Wednesday, October 29, 2025
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NCHS Strengthens Ties with Top USA Universities

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The Nawaloka College of Higher Studies (NCHS), a trusted leader in international education, continues to open doors for Sri Lankan students to achieve their dream of studying in the United States.

A senior NCHS delegation comprising Mr. Victor Ramanan, CEO/Deputy Chairman; Dr. Alan Robertson, Dean of Studies; and Ms. Nipuni Jayaweera, Head of Marketing and Partnership Development, conducted a successful visit to the USA. The visit focused on strengthening partnerships and creating new study pathways with top American universities.

Opportunities for Sri Lankan Students One of the most exciting outcomes of the visit is the new 1+3 transfer pathway introduced with California State University San Marcos (CSU San Marcos). This allows students to complete one year in Sri Lanka at NCHS and the remaining three years in the USA. It’s a wonderful opportunity for students to access world-class American education in a structured and affordable way. This is a value addition to the existing 2+2 pathway that is currently enjoyed.

NCHS has also introduced new online degree options from USA universities, giving students the flexibility to begin their degrees right here in Sri Lanka. These programs are designed to make international education accessible, affordable, and high in quality.

Strengthening Bonds with Leading American Universities During the visit, the NCHS team met with several leading universities, including Fullerton Community College and the California State University (CSU) campuses at San Marcos, Northridge, and Fresno. They also visited the State University of New York (SUNY) Albany and the College of Staten Island in New York, which has the second largest Sri Lankan student population outside Sri Lanka.

NCHS maintains strong partnerships with the University of North Alabama, Austin Peay State University in Tennessee, Kings University College in Ontario, the University of Lynchburg in Virginia, and Salisbury University in Maryland. Each of these universities warmly welcomes Sri Lankan students and provides strong academic and personal support as they adapt to life in the USA.

Inspiring Alumni The NCHS delegation also met several Sri Lankan students who are now studying in the USA. The students spoke with great pride about how their time at NCHS helped them take the bold step toward international education.

They shared that NCHS not only prepared them academically but also helped them build the confidence to adapt to a new country and culture. “Studying in the US has opened so many doors for me. I’m learning every day in class, at work, and through new friendships” stated Malindu, who is an NCHS Alumni, studying at Fresno State University.Many students described the USA as truly the Land of Opportunities, where they are gaining valuable exposure and finding rewarding part-time work while pursuing their degrees. They expressed deep gratitude to NCHS for guiding them on this life-changing journey and helping them make their American dream a reality.

Building a Global Future for Sri Lankan Youth NCHS remains committed to empowering Sri Lankan students to reach their full potential. Through its expanding partnerships with world-class universities and its focus on quality education, NCHS continues to guide students towards success — both at home and abroad.

Ceylon International Film Festival

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2025 CEYIFF Award Winners
🏆 Best Film: Veppam Kulir Mazhai – India
🎖 Grand Prix: Stigma – Sri Lanka – Chaminda Ilukwela
📽 Best Documentary: Babel to Abstraction – UK – Rob Lemkin, Irina Johnstone
🎬 Best Short Film: Amida – Iran – Majid Mirhashemi
🎭 Best Actor: Hello from the Other Side – Sri Lanka – Damith Wijayathunga
👑 Best Actress: Veppam Kulir Mazhai – India – Ismath Banu
🎞 Best Director: Hello from the Other Side – Sri Lanka – Vinosha Kiriwandeniya
📸 Best Cinematographer: Veppam Kulir Mazhai – India
✂ Best Editing: Stigma – Sri Lanka – Ajith Ramanayaka
🔊 Best Sound Mixing: Veppam Kulir Mazhai – India
💡 Originality Award: Stigma – Sri Lanka – Chaminda Ilukwela
⭐ Best Supporting Actor: Old Monk (Stigma) – Sri Lanka – Cletus Mendis
🌹 Best Supporting Actress: Stigma – Sri Lanka – Nita Fernand

Honorable Mentions The Replacement – Short (Sri Lanka) – Ruvani Kurukulasuriya Revenge Therapy – Actor: Gabriel Vigo Before 1619: She Took Justice – Director: Bobby John FieldThe Blind Spot – Director: Pavan Atukuri The Doctor’s Office – Director: Don Collins

Special CEYIFF Awards:Spirit of Service & Cultural Excellence: Andy Samarasena – for philanthropic work and promoting Sri Lanka through visual storytelling.Dedication & Excellence in Supporting Acting: Angela Senavirathna – for 50 years of contribution to Sri Lankan cinema.Emerging Visionary Award: Vindana Ariyawansa – for creativity and rising influence in filmmaking.

A Platform for Cultural Diplomacy

CEYIFF extends heartfelt appreciation to its partners and sponsors — City of Goleta, City of Santa Barbara, Direct Relief, Community West Bank, Chumash Foundation, Miguel Avila of Pacific Crest Realty, and Mesa Café — for their continuous support and commitment to cultural exchange.

“CEYIFF is not just a film festival — it’s a movement of unity, art, and heritage,” said President Aruni Boteju. “It’s where Sri Lanka meets the world through cinema.”

🌹 Farewell to a Great Son of the Motherland – Retired SSP Mr. Vass Perera 🌹

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Today, we say goodbye to a noble son of our motherland, Retired Senior Superintendent of Police Mr. Vass Perera, a man who devoted his entire life to protecting the sovereignty, peace, and integrity of our beloved Sri Lanka.

With unwavering courage and an unshakable sense of duty, he served the nation with pride and dignity. Every step of his long and honorable journey reflected discipline, dedication, and deep love for his country. He stood firm in times of challenge and led by example, earning the admiration and respect of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

But beyond the uniform and the authority, Mr. Vass Perera was a truly great human being — kind-hearted, humble, and compassionate. He touched countless lives with his warmth, wisdom, and humanity. He was not just a superior officer; he was a true leader, a mentor, and a guiding light to all who served under him.

Today, we mourn not only the loss of a respected officer but the passing of a beautiful soul who gave everything for his motherland. Though you have taken your final rest, your legacy of honor, courage, and humanity will live forever in our hearts.

Farewell, dear sir.
May you rest in eternal peace, wrapped in the love of a grateful nation.
Until we meet again — sleep well, our beloved hero.

Gamini pitagampala , National Artist , pho @university of kalaniya , Dip in com university of peradeniya , professional photographer , Sub inspector of police ,Special task force .

Top Startups Secure USD 160,000 in Funding at First Capital Startup Nation by Hatch Demo Day

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The highly anticipated First Capital Startup Nation by Hatch Demo Day lit up Colombo on October 1st, 2025, as Sri Lanka’s brightest founders, investors, and ecosystem partners came together for a powerful evening of innovation, vision, and opportunity.
Hosted at Hatch’s flagship space, the event marked a defining milestone in the country’s startup journey, showcasing the depth of local entrepreneurial talent and the collaborative strength of Sri Lanka’s innovation community. The evening began with the unveiling of the First Capital Startup Nation by Hatch, followed by opening remarks from Mr. Rajendra Theagarajah, Chairman, First Capital Holdings PLC. Hatch Co-Founder Jeevan Gnanam, setting the tone for a night that celebrated both purpose and progress.
Three Startups Take the Lead
Seven exceptional finalists pitched their ideas before a panel of local and international investors, with three startups emerging at the top, eligible for a combined USD 160,000 in funding: TorchLabs – Dhevin De Silva, Seashore Gardens – Shawn Senerath and Shavendra Rajapakse, Docupath AI – Sheran Corera
Each founder showcased how innovation and resilience continue to define Sri Lanka’s new-age entrepreneurs, connecting directly with investors and unlocking opportunities for collaboration and scale.
Reflecting on his experience, Dhevin De Silva of TorchLabs shared “It was great participating in First Capital Startup Nation by Hatch. I got to meet a lot of founders, network with investors, it was a valuable experience. Everyone should join this program in the future; it’s a great learning opportunity. To any young founder: get started now. You never know what’s on the next horizon.”
A Vision for a Startup Nation
Speaking about Hatch’s journey, Jeevan Gnanam, Co-Founder of Hatch, stated “Great ideas don’t happen in a single moment, they evolve through relentless questioning and refinement. What began in 2018 as a co-working space has become the central nervous system of Sri Lanka’s startup ecosystem. With $2 million already secured from Draper, existing investors, and GrowValley, and new initiatives like Mesh, HLab, and Hatch Funds, we’re not just building spaces, we’re building an ecosystem that powers a Startup Nation.”
He added “Sri Lanka stands as a neutral bridge between East and West, a nimble testbed for South and Southeast Asia. With partners from nine countries here today, we’re proving that purpose and profit can grow together.”
Dilshan Wirasekara, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, First Capital Holdings PLC stated “This initiative represents a significant milestone in strengthening Sri Lanka’s startup ecosystem. The strong participation of over 100 founders and 50 global investors reflects the growing confidence in the country’s innovation potential. The discussions around policy, technology and investment frameworks will play an important role in shaping the next phase of entrepreneurial growth.

At First Capital, our focus remains on enabling progress through innovation and collaboration. Partnering with Hatch on the Startup Nation programme aligns with our vision to support scalable businesses and create opportunities that empower all Sri Lankans to be part of a more dynamic, future-ready economy.”
Power in Partnership
Sudheera Bandara, Head of Marketing at Orion City, the event’s Silver Sponsor, shared “As a hub for innovation and technology, Orion City is proud to have been the Silver Sponsor of First Capital Startup Nation by Hatch. The event showcased incredible talent within Sri Lanka’s startup community and reaffirmed our belief in nurturing a robust ecosystem where groundbreaking ideas can thrive.”
Port City Colombo, as a Strategic Partner, was highlighted for its progressive and investor-friendly business environment that serves as a springboard for local and international startups to scale globally. This Special Economic Zone (SEZ) addresses capital flight challenges by enhancing access to foreign funding, while supporting Sri Lanka’s vision of becoming a global innovation hub through the retention of both investment and top talent.
Strength in Collaboration
The success of First Capital Startup Nation by Hatch was made possible through the support of an extensive network of partners and sponsors, including Title Sponsor First Capital Holdings PLC, Silver Sponsor Orion City, and Strategic Partner Port City Colombo.
Additional partners included ICTA (National Partner), National Innovation Agency (National Innovation Partner), Founder Institute and Impactr (Knowledge Partners), Lankan Angel Network (Investment Partner), TiE Colombo (Impact Partner), and University of Sri Jayewardenepura (Academic Partner).
The event also received support from Sri Lankan Airlines (Official Airlines Partner), Singapore Sri Lanka Business Association (Outreach Partner), SLASSCOM (Industry Partner), LMD (Print Media Partner), Ada Derana 24, TV Derana, Echelon, Economy Next, and Pulse (Media Partners), along with FOX FM (Radio Partner) and ART TV (TV Partner).
Hospitality support was provided by Sofia Colombo, Radisson Collection Resort Galle, and Orion City Hotel.
The First Capital Startup Nation by Hatch Demo Day underscored the vibrancy and potential of Sri Lanka’s startup ecosystem, fostering collaboration, unlocking funding, and propelling founders toward regional and global success.

Sri Lanka Customs has recorded its highest revenue ever in a single day.

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Sri Lanka Customs recorded the highest revenue collected in a single day in history yesterday, (15).

Accordingly, a tax amount of Rs. 24,918 million was collected on that day, and by October (15) this year, a revenue of Rs. 1,867 billion has been collected.
The statement issued by the Director General of Customs further stated that the revenue target of Rs. 2,115 billion given to Customs for the year 2025 will be easily exceeded.

Consumer Affairs Authority continues to conduct raids

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14.10.2025
Town Name :- Thirunelveli
Shop Name :- Atputha Thas Foodcity
Production :- Keeri Samba (Gem)
Sold Price :- 295/-
Fine Amount:- 150,000/- 14.10.2025
Town Name :- Jaffna
Shop Name :- Kanthan Multi
Production :- Keeri Samba (Gem)
Sold Price :- 280/-
Fine Amount:- 150,000/-
14.10.2025
Town Name :- Jaffna
Shop Name :- Rolex Bakery & Restaurant
Production :- Water Bottle 1Ltr
Sold Price :- 150/-
Fine Amount:- 100,000/-
Next Dated :- 14.10.2025
Fined Dated :- 17.07.2025

Brand Finance Names Hayleys Solar Among Sri Lanka’s 100 Most Valuable Brands

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The sole renewable energy brand to make the list

Hayleys Solar, Sri Lanka’s No. 1 solar solutions provider, has been recognised as the sole renewable energy brand listed amongst Brand Finance’s 100 Most Valuable Brands in Sri Lanka.

The achievement builds on inclusions in LMD’s Most Loved Brands 2025 and CEO Magazine’s Top 25 Brands in Sri Lanka, where Hayleys Solar was once again the first and only renewable energy brand to be featured, marking another milestone in the brand’s journey as a leader in the nation’s renewable energy sector.

“Born and built in Sri Lanka and backed by the 147-year legacy of Hayleys PLC, this recognition truly belongs to our nation’s citizens,” said Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons Limited. “Their belief in us drives our relentless commitment to strengthening energy independence and a more self-sufficient future. To stand as the only renewable energy brand recognised by three separate platforms evaluating Sri Lanka’s most valuable, most loved and most trusted brands is both a privilege and a responsibility we carry with pride.”

Reflecting on the milestone, Roshane Perera, CEO/Director of Hayleys Solar, added: “These back-to-back recognitions signal our growing market presence and reinforce our commitment to advancing Sri Lanka’s renewable energy transition.”

Sri Lanka’s 100 most valuable brands by Brand Finance assesses companies on brand value, financial performance, credibility and market recognition, serving as a benchmark of consumer and stakeholder trust.

Guided by its mission to drive Sri Lanka towards an energy-independent, green future, Hayleys Solar has been at the forefront of the renewable energy movement since 2011. By the end of 2025, it is poised to become the first local entity to surpass 500 MW of solar power installations nationwide, delivering fully customised, end-to-end solutions, from system design and installation to after-sales support and maintenance.

Hayleys Solar further specialises in energy storage systems comprising off-grid/hybrid solutions serving domestic, commercial, industrial and utility customers, with all projects executed by in-house engineering experts backed by a robust service network across Sri Lanka and South-West Asia.

For more information, please contact Hayleys Solar on 0112 102 102 or visit www.hayleyssolar.com. To experience the latest in solar technology first-hand, visit any of Hayleys Solar’s Experience Centres in Matara, Jaffna, Negombo, Kandy, or the Hayleys Fentons Experience Centre in Nawala.

Image Caption – Hasith Prematillake, Managing Director of Hayleys Fentons Limited and Roshane Perara Director / CEO Hayleys Solar

SRI LANKAN GEARS UP FOR THE BOAT & MARINE SHOW IN 2026

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Sri Lanka is gearing up to host the 9th International Boat Show & Conference – a global showcase of marine innovation, lifestyle, and tourism in Colombo, Sri Lanka from January 30 to February 1, 2026. The island nation will welcome the world to Boat Show & Conference to Colombo in 2026, South Asia’s premier marine festival. Held at the spectacular Port City Colombo and open daily from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM, the event promises to be the biggest and most dynamic edition in its history.

Organized by the Chamber of Marine Industries Sri Lanka and managed by CDC Events (Pvt) Ltd, the show is backed by the Ministries of Industry and Entrepreneurship, Foreign Affairs, Employment and Tourism, and the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB). This strong endorsement underscores Sri Lanka’s ambition to become a regional hub for boating, yachting. marine tourism, and boat and ship building.

A Regional Success Story-Since its launch in 2008, the Boat & Marine Show has grown from a niche exhibition into South Asia’s largest marine showcase promoting boating as a lifestyle, drawing global buyers, investors, and enthusiasts. Previous editions in 2008, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2023 set the stage for an even grander 2026 edition,

This year’s event will feature: Boats, yachts, and ship builders from Sri Lanka and abroad; Marine engines, repairs, navigation systems and composite materials; Diving operators, water sports providers, and eco-tourism ventures; Yacht brokers, marinas, and charter services; Whale and dolphin watching operators. The mix of trade and entertainment ensures the show appeals to both industry leaders and the public.

Global Participation-

Delegations from India, Singapore, Maldives, South Korea, Belgium, Germany, Holland, the UK, Seychelles, and the Middle East are expected, giving exhibitors unparalleled access to international buyers and decision-makers. Participants will include investors exploring joint ventures in marine industries; hotels, resorts, and tour operators; navy, coast guard, and port authorities; adventure clubs, yachting associations, and high-net-worth individuals.

Backed by Government–

Powered by Industry The Sri Lankan government has identified the show as a priority event for promoting exports, investment, and tourism. For exhibitors, this translates into credibility and visibility; for buyers, it signals a stable, investor-friendly environment.

More Than a Boat Show

The Boat & Marine Show 2026 is not only an exhibition but a celebration of marine lifestyle and culture. It combines business networking with entertainment, creating opportunities for trade, partnerships, and leisure in the heart of Colombo.The first day will host a conference spotlighting Sri Lanka’s rich nautical tourism potential and the need to safeguard its marine ecosystems. Participants will hear from experts offering valuable perspectives to guide sustainable policymaking. The Boat & Marine Show 2026 is where business meets lifestyle, and where Sri Lanka charts its bold course as South Asia’s marine gateway, truly The Emerging Nautical Jewel of the Indian Ocean…

BY NELUM BUDDHADASA

The Legend Returns: The Original Ceylon Motor Show Is Back Bigger Than Ever

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The historic Ceylon Motor Show 2025 is set to make a spectacular return this year, from the 24th of October 2025 to the 26th of October 2025 at the BMICH, Colombo, marking its first edition at the newly built halls of western car park. The highly anticipated event is organised by the Ceylon Motor Traders Association (CMTA), and the Classic Car Club of Ceylon (CCCC), and powered by LOLC Holdings PLC as Title Partner. The event will reaffirm its position as Sri Lanka’s biggest and most influential automotive exhibition.

The Motor Show returns after a six-year hiatus, and will once again unite industry leaders, vehicle enthusiasts, and families, with over 30,000 visitors expected across its 3-day duration. The exhibition is set to feature the largest showcase of vehicles ever held in Sri Lanka, including cars, SUVS, motorcycles, trucks and automative accessories, representing over 30 globally leading brands through their authorised franchise holders in Sri Lanka.

One of the key highlights of the show will be the focus on next-generation mobility, which includes electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, advanced design innovation and interactive demonstrations that provided first-hand experiences of the latest in automotive technology. The CMTA member companies are also preparing exclusive new vehicle launches and models, marking several debuts to the Sri Lankan market.

Susaan Bandara, Chief Officer, Marketing Communications, LOLC Group stated, “We are really proud to partner with the Ceylon Motor Show 2025. Through Browns, LOLC has a long-standing connection with the automobile industry. In fact, Browns were among the pioneers in bringing vehicles to Sri Lanka. The Ceylon Motor Show has always been the country’s most prestigious and anticipated motor event, and we are glad to see it back after the break caused by COVID. It’s a platform that showcases innovation, engineering excellence, and the latest developments that excite motor enthusiasts, and we are happy to be a part of bringing that energy and inspiration back this year.”

Adding further appeal to the event, the CCCC, is geared to present a fantastic display of over 150 vintage and classic automobiles, the largest collection ever showcased in Sri Lanka. This gives attendees a unique opportunity to interact with owners and restoration experts and gain insights into the history and craftsmanship of these exceptional vehicles.

The Ceylon Motor Show 2025 is further supported by Capital Maharajah Group as the Official Radio and TV Partner, Wijeya Newspapers as the Official Print Media Partner, and Emerging Media as the Official Outdoor Digital Signage Partner.

With its unique combination of innovation and heritage, the Ceylon Motor Show 2025 is geared to be a landmark event that celebrates the innovation, heritage, and passion that continues to drive Sri Lanka’s automotive industry from strength to strength.

Caption: From left to right: Mr. Susaan Bandara, Chief Officer – Marketing Communications, LOLC Group; Mr. Andrew Perera, Chairman, Ceylon Motor Traders Association; Mr. Sanjiv Alles, President, Classic Car Club of Ceylon; Mrs. Ramani Ponnambalam, Assistant Secretary, Classic Car Club of Ceylon; and Mr. BRI Ponnambalam, representing CMTA/Classic Car Club of Ceylon, at the official announcement of the Ceylon Motor Show 2025.

Publication for Parents on World Mental Health Day 2025 by SRILNAC

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Inspired by the late Rev. Dr. Mervyn Fernando, the father of counselling in Sri Lanka, the Sri Lanka National Association of Counsellors (SRILNAC) was inaugurated on September 9, 1985. As the nation’s pioneering professional body, SRILNAC has dedicated four decades to structuring the profession, upholding rigorous standards, and fostering ethical practice.

Marking its 40th Anniversary and World Mental Health Day 2025, SRILNAC proudly announces a special publication: A Psychological Approach to Healthy Parenting. Authored by leading mental health experts, this resource highlights the parental environment’s profound impact on a child’s emotional and psychological well-being. It provides crucial guidance for parents and teachers navigating today’s fast-changing world, aiming to nurture resilience, empathy, and balanced growth in children.

This initiative is SRILNAC’s gift to society, bridging professional expertise and social service. It reaffirms their enduring mission to advance counselling and build a mentally healthier, more compassionate Sri Lanka.

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