International media highlighted last week that the British government has announced that VFS Global will take over visa services in 26 new countries across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia, in a significant move to streamline the UK visa application process.

The British Government announced that it will increase VFS Global services in 26 countries across Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia and grant its approval to carry out its visa services as part of its effort to streamline its process.

The transition due to take place between September 2024 and January 2025 will make the process more streamlined thus making travel to Britain for either tourism or business much easier informed sources said. Therefore it has been noted there is a positive link between the granting of E-Visas and the increase of tourism and investment has taken this step to boost tourism, investment.

History and Origins

A subsidiary of Kuoni Travel Group. The company’s primary mission was to provide a more efficient, transparent, and simplified process for visa applications, managed solely by government agencies and diplomatic missions. The company’s services initially focused on managing front-end visa services for governments and embassies, handling routine administrative and non-judgemental tasks, such as collecting visa applications, biometric enrolments, and applicant documentation.

Contributions to World Travel

VFS Global’s commitment to secure data handling has been integral in maintaining the trust of governments and applicants, further cementing its reputation as a reliable visa processing partner.

As international travel continues to grow, VFS Global’s model demonstrates that outsourcing visa processing is both effective and scalable. Outsourcing to a specialist like VFS Global allows governments to meet the high demand for visa applications without sacrificing security or efficiency.

Global Presence

Presently under the ownership of EQT, a leading global investment firm, which provided investment and support, to expand the company’s technological infrastructure and service offerings. As of today, VFS Global operates in over 140 countries, managing visa and passport application services for around 67 client governments worldwide.

VFS Global has introduced an array of technology-driven services that enhance the efficiency and accuracy of its operations. For example, the company’s ‘Visa at Your Doorstep’ (VAYD) service enables applicants to complete visa applications from the comfort of their own homes, a solution particularly beneficial for those in remote areas or with mobility constraints.

Therefore supporters of outsourcing visa services to VFS Global argue that it could increase efficiency, enhance service quality, and align Sri Lanka with global standards for visa and immigration processes.  VFS Global could mean shorter wait times and greater convenience, that will benefit Sri Lanka.

Celebrating the 15th editionof promoting growth and opportunities in Northern Sri Lanka

November 05, 2024: Marked as the largest multi-trade exhibitions in the North of Sri Lanka, the Jaffna International Trade Fair (JIFT) is all set to make its highly anticipated return with its 15^th edition, from 24-26 January, 2025, at Muttraweli Grounds, Jaffna.

Under the theme “Your Gateway to the North,” this premier event will bring together entrepreneurs, business professionals, and community members from Sri Lanka and abroad for a comprehensive showcase of the region’s economic potential and thriving industries.

Organised by Lanka Exhibition and Conference Services (Pvt) Ltd. (LECS) in association with theChamber of Commerce and Industry of Yarlpanam (CCIY), the JITF has grown significantly since its inception in 2002, becoming a dynamic hub where industry leaders, SMEs, and emerging entrepreneurs connect.

Now in its 15^th edition, this event has firmly established itself as the flagship platform for business and industry in the North, delivering tangible economic and social impacts while enhancing livelihoods across the region.

Commenting on the event’s significance, LECS Chief Executive Officer Aasim Mukthar stated: “We are excited to launch the 15^th edition of the Jaffna International Trade Fair. This initiative has consistently provided a platform for individuals, SMEs, and entrepreneurs in the North of Sri Lanka to thrive. Through this endeavour, we aim to bridge economic disparities across provinces, paving the way for an inclusive and modernised Sri Lanka.”

The Jaffna International Trade Fair has been successful in establishing international connections, attracting investors from India, Canada, Indonesia, and beyond. With a focus on economic development and bridging the networking gap, facilitating collaborations, this year’s event offers entrepreneurs the chance to engage with conglomerates and companies nationwide.

The JITF 2025 is set to be an action-packed three days for SMEs, offering a unique chance to access new buyers, collaborations, and invaluable industry insights, thus strengthening both individual businesses and the wider Jaffna community.

This year’s JITF is poised to break previous records, backed by an impressive line-up of 20 sponsors and a surge in expected attendance and exhibitors.

Diesel and Motor Engineering PLC has joined as the Platinum Sponsor, with Gold Sponsors including Adrian Solar Green (Pvt) Ltd., Tokyo Cement Company (Lanka) PLC, and House of S-lon.

Additional support comes from Silver Sponsors such as Ceylon Biscuits Limited (Munchee), Sola Chemical Company, Fine Enterprises, Hayleys Fentons Ltd., Maxies and Company (Pvt) Ltd., Sun Match Company, Ruhunu Foods (Pvt) Ltd., LH Consortium (Pvt) Ltd., 4Ever Skin Naturals (Pvt) Ltd., Ellawala Horticulture (Pvt) Ltd., Rhino Roofing Products Limited, Phoenix Industries, Phoenix Industries (Super PVC), Deen Brothers Imports (Pvt) Ltd., Ferentino Tyre Corporation Pvt Ltd and Toyotsu Lanka (Pvt) Ltd.

With over 100,000 visitors anticipated, this edition promises to be one of the largest and most vibrant yet.

A vast range of industries will be represented, including construction, consumer products, travel and tourism, food and beverage, packaging, information and communication technology, education, automotive, agriculture, apparel, hospitality, financial services, healthcare, and more.

This event invites the public to come and experience this significant trade fair, which will also include importers, exporters, members of various chambers and associations, and industry professionals eager to form joint ventures and explore trading partnerships. Certifying bodies, research institutions, and financial organisations will also be present.

As the Jaffna International Trade Fair 2025 draws near, it stands as a testament to the power of shared vision, collaboration and commitment to progress in the North. Celebrating its 15^th version, JITF 2025 promises to set new standards of excellence, where industry, trade, and community development converge to shape a brighter future.

Hyperjet Technologies Sri Lanka in partnership with SpideRadio Telecommunication Technology Co. Limited, newest entrant in the field of access network solutions in the world, launched SpideRadio telecommunication products in Sri Lanka revolutionising the possibilities of 5G for Sri Lanka’s digital landscape. Hyperjet Technologies firmly believes that this would be an exciting opportunity for all Sri Lankan telecom regulators, mobile telecom operators, and subscribers. The introduction of SpideRadio’s carrier-grade Intelligent Access Network Solutions of Telecom networks is anticipated to disrupt the South Asian market for mobile communication products since Sri Lanka has the ambition of improving its network capacity in 5G technologies minimising digital divide, enabling economic growth via broadband penetration.

SpideRadio looks forward to providing solutions in coverage expansion and clarity improvement by 4G and 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) products and solutions, core network solutions, private networks such as smart factories, smart industries and university applications. This high-quality connectivity products will enable revolutionary applications in autonomous vehicles, digital finance, remote learning, work-from-home setups, e-government, Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0 applications, transforming Sri Lanka’s digital economy objectives and digital society.

SpideRadio’s diverse product portfolio ranges from Indoor and outdoor 4G and 5 G Base Stations, Indoor and outdoor 4G & 5G Dual mode DBS / ISC Base Stations, Indoor and outdoor WCDMA Base stations, as well as Indoor and outdoor GSM Base stations, catering to next generation solutions for high-speed broadband and reliable connectivity.

Mr. Chaminda Karunanayake, Managing Director of Hyperjet Technologies (Pvt) Ltd is with over 30 years of experience in creating strategies for crafting values for the telecom transformations. He started career at Cellel, Sri Lankan first mobile operator and the operation from of Millicom International Cellular pioneering mobile operator world and then largest mobile operator in the world. He is optimistic of the change SpideRadio can bring in. He said that, “SpideRadio”s broad portfolio of solutions are unique, most reliable, scalable and affordable backed by innovations from several R&D centres across China and Board Directors and top leadership from the USA. It is committed to enabling these latest technological developments to propel the Telecom industry forward and transform Sri Lanka. Since the large quality of products are going to be in Sri Lanka, Maldives, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal, it shall establish a fully-fledged facility for services, becoming the regional service centre of SpideRadio for South Asia.

Hyperjet Technologies (Pvt) Ltd is the undisputed leader of optical fibre cables and FTTH material with over 20 years of reputation as the largest vendor of outside plant telecom material in Sri Lanka. It holds the first and only patent in Sri Lanka for telecom innovations and is the first company in Asia to have obtained ISO 56002 Innovation Management System in 2019. Hyperjet was awarded with ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 22301, ISO 26000, ISO 27001 and ISO 45001 and ISO 56002 from Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI), Indexpo, SGS, Control Union Inspections and URS Certifications. The company is a business partner for Sri Lanka Telecom and all other telecom operators and contractors and a highest ranked vendor for quality, reliability and after sales service.

Image caption- Spideradio China and Hyperjet Technologies Sri Lanka are proud to unveil 5G technology for Telecommunications Industry of Sri Lanka

GalleryHR, a leading provider of comprehensive HR, Payroll, and Enterprise software solutions, is thrilled to announce the successful launch of its all-in-one HR service solution for John Keells Logistics (PVT) LTD (JKLL), ), one of Sri Lanka’s leading third-party logistics providers, known for its innovation and excellence in the industry. This significant achievement reflects SoftGallery‘s dedication to delivering world-class HR solutions and fostering impactful partnerships with clients across various industries

John Keells Logistics with its proven capability in delivering seamless and accurate supply chain management services across multiple industries, is already realizing significant value from the implementation of GalleryHR.

The solution, backed by SoftGallery‘s expertise, has streamlined JKLL’s HR processes, improved operational efficiency, and driven positive business outcomes, setting the foundation for future improvements.

Mr. Dilantha Perera, Chief Executive Officer of SoftGallery, stated, “We’re incredibly excited to announce this successful collaboration with John Keells Logistics. Our team, led by Mr. Susith De Silva, Chief Operating Officer, worked diligently to ensure a smooth go live. This accomplishment highlights our ability to work with top-tier companies while remaining focused on delivering tailored solutions for businesses of all sizes.”

“This collaboration speaks to the strength of our leadership and the talented team driving us forward,” added Mr. Susith De Silva. “We are confident that this project will continue to deliver strong results for John Keells Logistics, and we look forward to future success stories.”

Mr. Lasitha Manchanayake, Chief Executive Officer of John Keells Logistics, commented, “At JKLL, we are committed to continuously enhancing operational efficiency and service offerings. The integration of GalleryHR is an important step in our journey, and we are already seeing the benefits. We look forward to further leveraging SoftGallery’s expertise to strengthen our HR capabilities and achieve sustained success.”

This deployment marks the beginning of a new chapter for both SoftGallery and John Keells Logistics. As the collaboration evolves, SoftGallery will continue driving advancements in HR technology and delivering solutions that empower JKLL to reach new milestones.

About SoftGallery

SoftGallery is a leading provider of comprehensive, HR and Payroll solutions, and Enterprise software solutions empowering businesses of all sizes to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and elevate their HR capabilities. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, SoftGallery offers an all-in-one platform that caters to a wide range of HR needs, from talent acquisition and onboarding to payroll management and performance reviews.

Image Caption: The teams of GalleryHR and John Keels Logistics celebrate the successful launch of their innovative HR service solution.

H Studio held its first year anniversary dress making awards ceremony at the BMICH on Saturday November 2. It was held under the patronage of Director and Instructor Mrs. Hajara Farhad.

Jeza Fashions Directress Jeeza Jameel was present as chief guest and Talent Hub Founder and Instructor Mrs. Fazliya Rameez were present as guest of honour.

This year 75 students received dress making from guests.

Mementos were presented to guests and including media personnel for their media coverage.