Nirosh De Silva has been elected President of the Japan Sri Lanka Technical and Cultural Association (JASTECA) for the 2026-2028 term at the Association’s 40th Annual General Meeting held recently.
His election marks a new chapter for JASTECA, with a renewed focus on innovation, Japanese management excellence, professional development, youth engagement and stronger collaboration between Sri Lanka and Japan.
Established in 1984, JASTECA plays an important role in strengthening bilateral relations by promoting Japanese management practices, technical knowledge, cultural understanding and business cooperation. The Association also supports the development of Sri Lankan professionals through training opportunities facilitated by the Association for Overseas Technical Cooperation and Sustainable Partnerships (AOTS) in Japan.
Under the new leadership, JASTECA aims to further expand its contribution to Sri Lanka’s industrial and economic development by promoting the principles of Kaizen (continuous improvement), 5S, Lean Management and operational excellence, alongside digitalisation, environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices, and sustainable business development.
A key priority will be to connect traditional Japanese management philosophies with modern business innovation and emerging technologies, enabling Sri Lankan organisations to enhance productivity, quality, competitiveness and sustainability in an increasingly challenging global business environment.
The new administration also intends to strengthen professional development opportunities for AOTS alumni, encourage greater participation by young professionals, and create stronger platforms for knowledge-sharing between industry leaders, academics, entrepreneurs and Japanese partners. Revitalising youth-focused initiatives and expanding corporate engagement are expected to be important elements of this effort.
JASTECA’s National Awards program will continue to provide a platform for recognising organisations and professionals that demonstrate excellence in Japanese management practices, particularly in 5S, Kaizen, corporate social responsibility and ESG. These initiatives are intended to encourage a culture of continuous improvement and recognise practical innovations that contribute to organisational and national development.
The Association will also seek to deepen its engagement with the Embassy of Japan in Sri Lanka, AOTS, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), Japan Sri Lanka business council and other institutional partners to create further opportunities for technical cooperation, professional exchange and bilateral trade.
With a professional background spanning human resource development, and organisational development, De Silva brings extensive corporate experience to the presidency. His leadership is expected to place particular emphasis on strengthening institutional governance, enhancing member engagement and translating the Association’s objectives into practical, measurable outcomes.
The 2026-2028 term will focus on building a more connected and future-oriented JASTECA, one that preserves the enduring values of Japanese management while embracing innovation, sustainability and digital transformation.
Through closer cooperation between Sri Lankan and Japanese stakeholders, JASTECA aims to reinforce the longstanding friendship between the two countries and contribute to a more productive, innovative and globally competitive Sri Lankan economy.