Air Pollution Reduces Bangladesh’s Average Life Expectancy by 5.5 years: Report

Arecent Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) report by the University of Chicago’s Energy Policy Institute found that air pollution reduces Bangladesh’s average life expectancy by 5.5 years, making it the greatest external threat to life expectancy and more impactful than smoking or malnutrition.

To address this critical issue, the Center for Atmospheric Pollution Studies (CAPS), in collaboration with the National Alliance on Cities for Children and Youth and Save the Children in Bangladesh, organized a two-day training program titled ‘Air Action Leaders: From Data to Impact – Training on Air Quality Monitoring and Report Writing’ on 28-29 August in Dhaka recently.

The workshop aimed to enhance the skills of youth in air quality monitoring and report preparation, combining important theoretical modules with practical, hands-on training.

The youth mobilization partners for this program included Prochesta Foundation, Amrai Agami, and the Youth Foundation of Bangladesh.

Jonathan’s Tenure, A Disaster – Presidency

The Presidency has attacked former President Goodluck Jonathan over speculation that he may contest the 2027 presidential election, describing his six years in office as a disaster.

There have been renewed calls, particularly from the North, urging Jonathan to return to the presidential race as coalition efforts to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027 gain momentum.

Several PDP leaders, including former Jigawa Governor Sule Lamido and Bauchi State Governor Senator Bala Mohammed, have publicly called on the Bayelsa-born politician to run.

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Last week, Jonathan visited the African Democratic Congress (ADC) National Chairman, Senator David Mark at his Abuja residence.

Mark was Senate President during the administration of Jonathan between 2010-2015.

While the ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, told Daily Trust the visit was private, observers believe it could be linked to 2027 permutations, with the ADC said to be considering the acceptability of a Jonathan candidacy.

Jonathan, who lost his re-election bid to Muhammadu Buhari in 2015, is believed to be showing renewed interest in the political arena.

Though he has yet to declare formally, his appeal, according to insiders, lies in the constitutional term-limit provision that allows him to serve only one more term-a prospect seen as a strategic option in balancing the power rotation debate between North and South.

During the PDP state congress in Niger at the weekend, former Minister of Information Professor Jerry Gana said Jonathan would contest and could even defeat the ruling APC in 2027.

That remark appeared to trigger a sharp response from the Presidency.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in a statement on Monday, described Jonathan’s tenure as a disaster, while stressing that he is free to run.

‘President Tinubu will wholeheartedly welcome him if he decides to enter the race. But Jonathan will have his date in court. The jury will determine whether Jonathan, who was sworn in twice as president, satisfies constitutional requirements and is eligible to contest the presidency and be sworn in, if successful, for a third term,’ Onanuga said.

He accused Gana of attempting to draft Jonathan into the race on the platform of the ‘discredited’ PDP, which he said left behind ‘economic ruins after 16 years of bad governance.’

‘Gana even deluded himself, asserting that the former president would defeat Tinubu to reclaim power after 12 years. He is free to engage in his usual comedy; after all, Jonathan’s entering the race would provide another job for the Niger State-born former university don.’

He said politicians like Jerry Gana only want to lure him into the race to satisfy their interests.

‘However, we should caution former President Jonathan to be wary of the PDP sugar-coated cheerleaders. Politicians of Jerry Gana’s ilk merely want to lure him into the race to satisfy their personal, political, religious, and ethnic interests. They will abandon him midstream, as they did in 2015, and leave Gentleman Jonathan in the lurch,’ he added.

The Presidency maintained Jonathan would have to convince Nigerians that he had anything new to offer ‘after his disastrous six years, for which they voted him out in 2015.’

Onanuga also revisited Jonathan’s record, accusing his administration of lacking any clear economic agenda, engaging in frivolous spending, and running the country into crisis.

He said, ‘Shorn of all those selfish considerations for which some PDP big guns find his candidacy appealing, President Jonathan will also have his encounter with the people as to whether he has anything new to offer after his disastrous six years, for which they voted him out in 2015.

‘The nation’s economic downturn, which President Tinubu is working very hard to overcome, actually began under President Jonathan. The Jonathan administration severely damaged the economy, and all key indicators declined under his watch.

‘Under him, the so-called business moguls allocated foreign exchange to import fuel, simply pocketing the dollars without importing anything. Some of those big men still have court cases on the issue today.

‘Jonathan and his National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd), freely distributed security funds to friends and cronies.’

According to Onanuga, in 2010, President Jonathan inherited a total of $66 billion, of which $46 billion was in foreign reserves and $20 billion in the noble-but-abused Excess Crude Account.

‘By 2015, when the people democratically removed him from office, the foreign reserves had fallen below $30 billion, and the Excess Crude Account had been depleted to $2 billion, despite generating record revenue from crude oil sales that the country had never achieved in more than 25 years combined.

‘It is on record that between 2010 and 2013, crude oil sold for an average of $100 per barrel. By December 2014, however, the Jonathan-led Federal Government could no longer pay salaries to Federal Civil Servants. At least 28 states across the country owed workers huge salary arrears.’

By contrast, he said, President Tinubu has taken bold decisions in the past 28 months to reset the economy, including removing the ‘ruinous’ fuel subsidy and abolishing multiple exchange rates.

‘The President has stabilised the economy. In Q2 2025, GDP grew by 4.23 per cent, the highest in four years and above the IMF’s 3.4 per cent projection. Inflation dropped to 20.12 per cent in August 2025, the lowest in three years. Foreign reserves stand at $42.03 billion. The naira has stabilised, investor confidence is back, and investors are betting on Nigeria,’ he said.

Onanuga also cited infrastructure projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Highway, alongside security interventions in parts of the country.

‘The PDP and its co-travellers broke the economy; Tinubu is fixing it. Jonathan and others are welcome to the 2027 race, but Nigerians will not allow them to return and run it down again,’ he said.

Jonathan has yet to respond to the latest criticism. Since losing the 2015 election, his administration has been a frequent target of APC attacks, though he has previously defended his record on corruption and the economy.

From newsroom to boardroom: Wafula’s path to CEO

From his early days as a journalist to his new role as Group chief executive officer of Fireworks Advertising, Walter Wafula has demonstrated his ability to adapt, innovate, and lead.

In July 2025, the Board of Directors at Fireworks Advertising, under the chairmanship of Manwa Magoma, appointed forty-three-year-old Walter Wafula as Group chief executive officer to drive the agency’s growth.

His appointment was a significant development that resonated throughout Uganda’s marketing and communications industry.

The news was met with excitement and anticipation, given Wafula’s impressive background and expertise in public relations and digital marketing.

‘I attribute my career growth to the foundation laid by my parents, as well as mentors; Caleb Owino, the founder of Fireworks Advertising and Muhereza Kyamutetera, a former colleague who persuaded me to join the agency,’ Wafula said.

Walter Wafula’s story is one of passion, dedication, and excellence. From his early days as a journalist to his new role as Group CEO of Fireworks Advertising, Wafula has demonstrated his ability to adapt, innovate, and lead.

Growing up in Bugiri District, as a child, Wafula was exposed to the harsh realities of poverty and limited opportunities in Eastern Uganda.

But his parents’ business acumen and hard work instilled in him a strong work ethic and inspired him to join the business world.

His entrepreneurial journey began in 2009 with a small startup called Evolution Solutions Limited, which he founded, to empower young people with digital knowledge and skills, enabling them to harness digital opportunities.

Through Evolution, Wafula empowered over 300 young people in Bugiri, Iganga and Wakiso districts, with basic computer digital skills, preparing them for a competitive digital future.

His efforts were recognised when he won the Young Achievers Award in the ICT Category for his innovative startup. As his career demands increased, Wafula chose to focus on excellence in media and communications, closely following in the footsteps of his father, Wafula Oguttu, the founder of Monitor Publications Limited.

Wafula’s experience in journalism exposed him to the world of public relations, sparking an interest in establishing a public relations firm.

In 2010, he established Evolution Media, taking on international assignments from clients like Superbrands East Africa in Kenya and Instinct Wave in the United Kingdom.

Professional journey

Wafula began his professional career at Daily Monitor (NMG Uganda), where he honed his writing skills from 2005 to 2011.

He worked as a writer at the Business and Features desks, showcasing his excellence in storytelling. Concurrently, he contributed to Bizcommunity.com, a South African online publication, and DE Magazine in Germany.

His desire for growth and a better experience in the public relations industry led him to transition from Monitor Publications as a business writer to Fireworks Advertising as a Public Relations (PR) manager.

He then progressed to become a PR manager, head of practice – PR at Fireworks Advertising from 2011 to 2015, leveraging his expertise in PR.

In 2015, Wafula was appointed business unit head, Brainchild Burson-Marsteller, playing a pivotal role in securing global recognition for the agency. He was later appointed general manager, Brainchild Burson, where he developed PR and digital campaigns that drove client success.

His leadership and innovativeness earned him international acclaim, including a win at the CEO Today Africa Awards, while brainchild Burson was named the Best PR and Digital Agency in Uganda at the Africa Excellence Awards by MEA Markets in the UK.

Continuing the winning streak last year, the agency scooped Best PR Campaign and won Gold for Best Use of Influencer Marketing, for the launch of the iconic Uganda Waragi Lemon and Ginger gin, at the UMEA and Silverback Awards, respectively.

Throughout his career, Wafula has demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise in public relations, digital marketing, and innovation.

Wafula’s story serves as a testament to the power of entrepreneurship, determination, and the pursuit of excellence.

Enabling excellence

Today, as Group CEO of Fireworks Advertising, he is prioritising excellence, collaboration, and innovation to drive the agency’s growth in East Africa.

His vision is to transform the advertising firm into East Africa’s most innovative marketing group.

‘Excellence is not just a goal but a fundamental principle that drives the organisation forward,’ Wafula emphasizes.

‘By striving for excellence, Fireworks delivers captivating work that not only satisfies our clients but also brings pride to our staff.’

Wafula’s leadership style is characterised by his ability to inspire and motivate his team to be exceptional.

‘I believe in empowering my team to excel by challenging them to think and act differently as well as training them to be the best versions of themselves,’ he says.

He also acknowledges his team’s great work that keeps clients satisfied and the business growing.

‘Our people remain our greatest asset. Without them, we wouldn’t be here.’

This approach has enabled the agency to stay ahead of the curve and deliver innovative marketing campaigns that meet the evolving needs of its clients.

As the business landscape continues evolving, Wafula’s commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation will remain essential for Fireworks’ continued success and relevance.

‘If you do the same thing over and over, you get bored and even the people you serve get tired,’ Wafula notes, saying: ‘It is essential to reinvent how we do things so that we can remain relevant as an organisation in the ever-changing digital world.’

Over the last 17 years, Fireworks, has established a reputation of creativity, professionalism, and reliability. This has enabled the agency to attract new clients and build long-term relationships with its clients while driving growth.

Finding balance in a busy life

Wafula believes that dedicating time to personal life and family is essential for his well-being and productivity.

‘I allocate time for my family, friends, and spiritual growth, recognising that a balanced life is key to achieving success in both personal and professional spheres,’ he shares.

As a father and husband, Wafula recognises the importance of being present for his loved ones.

‘Attending important events and milestones in my children’s lives, and supporting my wife in her endeavours, is a must-do,’ he adds.

His approach serves as a reminder that achieving success is not just about professional accomplishments, but also about nurturing personal relationships and taking care of one’s well-being.

Uganda lines up 55 witnesses in ex-ADF leader Jamilu Mukulu’s terrorism case

Uganda’s High Court on Monday ordered the long-awaited trial of former Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) commander Jamilu Mukulu to begin this week, with prosecutors lining up 55 witnesses to testify against him and 29 co-accused.

A panel of four judges said the trial will open Wednesday, nearly a decade after Mukulu was arrested in Tanzania and extradited to Uganda.

‘I have heard the submissions of both counsels. The balancing of the arms of justice requires a quick and expeditious resolution of this matter, but it should also be noted that in the interest of justice this matter should be heard on its merits,’ said Justice Michael Elubu, who led the bench.

Other judges are Stephen Mubiru, Andrew Bashaija and Susan Okalany. They rejected defence requests to dismiss the charges.

Mukulu, accused of leading the Islamist-inspired ADF rebel group, faces multiple counts of terrorism. The case has dragged on through years of adjournments and pre-trial hearings.

During Monday’s session, defence lawyers raised complaints about Mukulu’s treatment in detention.

‘Our client is denied food from his family, yet other inmates are allowed. He is forced to buy food at three times the market price and is kept in a cell without ventilation, feasted on by mosquitoes. He is also not allowed sunlight,’ said defence counsel Kasumba.

The judges ordered prison authorities to respond by Wednesday and advised the defence to file a formal complaint with the Uganda Human Rights Commission.

‘This court will hear from both sides in the interest of justice. Institutions like the Human Rights Commission have visitation rights to prisons and can file reports to assist the court,’ Justice Elubu said.

The ADF, originally a Ugandan rebel group, has been blamed for deadly attacks in both Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Mukulu’s trial is one of the most high-profile terrorism cases in Uganda in recent years.

Case background

Mukulu, jointly charged with 37 others, faces 20 counts, including terrorism, murder, aggravated robbery, attempted murder, and belonging to a terrorist organisation.

According to the indictment, Mukulu is introduced as the leader of the ADF and the Salaf Muslim community in Uganda, accused of issuing orders to his co-accused to carry out murders and robberies in Bugiri, Tororo, Namayingo, Kampala, Wakiso, Jinja, Mbale, Budaka and other districts.

He is further indicted for the murders of two Muslim clerics, Sheikhs Dakitoor Muwaya and Yunus Abubakar Mandanga, in Mayuge and Bugiri, respectively, as well as the killing of two police officers, Muzamir Babale and Karim Tenywa, attached to Bugiri Police Station. The group is also alleged to have robbed firearms, ammunition, money, and other property.

Prosecution, led by Assistant DPP Jatiko, contends that the offences were committed with social, political, economic or religious aims ‘in order to cause fear and panic among members of the public and government at large.’

Aitken Spence Travels South Asia’s best

Aitken Spence Travels once again demonstrated its industry leadership by winning South Asia’s Best Inbound Travel Agent and Best Cruise Travel Agent for the third consecutive year at the 9th annual South Asian Travel Awards (SATA), held recently at a glittering gala in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

In addition, SATA honoured the late Chairman, Deshamanya D.H.S. (Harry) Jayawardena, with the prestigious ‘Faces of South Asia’ recognition award for his invaluable contribution to Sri Lanka’s tourism and hospitality industry.

Aitken Spence PLC Chairperson Stasshani Jayawardena added, ‘These awards highlight Aitken Spence Travels’ growing influence not just in Sri Lanka but in the region as well. With our continued support and commitment, Travels is well positioned to set new benchmarks, drive innovation, and expand its global footprint while showcasing Sri Lanka as a world class destination. I look forward to seeing its leadership inspire progress not just locally, but across the region.’ Aitken Spence Travels Managing Director Nalin Jayasundera, said, ‘Securing these top awards of Best Inbound Travel Agent and Best Cruise Operator once again reaffirms Aitken Spence Travels’ unparalleled market leader position and now as South Asia’s best. I dedicate these wins to our devoted and committed teams, who constantly go beyond expectations to craft and deliver unforgettable travel experiences to our valued travellers. We will continue to innovate in brining and showcasing the best possible experiences of destination Sri Lanka and raise industry benchmarks as the market leader.’

This year’s awards were endorsed by more than 18 leading tourism organisations and boards, including the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) and the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), underscoring SATA’s industry-wide credibility and relevance.

Looking ahead, Aitken Spence Travels remains steadfast in its commitment to shaping the future of Sri Lanka’s tourism with sustainability at its core. By nurturing partnerships, investing in people, and driving innovation, the company is determined to grow responsibly, preserving the island’s rich natural and cultural heritage while creating meaningful opportunities for future generations. As Sri Lanka strengthens its position on the global tourism map, Aitken Spence Travels is proud to lead the way with purpose, resilience, and a vision for a more sustainable tomorrow.

Under-16 Elite Rugby Sevens kicks off with 32 teams

The future stars of Sri Lankan rugby will take centre stage when the Under-16 Elite Rugby Sevens 2025 organised by the Sri Lanka Schools Rugby Football Association (SLSRFA), kicks off on 4 October.

The opening day’s matches will be played across two venues – Ananda College ground in Rajagiriya and St. Peter’s College at Bambalapitiya.

The excitement will build toward the knockout rounds, which will be staged exclusively on 5 October at St. Peter’s College, Bambalapitiya.

A total of 32 teams, divided into eight groups, will compete in this year’s edition. The tournament promises a weekend of thrilling rugby as young athletes showcase their skills, stamina and determination.

Group A features S.Thomas’ Mount Lavinia, Science College, Piliyandala Central, and Richmond College. This pool is expected to produce some fast-paced encounters with balanced competition.

In Group B, D.S. Senanayake College, Vidyartha, Prince of Wales and Lalith Athulathmudali will battle for supremacy. These teams are known for producing gritty performances.

Group C includes Isipathana, St. Anthony’s, Mahanama and Sri Piyarathna, while Group D sees Trinity, Kandy Sumangala, St. Benedict’s and St. Aloysius clash in what looks to be one of the most competitive groups.

Traditional heavyweights St. Peter’s and St. Joseph’s headline Group E, joined by Maliyadeva and Nugawela Central. Meanwhile, Group F brings together Wesley, Dharmaraja, Ananda and Panadura Sumangala.

Rounding off the lineup, Group G features Royal, Thurstan, St. Sylvester’s and Sri Rahula, while Group H will witness Kingswood, Zahira, Lumbini and Carey vie for a place in the knockouts.

Aruna Dissanayake to lead KBSL’s next growth phase as COO and Acting CEO

KBSL Information Technologies, a member of the Agility Innovation Group and a leading systems integrator in Sri Lanka with a legacy of over 35 years, has announced the appointment of Aruna Dissanayake as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO). Aruna will also serve as Acting CEO until a new leader is onboarded, underscoring the company’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team and delivering greater value to customers.

An accomplished leader with nearly three decades of experience in the global IT industry, Aruna brings a wealth of expertise in enterprise technology, operations, and business transformation. His career spans both local and international leadership roles, with more than five years in the USA and Europe, where he gained significant exposure to diverse technology markets.

Aruna began his career at Virtusa and later contributed to building engineering excellence at Millennium IT (now part of the London Stock Exchange Group). He went on to scale Valista from a team of just 15 to over 150 professionals, guiding the company through its acquisitions by Aepona, Intel, and Persistent Systems.

During this journey, he led the Professional Services Engineering Team at Aepona, working with Tier-1 Global teleco operators, including Verizon, France Telecom (Orange), Telia, TDC, and VimpelCom (VEON). His exposure to global telecom ecosystems gave him deep insight into payment systems, API management, and large-scale go-to-market strategies for next-generation digital services.

‘KBSL has a strong foundation in IT infrastructure services and an unmatched partner ecosystem. As we strategically expand into areas such as enterprise applications, cloud platforms, and AI-driven digital transformation, Aruna’s leadership will enable us to deliver greater value to our customers. His appointment marks not just a change in leadership, but a pivotal step in our journey toward shaping the future of Sri Lanka’s digital economy.’

At Intel Corporation, Aruna served as Senior Director of Engineering, where he spearheaded several digital transformation initiatives. He led the migration of large enterprise monolithic applications from physical data centres to public cloud platforms, refactoring them into cloud-native microservices architectures. These initiatives significantly improved cost efficiency, enhanced high availability, and optimised both CapEx and OpEx models for global clients. During his tenure at Intel, Aruna also cofounded and spearheaded the Colombo IoT Meetup Group, engaging local developer communities in Internet of Things (IoT) projects, fostering collaboration and innovation in emerging technologies.

Aruna later joined Persistent Systems as Vice President of Engineering and Country Head of the Sri Lanka Delivery Center, overseeing the growth and strategic direction of the centre. Concurrently, he served as Head of Innovation at Accelerite, Persistent’s product arm, where he led research and development initiatives to drive innovation in enterprise solutions. In his dual roles, Aruna played a pivotal part in the launch of Persistent’s advanced GenAI platform, which revolutionised software engineering by integrating generative and deterministic AI. This platform enhanced productivity and efficiency across the software development lifecycle, from ideation to post-deployment operations, empowering businesses to drive innovation and enhance customer experiences.

KBSL Chairman Vasee said: ‘Aruna’s extensive experience and proven track record in technology leadership align perfectly with our vision for KBSL’s future. His expertise in working with global technology leaders and Tier-1 enterprises will be instrumental as we continue to evolve and expand our service offerings.

‘KBSL has a strong foundation in IT infrastructure services and an unmatched partner ecosystem. As we strategically expand into areas such as enterprise applications, cloud platforms, and AI-driven digital transformation, Aruna’s leadership will enable us to deliver greater value to our customers. His appointment marks not just a change in leadership, but a pivotal step in our journey toward shaping the future of Sri Lanka’s digital economy.’

Aruna holds an M.Sc. in Computer Science and a B.Sc. in Computer Science and Engineering with First-Class Honours from the University of Moratuwa. He is also a member of the Forbes Technology Council, has served on the Advisory Board of the Capacity Forum of SLASSCOM, and contributed to the Industry Consultative Boards of the University of Moratuwa and SLIIT, helping to shape the next generation of IT talent in Sri Lanka.

Reflecting on his new role, Aruna said: ‘KBSL has been a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s IT industry for decades. I see this as an opportunity to build on that foundation and help businesses prepare for a new digital era – one where data, applications, and teams work seamlessly together.

‘Our focus will be on guiding clients to create intelligent, secure, and scalable environments that adapt to their needs. By leveraging the power of global cloud platforms, modern automation, and forward-looking security practices such as Zero Trust, we aim to deliver infrastructure and applications that are not only cutting-edge but also cost-effective and sustainable.

Reflecting on his new role, Aruna said: ‘KBSL has been a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s IT industry for decades. I see this as an opportunity to build on that foundation and help businesses prepare for a new digital era – one where data, applications, and teams work seamlessly together

‘Looking ahead, I believe the future of enterprise technology lies in combining scalable infrastructure with innovation at the application layer – from AI-powered IT service management to no-code platforms and enterprise marketplaces. Equally important is embedding robust cybersecurity from the start, ensuring resilience through advanced managed security services. At KBSL, we intend to bring these capabilities together to help our clients thrive, innovate, and stay secure in a rapidly changing digital landscape.’

About KBSL

KBSL Information Technologies: Driving Sri Lanka’s Digital Future

KBSL Information Technologies Limited is a leading force in Sri Lanka’s ICT landscape, delivering transformative solutions that power enterprise resilience and national infrastructure advancement. With over three decades of experience, KBSL specializes in integrated technology services spanning cloud architecture, data center modernization, smart building systems, and managed IT operations.

The company’s multidisciplinary expertise supports mission-critical environments across both public and private sectors. Recognized for its strategic approach to digital enablement, institutional alignment, and operational excellence, KBSL continues to strengthen its partner ecosystem with global technology leaders to deliver best-in-class solutions locally.

As Sri Lanka accelerates its digital journey, KBSL remains a trusted partner in shaping a secure, scalable, and future-ready ecosystem that enables organizations to innovate with confidence.

Building global brands at home: AOD enriches Sri Lanka’s creative economy with another entrepreneurial success

Creativity is often the defining capital behind profitable ventures. This was most recently seen in the wide global recognition of entrepreneur Nawoda Bandara, taking Sri Lankan fashion international, with the support of AOD.

Building brands that resonate beyond Sri Lanka is one of the most powerful ways to strengthen the nation’s creative economy, drawing investment, expanding export potential, and elevating the country’s profile with global consumers. Nawoda Bandara, a remarkably talented young fashion entrepreneur and graduate of AOD’s Northumbria BA (Hons) Fashion and Textile Design program, is the latest to prove it. Her record of early accolades already speaks volumes: Best International Portfolio in 2023, Top Prize at Dubai Fashion Week × IGFW, Top 5 in Asia at the CDC × Lakmé Fashion Week competition. Showing early signs of this success, her academic years were also filled with international recognition; Top 15 in Asia at the Redress Design Awards, Top 9 Global Finalist in Hong Kong, winner of the TAL × Browzwear 3D Fashion Challenge, Second Place in the SDC International Design Competition, plus titles such as Multidisciplinary Designer of the Year and Outstanding Student of the Year. Her brand NAO’s recent feature in Vogue celebrates her vision of Sri Lankan fashion that honours craft while embracing the future.

Each milestone elevates Sri Lanka’s creative industries, proving local talent can excel globally. Nawoda’s success boosts investor confidence, attracts collaborators, and positions the island as a serious player in design, fashion, and cultural entrepreneurship.

AOD spotted Nawoda’s potential early, pairing her with mentors and opening doors to international competitions and collaborations. Now she’s a designer fluent in global fashion yet rooted in Sri Lanka’s stories: a mix that attracts investors and collaborators worldwide. By blending creativity with entrepreneurship, AOD equips students with tools, confidence, and global networks to build sustainable, industry-ready careers. Its partnerships, collaborations, and ongoing mentorship give graduates like Nawoda the credibility and opportunities to thrive.

Nawoda confirms: ‘AOD has been an important part of my journey, giving me the foundation and platform to grow as a designer. Its supportive environment encouraged me to experiment, refine my craft, and push design boundaries. The mentorship, exposure to industry professionals, and opportunities to showcase my work gave me confidence to pursue fashion. AOD’s strong industry connections opened doors for collaborations, competitions, and international recognition. Most importantly, AOD believed in me, nurtured my passion, and helped me channel it into a career aligned with sustainability, creativity, and cultural pride.’

Nawoda’s success highlights the power of education combined with industry collaboration and cultural innovation. Her journey proves that locally educated talent can become industry leaders and entrepreneurs who not only keep pace with the world but shape it.

Don’t miss the chance to give your young creative expert guidance at AOD’s Design Careers Week from 29 September – 3 October, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at AOD. Get personalised portfolio reviews and career insights that could shape their design future.

Mandarina Colombo and Marine Bay Colombo shine at South Asian Travel Awards 2025

Two flagship hotels under the Macksons Hotels portfolio – Marine Bay Colombo and Mandarina Colombo – brought home top honours at the prestigious South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2025.

Marine Bay Colombo, the Group’s newest property, was awarded the Gold Award for Leading City Hotel, a remarkable recognition within just months of its launch. Mandarina Colombo, was recognised as the Leading Business Hotel, strengthening its position as the preferred choice for both corporate and leisure travellers.

The South Asian Travel Awards, regarded as one of the region’s most respected hospitality accolades, celebrate outstanding performance and service excellence across South Asia’s tourism and hotel sectors. The 2025 ceremony was held on the 20 September at Cinnamon Grand Colombo, where winning two major awards in the same year became a milestone that underscored the vision, dedication, and commitment of the Macksons Hotels team.

The ceremony was attended by Macksons Holdings Managing Director Mizver Makeen, Group Financial Controller Shameela Mizver, Group Financial Controller; Chief Executive Officer Mizha Mizver, Group Director – Hospitality and FMCG Food Sector Sarah Mizver, Group Director – Hospitality and FMCG Food Sector; and General Manager – Macksons Hotels Dinesh Hettiarachchi.

Speaking on behalf of the management, the leadership team expressed their gratitude to their loyal guests, staff, and partners, emphasising that these awards are not just a win for the hotels but also a win for Sri Lanka’s hospitality industry as a whole.

Can Gaza be saved by the UN General Assembly through a 1950 Resolution?

An immediate ceasefire in Palestine, which is being bombed every 8-9 minutes according to the UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, was deadlocked at the Security Council last week through a veto by the United States of America. A deadlock which blocked a potential halt to the killing of civilians at a scale and intensity that the world has not seen in living memory outside of World War II.

Thankfully, all is not lost at the United Nations. In this situation of deadlock where there is a threat to global peace and security, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) isn’t entirely helpless. If blocked by a veto-wielding country, the UNGA has the means to bypass the Security Council by invoking a 1950 Resolution known as Uniting for Peace, Resolution 377 A(V), which gives the General Assembly the power to recommend a number of mechanisms including the use of force.

Christian Tomuschat, Professor Emeritus at Humboldt University, Berlin explains: ‘Obviously, the crucial element of Resolution 377 A (V) was the affirmation that the General Assembly may, if deemed appropriate by it, recommend collective action, including the use of force.’

The ‘Uniting for Peace’ Resolution has been invoked over a dozen times thus far. Professor Tomuschat writes that the tenth emergency special session, which dealt with the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territory ‘started in 1997 and has not yet come to its end. (It was adjourned by resolution ES-10/16 of 17 November 2006, para. 13, and can at any time be resumed upon request by Member States.)’

Kushtrim Istrefi, Associate Professor of Public International Law and Human Rights Law at Utrecht University writes that the ‘ICJ in its advisory opinion on Kosovo has affirmed the legal weight of the Uniting for Peace resolution.’ (https://opiniojuris.org/2025/09/17/uniting-for-peace-in-gaza-a-test-for-the-general-assembly/)

Human rights experts urge use

On 5th September, a few weeks ago, in Geneva, 45 United Nations human rights experts called on ‘Member states to act under ‘uniting for peace’ in line with General Assembly Resolution 377 V and recommend a peace operation.’ They warned that ‘Silence and inaction are not an option in the face of mass atrocities’. (https://www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2025/09/gaza-un-experts-urge-general-assembly-respond-famine-and-genocide)

The group of experts which included the universally respected Francesca Albanese, Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in the Palestinian territories, occupied since 1967, said that the ‘situation in Gaza is intolerable and unconscionable.’

The UN Experts (known as UN Special Procedures) had a message for the leaders of governments in their message: ‘At this critical moment, the world needs the General Assembly – the highest body of the United Nations – to take decisive leadership and act to prevent further catastrophe’.

They asked the leaders, who should feel ashamed, the following: ‘Already, half a million people in Gaza are starving. Have State authorities become so numb to these numbers – so de-sensitized, once again, to the systematic breaches of our collective moral and legal obligations?’

They urged the General Assembly ‘to act without delay to stop the machinery of death’.

Sri Lanka’s stand

Around the world, people are gathering in their tens of thousands to protest the horrors visited by Israel on the civilians in Palestine. Some of their governments have responded by recognising Palestinian statehood. This could lead to full membership of the United Nations.

Sri Lanka which had already recognised Palestine as a State, has traditionally been vocal on its support for its people, often endorsing a two-state solution. However, there has been ambivalence at actually voting at UN forums which censure Israel for its manner of conducting its war against Hamas’s terrorism. The fear of the consequences of speaking plainly at such forums, which by no means is limited to Sri Lanka, has guided their work at the UN. Such anxiety is not baseless, as the influence Israel wields with many capitals around the world is considerable. The most recent carnage in the Middle-East appears to have somewhat eroded that hesitancy as moral outrage and empathy for the victims have taken primacy in most countries.

Not so much in Sri Lanka. A mainstream English-language Sunday newspaper noted that President Anura Dissanayake had avoided mentioning the very term Israel in his statement at the UNGA, despite his words of sympathy with Gaza. Earlier, Sri Lanka had condemned the attack on Doha, Qatar, without mentioning the perpetrator, Israel.

The NPP government has continued the practice of the previous administration of including Israel in its list of countries for foreign employment for Sri Lankans and has encouraged tourists from Israel to come to Sri Lanka visa-free, including IDF soldiers on Rest and Recreation. The government’s stance on the skirmishes in the Southern beaches between these tourists and some locals was reportedly circumscribed by the spend-per-tourist at those resorts. Given these trends, Sri Lanka’s stance on a possible emergency session under UN Resolution 377 V is difficult to predict.

Sri Lanka which had already recognised Palestine as a State, has traditionally been vocal on its support for its people, often endorsing a two-state solution. However, there has been ambivalence at actually voting at UN forums which censure Israel for its manner of conducting its war against Hamas’s terrorism. The fear of the consequences of speaking plainly at such forums, which by no means is limited to Sri Lanka, has guided their work at the UN

Calls from leaders, celebrities, academics

A few days ago, at an event in New York, President of Columbia Gustavo Petro announced his plans to invoke Resolution 377 V at the UNGA, seeking a positive vote by all 193 members, to authorise sending an international protection force to Palestine. The head of the Green Party in the US, Jill Stein, Roger Waters, (Ex-Pink Floyd), and Brian Eno (famous avant-garde composer) took to social media to appeal to the general public to support this initiative and to request people to pressure their governments to join forces in this endeavour.

Associate Professor Kushtrim Istref, writing a piece in Opinion Juris titled ‘Uniting for Peace in Gaza: A Test for the General Assembly’ said that ‘Action under Uniting for Peace is no guarantee of immediate practical impact. However, at the very least, it would ensure that the UN continues to uphold international law, including humanitarian law, mobilise states and agencies, and sustain its own constitutional integrity.’

As the Sumud Flotilla carrying aid to Gaza nears its destination, massive protests around the world calling on their governments to use their leverage to stop the violence in Gaza, and growing calls for effective action by the UNGA, perhaps this time, the nobility and resilience of the people of Gaza in the face of unimaginable suffering, may motivate the urgent action needed to save them.