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EDEX Mid-Year Expo 2025, Unlocking Opportunities for Tomorrow’s Leaders

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EDEX Mid-Year Expo 2025, Sri Lanka’s premier education and career fair, will return on September 13th–14th to the BMICH, Colombo. This highly anticipated event will open doors for students, job seekers, and professionals to explore education pathways and career opportunities both locally and internationally.  

This year’s expo will consist of around 50 leading educational institutions, 10 corporates, and direct overseas exhibitors from Dubai and Indonesia, giving attendees access to higher education and employment opportunities in Sri Lanka and abroad. The expo fulfills its ongoing mission of inspiring and empowering Sri Lankan youth to become globally competitive. 

“Our focus has always been to provide the youth with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities they require to achieve success in an ever-changing world. EDEX Mid-Year Expo is a bridge to global competitiveness; it’s not just a platform for education and careers,” said EDEX Chairman, Mr. Mahinda Galagedara.  

Going beyond education, EDEX 365, the CSR of EDEX initiative will present a special event in Kekirawa on September 5th, under the theme “Better Health for Better Education.” Understanding that health is an essential element of learning, EDEX will carry out a hearing impairment screening project for 1,000 Grade 1 students over 28 schools in the Kekirawa Education Zone. 

Ten qualified doctors will join the EDEX team to do screenings as part of the project, which has been organized in partnership with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, Rathmalana Audiology Center, and K20 Society. To guarantee that no child is left behind in school because of hearing impairments, the Rathmalana Audiology Center will use modern digital mechanisms to further evaluate identified cases and provide hearing aid support to underprivileged children.  

“This initiative demonstrates our deep commitment to empowering the youth by addressing important but frequently disregarded barriers to education. We are making a long-lasting difference where it is most needed, by investing EDEX’s resources to this cause,” shared EDEX Mid Year Expo 2025 Project Chairman, Mr. Chathushika Nissanka. 

This year’s expo will also feature a strong focus on career readiness. The event will introduce practical career development tools such as the Career Key psychometric test, provided through EDEX Careers, allowing the youth to identify career pathways that align with their strengths and aspirations. Additionally, visitors will have the opportunity to network with direct international participants, explore study options in Dubai, Indonesia, and other countries, as well as obtain insightful information about future employment and skill trends from leading corporates. With on-the-spot guidance and pathways to both higher education and careers, the event aims to equip the Sri Lankan youth with the tools they require to thrive in a competitive global environment. 

For the second time, EDEX has partnered with the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) for the Mid-Year Expo 2025. ISIC, which is approved by UNESCO, is the only international student identity card in the world that can be used to prove your student status and get access to over 150,000 offers in more than 98 countries. Some of the offers in Sri Lanka include 10% off at Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, Dinemore, Baskin-Robbins, and many more. Visitors are encouraged to visit their stalls to get to know more about the International Student Identity Card.  

The event is endorsed by the Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Education, Higher Education & Vocational Education, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Ministry of Labour, and Ministry of Environment, acknowledging its national significance. Strategic partners include the Employers Federation of Ceylon, Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, and Ceylon Careers Guidance Association, further enhancing the impact and reach of the initiative.  

The expo is powered by prestigious partners, including APIIT and Mogo Media Academy as Platinum Sponsors, and CINEC Campus as the Gold Sponsor. Allianz Insurance Lanka Ltd will serve as the Insurance Partner, American Water as the Official Hydration Partner, and PR Wire as the PR Partner. 

“Your Writer by Nazran Baba” will also be featured at the event, adding even more value. Dedicated to helping professionals and students land their dream jobs, our top-rated professional writing service specializes in crafting LinkedIn profiles, cover letters, and resumes that showcase abilities, accomplishments, and potential. Their goal is to enable individuals to thrive in their careers and speak with confidence. 

The expo will be open to the public from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on both days in Colombo. With unrivalled access to education, skills, and career guidance, EDEX Mid-Year Expo 2025 promises to empower Sri Lanka’s youth to be globally competitive.

Don’t miss this opportunity to shape your future. Be part of the change at EDEX Mid-Year Expo 2025. 

The Distinguished Head Table at the Media Briefing of the EDEX Mid-Year Expo, 2025.

Drugs worth over Rs. 310 million found in a parcel received by airmail

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Sri Lanka Customs Makes Major Narcotics Detection at Colombo Cargo Express
Seeduwa, September 3, 2025 –

Officers of the Narcotics Control Unit (NCU) of Sri Lanka Customs, during routine enforcement operations, carried out the opening of seven suspicious parcels today at Colombo Cargo Express.

These parcels had been detained since January 2025 based on intelligence and suspicion of containing narcotic substances.

Upon examination, a significant haul of dangerous narcotics was uncovered.

The detection included 23,642 MDMA (Ecstasy) pills valued at LKR 236,420,000, 98 grams of Methamphetamine (ICE) valued at LKR 2,450,000, 993 grams of “Mandy” valued at LKR 14,895,000, 1,445 grams of Cocaine valued at LKR 57,800,000, and 25 Kush oil vapes valued at LKR 250,000.
Altogether, the total street value of the detection amounts to an estimated LKR 311,815,000.

The detection highlights the continued vigilance and professionalism of Narcotics Control Unit (NCU) of Sri Lanka Customs in preventing the smuggling of narcotics into the country. It also reflects the strong operational collaboration between Narcotics Control Unit (NCU) of Sri Lanka Customs and the Police Narcotics Bureau in combating international drug trafficking networks.
The seized narcotics have been formally handed over to the Police Narcotics Bureau for further investigations and court proceedings. Narcotics Control Unit (NCU) of Sri Lanka Customs reiterates its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation from the dangers of narcotics smuggling through proactive intelligence-driven enforcement and inter-agency cooperation.

Mr. Andre Fernando Recognized for His Leadership in Strengthening Regional Business Ties.

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The Global Federation of Sri Lankan Business Councils (GFSLBC) held its inaugural Annual General Meeting recently at the Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo, under the theme “Uniting Global Sri Lankan Businesses – Moving Forward.” The two-day summit brought together entrepreneurs from 15 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, Canada, and India, to focus on expanding global trade relations, attracting investments, and channeling the expertise of Sri Lankan entrepreneurs worldwide into the national economy.

Mr. Andre Fernando, President of the Sri Lanka Bangladesh Business Cooperation Council of the National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka (NCCSL) and Managing Director of MAC Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, was recognized for his outstanding leadership and contributions towards strengthening regional business cooperation. The honor was conferred by His Excellency President Anura Kumara Dissanayake during the federation’s inaugural session.

This recognition not only reflects Mr. Fernando’s personal dedication but also highlights a shared vision of building stronger regional partnerships and positioning Sri Lanka as a dynamic player in global markets.


The GFSLBC summit is expected to serve as a catalyst for collaboration, enabling Sri Lanka to harness the collective strength of its global business diaspora to create new opportunities for trade, investment, and sustainable economic growth

SAARC Children’s Literary Festival 2025: ‘Celebrating Folktales through Children’sLiterature

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Home Lands’ Pentara Residencies Breaks Ground: Colombo’s Landmark Twin Towers Rise at Thummulla

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The ground breaking ceremony of Pentara Residencies, Colombo’s most iconic twin-tower development by Home Lands Group, was successfully held on Thursday, 28th August 2025 at Thummulla Handiya, Colombo.

The event was graced by the Minister of Urban Development, Construction and Housing, Hon. Anura Karunathilaka, Chairman of the Urban Development Authority, Eng. (Mr) Kumudu Lal, Chairman of the Condominium Management Authority, Eng. (Mr) Bandula Karunarathne, Director General of the Board of Investment, Mrs. Renuka M Weerakoon, along with senior government officials, distinguished invitees, customers, and well-wishers.

Addressing the audience, Minister of Urban Development, Construction and Housing, Hon. Anura Karunathilaka noted:
“Private sector companies like Home Lands bring in large-scale investment, generate employment, and contribute significantly through billions in tax revenue. Pentara Residencies project alone contributes nearly Rs. 15 billion in taxes. Projects of this magnitude bring in foreign exchange to the country and tax revenue to the government which in turn enable the government to provide housing to low-income groups and support essential public services across health, transport, and education. Additionally, Pentara will create substantial job opportunities, further boosting the economy. I wish Pentara all the success”

Also speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Nalin Herath, Chairman/Managing Director of Home Lands Group, said:

“Pentara is the largest residential real estate investment by a Sri Lankan developer, with an investment of USD 110 million, equivalent to around Rs. 35 billion. Beyond this scale, the project contributes significantly to the national economy — not only by bringing much-needed foreign exchange into Sri Lanka, but also by contributing billions of rupees in taxes to the government through this single investment.”

Having obtained all relevant approvals and clearances, Pentara Residencies continues to move forward, offering 45+ star-class amenities, including Sri Lanka’s first five star floating sky restaurant, the Sri Lanka’s first cantilevered sky pool, and an iconic sky bridge connecting the twin towers at level 30. Rising over 40 levels, the twin towers will house 362 units, featuring Deluxe Apartments, Sky Villas, Penthouses, and Sky Mansions. In just two and a half months since its launch, 50% of the units have already been sold, reflecting strong confidence from both local and international buyers.

The ground breaking of Pentara Residencies in Thummulla Handiya, successfully concluded with the laying of foundation stones, religious observances, and fellowship, officially marking the start of this landmark project, set to redefine luxury living in Colombo.

Image Caption – Chairman, Condominium Management Authority – Eng. (Mr) Bandula Karunarathne, Director, Home Lands Group – Mrs. Harshani Herath, Chairman/Managing Director, Home Lands Group – Mr. Nalin Herath, Minister of Urban Development, Construction and Housing, Hon. Anura Karunathilaka, Chairman, Urban Development Authority – Eng. (Mr) Kumudu Lal, Director General,  Board of Investment – Mrs. Renuka M Weerakoon, Architect Philip Weeraratne

A Veteran Officer Rises to the Helm of Sri Lanka Customs

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The Department of Sri Lanka Customs enters a new chapter in its long history with the appointment of Mr. Seevali Arukgoda as its Director General, effective 26th August 2025. With this appointment, he becomes the 45th Head of Customs since the Department’s inception in 1809.

Mr. Arukgoda’s career is a story of steady dedication and professional excellence. Joining Sri Lanka Customs in 1989 as an Assistant Superintendent, he has earned the unique distinction of being the first officer in the Department’s history to ascend through every rank and reach the highest position of the institution, the Director General position. Over his 36 years of unblemished service, he has distinguished himself both locally and internationally, most notably through his strong association with the World Customs Organization (WCO). Recognized as an accredited WCO expert, he served two terms with the Organization, contributing to key global initiatives in Customs and Border Management, and gaining international experience.

Within Sri Lanka Customs, his leadership has been pivotal. As Head of the Internal Affairs Unit, Mr. Arukgoda built a reputation as a strict disciplinarian and a relentless campaigner against corruption. His stewardship has also coincided with record-breaking revenue performances over the past three years. In his role as Media Spokesman, he has played a vital role in enhancing the public image of Customs, bridging communication between the institution and the people.

Academically, Mr. Arukgoda combines legal and administrative expertise. He holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from Buckinghamshire New University in the United Kingdom and a Master’s Degree in Customs Administration from the Postgraduate Institute of Management, University of Sri Jayewardenepura. A proud alumnus of Dharmaraja College, Kandy, he exemplifies a tradition of discipline, integrity, and service.

With his appointment, Sri Lanka Customs looks ahead to continuing its role as a guardian of national revenue, border protection, and trade facilitation under the guidance of an experienced and respected leader.

The ‘It’s About Time’ Travelling History Museum in Colombo between 19-23 August 2025

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           The ‘It’s About Time’ Travelling History Museum opened its doors to the public at the Colombo Public Library on 19th August 2025. Since its inception in February 2019, the museum has visited 11 towns across 10 districts and 7 provinces, including Jaffna, Kandy, Kurunegala, Badulla, Batticaloa, Mannar, and Galle. Drawing on feedback from more than 52,000 visitors, it has been reconceptualised for a renewed visitor experience. The updated iteration will be open to the public for the first time in Colombo from 19 to 23 August, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily.

“It’s About Time” aims to deepen understanding of Sri Lanka’s post-independence history by encouraging reflection and dialogue. Rather than focusing on a traditional history-book approach, the museum uses interactive and multimedia exhibits to engage visitors with the stories of everyday people. It offers a space to explore multiple historical perspectives, reconnect with a shared heritage, and consider how citizens can shape the future of Sri Lanka.

The era from the 1940s to the 2000s are depicted in a manner that allows visitors to understand the history of Sri Lanka and the important events that shaped society to what it is today, starting from the Swabasha movement to the economic crisis of 2022.

The official opening of the museum brought together stakeholders from government, civil society, media, and the diplomatic community. Distinguished guests included Hon. Muneer Mulaffer, Deputy Minister of National Integration; H.E. Carmen Moreno, Ambassador of the European Union to Sri Lanka and the Maldives; Ms. Sarah Hasselbarth, Deputy Head of Mission of the German Embassy to Sri Lanka and the Maldives; and Vraîe Cally Balthazaar, Mayor of Colombo.

“This travelling museum connects us to the real stories and lived experiences of Sri Lankans, giving us a chance to understand different perspectives. It offers a meaningful space to reflect on how we can build a shared future together,” highlighted the H.E. Carmen Moreno.

Emphasising the European Union’s and Germany’s shared commitment to promoting innovative approaches in Sri Lanka for social cohesion, Ms. Sarah Hasselbarth noted that “this museum invites visitors to engage – through interactive exhibits, asking questions, and reflecting on different perspectives. It opens a space where people can challenge their own assumptions and learn about the experiences of others. In doing so, it transforms history from something distant and static into something living, relevant, and shared.”

The new iteration of the ‘It’s About Time’ Traveling History Museum is implemented by the Collective for Historical Dialogue & Memory (CHDM); previous museums were implemented in collaboration with Search for Common Ground (SFCG). The museum is supported by the Strengthening Social Cohesion and Peace in Sri Lanka (SCOPE) program, which is co-funded by the European Union and the German Federal Foreign Office and is implemented by GIZ in partnership with the Government of Sri Lanka.

BY NELUM BUDDHADASA

Asia Securities Launches ‘Athena’ – A Pioneering Platform for CSE’s Online Investors

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Innovative offering, the first to fully integrate the global trading solution TradingView in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s leading stockbroker, Asia Securities, has launched ‘Athena’, the country’s first and only equity trading platform fully integrated with TradingView, an online trading and analytics platform and social network used by over 100 million investors across 200 countries.

Athena combines advanced charting, customizable analytics, and real-time execution within a sleek, intuitive interface, reinforced by Asia Securities’ award-winning research and market insights. It marks a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s capital markets journey, offering investors unprecedented control, agility, and access to global-standard tools on a single platform.  

Speaking at the launch, Asia Securities Chairman, Dumith Fernando, highlighted the vision behind the development of the platform. 

“Asia Securities is pleased to be the first to introduce such a sophisticated trading platform to Sri Lanka. Athena was designed to deliver both insight and innovation, two of our core values, to our clients. This platform empowers our growing base of online investors, supports the digitalization of Sri Lanka’s capital market, and aligns it with global standards. Local investors have played an incredible role in creating a vibrant stock market over the last five years. We have always valued the role of the local investor, and we want to support them with even more useful tools in their capital market journey. We are dedicated to advancing Sri Lanka’s capital markets by investing in the highest standards of service, integrity, and innovation for clients. Athena does exactly that,” he said. 

Independent traders previously had to rely on fragmented tools to conduct analyses and trade online. Athena eliminates that complexity by offering mobile and web trading, advanced order placement, custom watchlists, real-time portfolio monitoring, market depth views, and personalized alerts, all in one place. With this platform, Asia Securities once again sets the benchmark as Sri Lanka’s most forward-thinking investment firm, advancing its mission to modernize the country’s capital markets and raise investor expectations. 

The launch crowns a year of milestones for Asia Securities. The firm emerged as Sri Lanka’s No. 1 stockbroker by turnover market share on the Colombo Stock Exchange, continuing similar achievements in the last few years. It was also named ‘Best Stockbroker – Sri Lanka’ for the sixth time at the FinanceAsia Awards 2025 and saw its research team recognized as ‘Best Stockbroking Research Team’ at the CFA Society Capital Market Awards 2025. These achievements coincide with the firm’s 35th anniversary, underscoring its enduring leadership in the industry. 

Captions: Asia Securities Chairman Dumith Fernando addressing the launch event of the ‘Athena’ trading platform on Tuesday (26).

Dumith Fernando – Chairman, Asia Securities, Shiyam Subaulla – CEO, Asia Securities Equities, Udith Wickramasinghe – Head of Sales, Asia Securities Equities at the launch event of the ‘Athena’ trading platform on Tuesday.

KDU Inter-Faculty Drama Competition 2025 – Grand Finale

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The Grand Finale of the KDU Inter-Faculty Drama Competition 2025 was held on 13th August 2025 at the FGS Auditorium under the theme “Breaking Barriers: Voices for Gender Equality.” The event was graced by Vice Chancellor Rear Admiral Dammika Kumara as the Chief Guest, with Prof. Saumya Liyanage and renowned actress Ms. Umali Thilakarathna as Guests of Honour.
The competition, organized by the Faculty of Management, Social Sciences and Humanities (FMSH) and the Centre for Gender Equity and Equality (CGEE) in collaboration with the English Literary Club (ELC), showcased the creativity of students across faculties.
17 scripts were initially submitted from 10 faculties, with four dramas advancing to the Grand Finale; Dewiyange Padama (FAHS), Villanku (Tamil Drama, FOL), Theenduwa (FOL), and Gehenu Pirimi (FOL). A special workshop was earlier conducted by veteran actress Kaushalya Fernando and actor Nilanka Sepala Dahanayaka, while Mr. Uvindu Abeysuriya mentored the finalists.
Results & Awards
🥇 Winner – Theenduwa (FOL)
🥈 1st Runner-up – Villanku (FOL)
🥉 2nd Runner-up – Dewiyange Padama (FAHS)
3rd Runner-up – Gehenu Pirimi (FOL)
⭐ Most Popular Drama – Dewiyange Padama (FAHS)
📜 Best Script Award – Aduren Upan Alokaya by SPDHS Senadheera (FOT)
Individual Awards:
Best Actor – Kaveen Jauasundara (Theenduwa, FOL)
Best Actress – S.B.P. Wijesooriya (Dewiyange Padama, FAHS)
Best Supporting Actor – Steve Gomesz (Theenduwa, FOL)
Best Supporting Actress – Dahami Satharasinghe (Villanku, FOL)
Merit Awards: Punsara Ariyasinghe (Ominigender), D.S.S. Herath (Dewiyange Padama), A.M.F. Shifa (Villanku), Tamashi Singhabah (Theenduwa), Avindya Thalakotunna (Gehenu Pirimi), and Best Musical Performance (Gehenu Pirimi).
The judging panel included Mr. Asanka Gurusinghe, Mr. Lakshan Waththuhewa, Ms. Taniya Weerarathna, Mr. Uvindu Abeysuriya, and Ms. Lakmini Nayanashanthi.
Certificates, merit awards, and individual awards were presented by Lt Col K.P. Rohan Kumara and Ms. Umali Thilakarathna, while the winners’ awards were presented by the Vice Chancellor and the Guests of Honour, The evening featured a welcome dance by the KDU Dancing Circle and musical performances by the Beige Band Team, keeping the audience engaged. The overall competition was coordinated by Ms. Manuri Pabasari Waleboda, Lecturer, Department of Social Sciences, FMSH, under the guidance of Dr. Nirosha Wedasinghe, Director of CGEE.

World Friendship Festival 2025 in Narita Celebrates Sri Lankan and Thai Cultures

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August 16, Narita City, Chiba Prefecture – The vibrant multicultural spirit of Narita came alive today as the World Friendship Festival 2025 opened with a colorful ceremony at the bus rotary in front of “Soyora” in Narita New Town.

What makes this year’s festival especially significant is that it has been organized by the Japanese community to celebrate the rich cultures of Sri Lanka and Thailand, reflecting the growing bonds of friendship among the people of Narita, many of whom trace their roots to these countries.

The opening ceremony featured the playing of the national anthems of Japan, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, followed by warm greetings from dignitaries including the Mayor of Narita, Hon. Issei Koizumi, the Chairperson of Narita City Council, Mr. Hiroshi Araki, members of the House of Representatives, and distinguished representatives from the local community. The Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Japan also delivered remarks, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange in strengthening bilateral ties.

Adding to the excitement, the opening performance showcased a traditional Sri Lankan fire dance, drawing enthusiastic applause from the audience. A commemorative photo session with all related participants marked the spirit of unity that defines the event.

The festival, which runs from August 16–17, 2025, offers visitors an opportunity to experience authentic cultural performances, traditional cuisine, and art from both Sri Lanka and Thailand.

Speaking to Narita Cable TV, the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Japan praised the initiative of the Japanese organizers, stating that the festival is a wonderful example of people-to-people friendship. He also expressed his warm impressions of Narita City’s hospitality and commitment to cultural harmony.

The Sri Lankan Embassy in Japan has also extended its full support to the festival, further underlining the strong partnership between the two countries and their shared values of friendship, diversity, and cultural celebration.

The World Friendship Festival 2025 is expected to attract large crowds over the weekend, creating a joyful atmosphere where the communities of Japan, Sri Lanka, and Thailand come together in unity and celebration.

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