and serves as the fourth instalment overall in the 28 Days Later film series. The film stars Ralph Fiennes, Jack O’Connell, Alfie Williams, Erin Kellyman, and Chi Lewis-Parry.

Taking place after the events of the previous film, Spike is inducted into Sir Jimmy Crystal’s gang of acrobatic killers in a post-apocalyptic Britain ravaged by the Rage Virus. Meanwhile, Dr. Ian Kelson forms a new relationship with potentially world-changing consequences.

Ideal Motors, is continuing its countrywide service camp series dedicated to Mahindra vehicles.

The initiative demonstrates the company’s commitment to delivering superior service and providing optimal performance for Mahindra customers throughout the country.

The primary objective of the service camps is to enhance vehicle quality and reliability, diagnosing and providing expert repairs, and supplying genuine spare parts. All service camps are offered free of charge to Mahindra vehicle owners, with customers also benefiting from up to 15% discounts on spare parts.

The campaign is structured in two parts such as the Mahindra Bolerofocused camps and camps open to all Mahindra vehicles.

Since the launch of the series, the camps have reached communities around Sri Lanka.

The first Bolero service camp was held at Liyanage Motors in Mathugama in June, followed by sessions in Puttalam and Akkaraipattu. Camps for all Mahindra vehicles have already been successfully conducted in Habarana, Udawalawe, Panama, Mandaram Nuwara, and Sandathenna.

In November, service camps were hosted at Ideal Motors Monaragala, Weligama Motors in Ampara, and Belihuloya for Bolero vehicles.

The December’s schedule began with a camp at Dheerasekara Auto Court in Matara on 15 December, followed by a dedicated session for Scorpio jeeps used by police stations on 16 December. The most recent camps were held on 17 December at Ideal Motors Kurunegala and on 18 December at Senanayake Auto Service, Yapahuwa.

Stepping into 2026, Ideal Motors said it has planned 15 additional service camps through March 2026, ensuring Mahindra customers around the country continue to receive expert care and support.