April 26, 2024
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4min

govi.ai, a leading innovator in agricultural IoT solutions, presented a very successful program at the recent Future Harvest Exhibition held at the Bandaranayake Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) from March 29 to 31.  The govi.ai team showcased their innovative agri tech solutions in a live demo station, catered to empowering farmers (from smallholder to commercial) to adopt a data-driven approach to farming. Hon. (Dr.) Harsha de Silva, M.P. was one of the many visitors to the govi.ai demo station, commenting, “As a modern farmer myself, I found the tech innovations by govi.ai most appropriate in moving the needle in improving the efficiency of farmers. Agri tech is an absolute essential element in pushing up farmer productivity, and I hope govi.ai will success in getting the rather tech-averse farmers to see the benefits of this technology.”

 



 

govi.ai utilises Sri Lankan designed, engineered, and assembled IoT technology to enable farmers, and farm operators, to monitor and manage their farm operations remotely, and automatically, through its suite of integrated sensors and controllers. Users can monitor farm (open field, poly tunnel, greenhouse) conditions such as temperature, humidity, light, resource utilisation, CO2 and more. Dashboards provide real-time information to aid in planning of crop planting and harvesting, and managing important resources such as water, fertilizer, and electricity. This information not only supports farmers, but provides useful insights, down the agri value chain, for consumers to know the origins of their food produce.

Speaking of the event, Rajive Silva (CEO and Director of Azend Technologies), mentioned, “This expo was a valuable opportunity for the agricultural sector in highlighting the power of agrotechnology solutions such as govi.ai, in empowering stakeholders in one of Sri Lanka’s most important industries. At govi.ai we are committed to leveraging our technical expertise in providing the agriculture sector with resilient, data-driven solutions that both uplift communities, and connect the entire value chain, from farm to fork.” govi.ai, a product of Azend Technologies, has been recognised both locally and regionally, winning at the NBQSA National ICT Awards 2023, as well as representing Sri Lankan Agri ICT innovation at the World Agri Tech Innovation Summit, both in the UK and UAE. To learn more about govi.ai and how it can help you optimise your farming operations, visit: www.govi.ai

 



 


March 13, 2024
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4min

March 13, 2024: Sri Lanka’s fastest growing and largest primary healthcare provider, Medihelp Hospitals, proudly announced its participation in the Medicare 2024 Health Expo, where free check-ups were offered at the exhibition held at the BMICH, Colombo, from March 1 to 3, 2024.

During the expo, Medihelp Hospitals offered free check-ups to over 2,500 visitors, covering a range of vital health metrics. These included height, weight, body mass index, blood sugar levels, blood pressure and comprehensive vision tests utilizing advanced equipment.

 



 

Additionally, attendees received personalized health risk assessments along with expert advice and treatment recommendations from a team of dedicated doctors.

The Medihelp Hospitals stall became a focal point of the event, attracting visitors in large numbers from various regions and age groups across the country. Furthermore, to extend their support beyond the expo, attendees were provided with special discount coupons redeemable at any of the 18 Medihelp Hospitals branches.

Commenting on the initiative, Medihelp Hospitals Chief Operating Officer Nishantha Jayamanne said: “We are delighted to have had the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of our community through this event. It is our commitment to promote wellness and accessibility, and we will continue to do so as we move forward.”

Moreover, Dr. Amal Harsha De Silva, Chairman of the Organizing Committee of Medicare Exhibition said: “The exhibition was a resounding success, as we witnessed thousands of visitors over the three-day period. On behalf of our organizing committee, I would like to thank Medihelp Hospitals and all our exhibitors, visitors, sponsors, for all their support and participation.”

This participation in Medicare 2024 Health Expo is aligned with Medihelp Hospitals’ corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, furthering their mission to make quality healthcare accessible to all segments of society.

Medicare, the National Healthcare Exhibition, stands as Sri Lanka’s largest healthcare event, catering to both B2C and B2B sectors. Under the patronage of the Ministry of Health of Sri Lanka and in collaboration with specialist medical associations, Medicare aims to disseminate crucial healthcare awareness to the public. It serves as a platform to showcase the latest advancements in modern healthcare, disease prevention, treatment methodologies, cutting-edge technology, and services available in both local and global medical sectors.

Founded in 1985 as a medical diagnostic laboratory, Medihelp Hospitals today has grown to encompass a network of 18 Healthcare Facilities in Horana, Nugegoda, Piliyandala, Moratuwa, Homagama, Kalutara, Panadura, Beruwala, Mathugama, Bandaragama, Ingiriya, Bulathsinhala, Athurugiriya, Mount Lavinia and Colombo. The chain operates 10 24-hour OPD/ETU facilities, 10 digital X-ray units, 13 pharmacies 14 fully automated diagnostic laboratories and over 250 sample collection centers across three districts,.

Medihelp Hospitals offer a wide range of specialized medical services, including dental care, orthopedic surgery, dermatology, gastroenterology, cardiology, radiology (including echocardiography and digital X-ray), ophthalmology, and obstetrics. Their dedicated team of highly skilled healthcare professionals ensures the provision of comprehensive and specialized medical care. Medihelp Hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology to deliver superior patient services. With a focus on patient well-being and quality healthcare, Medihelp Hospitals strive to meet the diverse healthcare needs of the community they serve.

 



 


December 21, 2023
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4min

 



 

 

Saegis Campus, a leading higher education institution in Sri Lanka with an unparallel reputation for imparting world-class knowledge, recently held its graduation ceremony, titled Saegis Convocation, on the 30 November 2023 at the BMICH, and saw 513 students graduating with flying colours.

The event was graced by Senior Professor Nilanthi de Silva, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, as Chief Guest, Professor Mohamed Abdel-Maguid, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Dean of Canterbury Christ Church University, UK, as Guest of Honour. Other distinguished guests include Mrs. H. D. C. Janaki, Additional Secretary, Non-State Higher Education Division, Ministry of Education Sri Lanka and Mr. Suriya Bibile, Deputy General Manager, Pearson UK.

Mr. Bandara Dissanayake, Chairman Saegis Campus and Sakya Group of Higher Education, a renowned personality in the higher education arena in the country, gave a heart-warming welcome speech, followed by Prof. Nalaka Jayakody, Vice Chancellor of Saegis Campus, conferring the degrees.

The degrees conferred include Master of Business Administration, BSc (Hons) Business Management and BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance, all awarded by the Canterbury Christ Church University, and programmes such as Bachelor of Information Technology and Bachelor of Business Administration degrees from Saegis Campus, which are approved by the Ministry of Education, and recognized by the UGC.

Further, other qualifications conferred include Pearson BTEC HND in Business Management and Software Engineering, and the Advanced Diploma in Business and Computer Science by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA).

Saegis Campus continues its goals to produce high-performing and talented students graduates, who will go onto be vivid contributors to the economy and society whilst still progressing their knowledge and skills. Strategically located in the heart of Nugegoda, Saegis Campus provides one with a distinctive learning experience with state-of-the-art facilities and an array of support services including many complimentary ones grounded to bring out the best out of students in every possible way.

Saegis Campus also provides students with guaranteed industry placements through Ministry of Education approved undergraduate degrees, including providing students with the Interest Free Student Loan Scheme introduced by the Government. For more information, please contact Saegis Campus on 0770430000 or visit www.saegis.edu.lk.

 



 

 


December 14, 2023
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3min

 



 

 

IMC Campus held its inaugural graduation ceremony on the 5th of December 2023, at the BMICH in affiliation with the IIC University of Technology. The ceremony was honoured by the presence of the Chief Guest, Dr. Ajith Colonne, Dr. Kavya Jayakody (Founder/Director of IMC Campus) and Dr. Engineer. Priyantha Morapitiya (Senior Academic & Lecturer).

Over 90 students were awarded their Bachelors and Masters Degrees by the dignitaries present. The ceremony organisation led by Mr. Amal Wijenayaka (Head of Academics) & Ms. Sarala Udadewaarachchi (Center Manager) was a roaring success.

The IMC Campus is an approved partner of IIC University of Technology, Cambodia holding rights to deliver its Bachelors, Master and Doctoral programs in Sri Lanka. IMC Campus takes pride in their partner University being fully accredited by the University Grants Commission (U.G.C.) Sri Lanka, Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC), International Associations of Universities (IAU) and Association of the Universities of Asia and the Pacific (AUAP).

The IMC Campus offers study programs in various disciplines of Doctoral Studies (Ph.D. and DBA), Masters in Business Administration (MBA), BBA in Management, BCom in Banking and Finance, BEd in Education, BEd in Early Childhood Education and BBA in Supply Chain Management in Sri Lanka. The eminent lecture panel of the IMC Campus strives to maintain a student succession rate of over 97% and help working professionals to secure a higher educational qualification while maintaining while managing their demanding work schedules and personal life.The January 2024 intakes are now open for admission, interested candidates are able to send in their applications to info@imceducation.lk or get in touch with a student counsellor for guidance on the application process through or 011 2 942 922 or 0772 922 922.

 


 

 


November 27, 2023
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3min

 



 

 

The certificate awarding ceremony of the ‘Sethru Ayurvedic Beauty Academy’, the only Ayurvedic beauty-related course provider registered with the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission (TVEC), was recently held in Colombo. During the ceremony held at the BMICH in Colombo on, certificates were awarded to more than 170 students who successfully completed study programmes such as the Advanced Certificate/ Diploma in Cosmetic Technology, Certificate in Bath and Body Care, Certificate/ Advanced Certificate/ Diploma in Ayurvedic Beauty Care, Certificate/ Diploma in Ayurvedic Abhyanga, and Certificate in Aroma.

Founded in 2014 by Dr. Mahesh Athuraliya, the Sethru Ayurvedic Beauty Academy’s headquarters and another branch are located in Wattala. It is the first Ayurvedic Beauty Academy and the educational institution conducting study programmes in beauty products, to have registered with the TVEC. Some of the courses offered by them are not offered by any other related institution. The Academy has also secured the ISO 9001 quality certification. A team of medical professionals with decades-long experience in the field conducts their study programmes. The students are trained in manufacturing both western and Ayurvedic beauty products such as day cream, night cream, fairness cream, pimple cream, foot cream, body lotion, and body butter, using the latest technology. Most of their students have started their own beauty product businesses with relevant Government registrations, and become high income professionals by present. Commenting on the certificate awarding ceremony which was held successfully, Dr. Athuraliya said that the students who follow study programmes offered by the Academy in accordance with SLS and other standards have been able to become highly respected beauty professionals and successful entrepreneurs. He requested the students to choose a qualified institution such as theirs registered with the TVEC and other related institutions if they wish to pursue a study programme with the aim of achieving such a goal.

 



 

 


November 2, 2023
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4min

 



 

 

The Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) continued its legacy of excellence in the field of Human Resource Management (HRM) at its annual graduation ceremony on October 26, 2023, held at the prestigious Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) in Colombo.

Under the theme “Elevating Excellence, Celebrating HRM Professionals,” the event commemorated the dedication and achievements of 699 graduates who completed various HRM programs. These programs included BSc and MSc degrees in Human Resource Management and Development from the University of Salford, Manchester, UK, as well as CIPM’s own Chartered Qualification in Human Resource Management (CQHRM), Professional Qualification in Human Resource Management (PQHRM), Diploma in Training and Human Resource Development (DTHRD), Diploma in Industrial Relations & Employment Law (DIREL), and Diploma in Occupational Safety & Health (DOSH).

The graduation ceremony was graced by the presence of Mr Sanath Manatunge, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC, who was the Chief Guest for the event. His wealth of experience and leadership in the corporate world added prestige to the occasion, and his address inspired the graduates to continue striving for excellence in their HRM careers.

Mr Ken Wijayakumar, the President of CIPM, also addressed the gathering, offering insights and his vision for the future of HR: “The Chartered qualification in HRM (CQHRM) introduced in 2020 received accreditation from the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development in the UK in 2021. “Remember, obtaining a qualification is just the beginning; to excel as an HR professional or Manager, it is crucial to continually enhance your knowledge, skills and attitudes to meet the dynamic demands of the industry”, he added.

Mr. U.A.C. Obeyesekere, the CEO of CIPM Sri Lanka, delivered a heartfelt Vote of Thanks, expressing gratitude to all the attendees, sponsors, and individuals involved in organising the successful event.” All these graduates will be stepping into a new phase in their lives as they embark on furthering their professional careers in Human Resource Management. I fervently hope that every student who graduates with CIPM will experience an excellent new beginning in their professional career,” he said.

The audience included the graduates’ proud parents, CIPM’s Executive Council members, and the dedicated faculty and staff who played a pivotal role in the students’ education and development.

The CIPM’s annual graduation ceremony is a testament to the organisation’s commitment to promoting the highest HRM education and development standards. Graduates carry their qualifications into the professional world and uphold the values and principles instilled by CIPM, setting a high standard for HR professionals in Sri Lanka.

The meticulously planned ceremony added an air of grandeur to the event, creating lasting and cherished memories for all in attendance.

 



 

 


October 9, 2023
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3min

 



 

 

A grand event to award certificates to those who followed the Certificate and Advanced Course in Pharmacy Practice conducted by the Ceylon Pharma College, and to relaunch the college was recently held at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) in Colombo. The new logo and website of the college were unveiled during the event. Ceylon Pharma College conducts four courses, namely, Certificate Course in Pharmacy Practice, the Advance Course In Pharmacy Practice, the Professional Pharmacist Training, and workshops, with the aim of creating pharmacists, pharmacist assistants, professionals and entrepreneurs.

The uniqueness of the college’s courses is the ability to attend them from home through a special educational website. The courses are designed to cover all aspects including, but not limited to, prescription reading, Product identification, dispensing practice, aware about pharmaceutical drugs, and storage. The specialty of each course conducted by the college is that they provide the foundation that one needs to progress from Pharmacy Assistant to the highest professional level, to develop knowledge of pharmaceutical drugs, and even to become an entrepreneur with their own pharmacy. “Everyone who successfully completes these courses is given a valuable certificate and our website (www.pharmacollege.lk) will facilitate job search. This will also reduce the workload of the pharmacy owners in finding the staff they need. As a pharmacist who has been in the field of pharmacy for more than a decade, I am able to conduct these courses legally, practically and more accurately. Our office is located in the West Tower of the World Trade Centre (WTC) Colombo, and we have published information on recruiting students for new courses on our official Facebook page.” said the Chief Executive Officer of the college, Dilip Fonseka.

 



 

 


September 26, 2023
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4min

 



 

 

AB Mauri Lanka, one of the world’s leading global brands in the yeast and bakery ingredients industry, recently recognized key employee excellence at a special event, “AB Mauri Star Awards 2023 – “Rising Above. Leading the Way.”

Affiliated with Associated British Foods plc and with a presence in 52 plants across more than 30 countries, AB Mauri maintains a strong commitment towards delivering premium quality ingredients that empower industrial and artisan bakers everywhere. In keeping with that globally delivered promise, the company took the time to commend a dedicated team whose performance excellence was acknowledged at the Awards Night this year.

The AB Mauri Star Awards 2023 celebrated the outstanding contributions of AB Mauri’s dedicated employees. Recently held at the BMICH, the event not only recognized the hard work and commitment of AB Mauri’s team but also underscored the company’s unwavering dedication to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of excellence.

The AB Mauri Star Awards 2023 recognized exceptional skills in various categories, each designed to acknowledge specific areas of achievement. The awards were divided into categories that highlighted the commitment, skills and capabilities of the team.

Good baking has always been at the heart of AB Mauri – baking excellence in the Advanced Baking category was celebrated, honouring employees who have demonstrated exceptional skill and knowledge in the art of baking, highlighting the company’s continuous commitment towards baking as both an art and a profession.

The awards commenced with Leading for Safety certificate awards by AB Mauri Lanka Director and General Manager Surajdeen Seiyad who recognized the commitment of all employees in the areas of health and safety best practices.

One highlight was “Theme 23” which focused on the best practice of baking application trial cost reductions in the baking lab setting.  In addition, there were presentations on human resources and other relevant business areas along with entertainment and dancing that kept the team entertained throughout the evening.

Creativity and teamwork were at the heart of the office competition which celebrated the ability of employees working together and creating innovative solutions. Other competitive areas included commercial sales, technical sales, office staff, depo administration staff and depo logistics staff.

The AB Mauri Star Awards 2023 was also the occasion for the relaunch of a refreshed AB Mauri website, found at www.abmauri.lk. The online presence of AB Mauri will undoubtedly boost the brand image and showcase the company’s excellent credentials to potential employees and all stakeholders.

 



 

 


September 14, 2023
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4min

 



 

 

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) recently hosted the Prize Winners Award Ceremony at the BMICH, Colombo. The event, graced by the presence of Prof. Sampath Amaratunge, Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC), Sri Lanka, recognized and honored ACCA’s high-achieving affiliates who have demonstrated unparalleled commitment to the field of accounting.

Chaaminda Kumarasiri, Vice Chairman of ACCA Sri Lanka, congratulated all the prize winners and affiliates for their outstanding accomplishments, and outlined the importance of continuous professional development and the cultivation of skills in digitalization, ESG and sustainability, communication, and ethics. Emphasizing the role of finance professionals as agents of positive change, he noted, “Today, more than ever before, our country needs skilled, committed, and ethical finance professionals with passion and purpose to make a difference.”

Prof. Sampath Amaratunge, chief guest at the occasion stated ‘In our pursuit of fortifying the nation’s economic foundations, it is imperative to enhance our management practices through an unwavering dedication to ethical conduct. The essential instrument for this endeavor is a fusion of knowledge, skill, a positive mindset, and an unwavering sense of accountability. Both public and private enterprises in our nation tirelessly strive to achieve their objectives. The robust support offered by ACCA, imparting unparalleled knowledge, is a testament to its commitment. The ACCA syllabus, meticulously designed, serves as a guiding light for students to excel in their pursuits. Addressing the award winners he said ‘ As prize winners you hold a pivotal role in shaping the future and to contribute significantly to the organizations you  serve, as these efforts inherently influence the trajectory of our nation’s advancement. ‘

Bringing much pride to both ACCA and Sri Lanka were a host of high achievers totaling 48 Sri Lankan prize winners and 78 affiliates. Their outstanding achievement stood not only as a testament to their personal commitment but also as a tribute to the unwavering dedication of ACCA, that nurtured their success.

Emerging as the cream of the crop were the top affiliates that included Abrar Fareed for September 2022, Udeshika Aluthwatta for December 2022, Gee Jayasekara for March 2023, and Navindu Harishchandra for June 2023.

Nilusha Ranasinghe, Head of South Asia at ACCA, congratulating the high achievers, stressed on the importance of ACCA’s values in shaping these professionals into ambassadors for the industry, promoting accountability, diversity, opportunity, innovation, and integrity.

As the ceremony drew to a close, ACCA Sri Lanka celebrated not only the achievements of its prize winners but also its enduring commitment to nurturing exceptional finance professionals who embody the highest standards of expertise and ethics. ACCA remains committed towards building a qualification that meets the emerging trends in accountancy and is positioned today as undoubtedly one of the most trusted and sought-after accounting qualifications across the globe, that is respected and accredited by both employers and the industry.

 


 

 


July 27, 2023
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5min

 



 

 

2023, Colombo: Norfolk Foods, a leading manufacturer of premium frozen food in Sri Lanka, recently participated as an exhibitor at the prestigious Culinary Art Food Expo 2023, held at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) recently. Under the theme ‘where QUALITY meets CONVENIENCE’, Norfolk Foods made a resounding impression, showcasing its diverse range of delectable offerings to esteemed chefs from Star Class Hotels and Restaurants.

The main objective of Norfolk Foods’ participation was to offer culinary experts an exclusive opportunity to explore the exceptional variety of products designed to elevate their culinary experiences. As the spotlight shined on the company’s presence, the expo also served as an ideal platform for Norfolk Foods to forge new partnerships with hotels and restaurants looking to exceed their customers’ expectations with its tantalising products.

One of the highlights of the event was Norfolk Foods’ product sampling which allowed interested chefs to savour the flavours and unparalleled quality of the company’s offerings. Ranging from an array of Cold Cuts and Chinese, Italian, and Arabian delicacies to the enticing sausage variants, breaded savouries, and burger options, Norfolk Foods ensured that every palate was catered to.

To further expand its repertoire, Norfolk Foods proudly introduced three new lasagna options: Beef, Seafood, and Vegetable Lasagna, complementing its existing Chicken Lasagna offering. These additions firmly underscore the company’s commitment to continually innovating and catering to diverse culinary preferences.

Ameena Ziauddin, Deputy Managing Director of Norfolk Foods Sri Lanka and Director of CP Norfolk India (CPNI) commented, “We were exuberant to participate in the esteemed Culinary Arts Exhibition 2023. Norfolk Foods has enjoyed a longstanding and fruitful partnership with the Culinary Art Association, and we owe much of our success to the talented chefs who are an integral part of this esteemed organisation. The event provided a valuable opportunity to reconnect, network, and engage with industry colleagues while proudly presenting our comprehensive range of top-quality products.”

Norfolk Foods’ devotion to quality is unwavering, ensuring that every product bears the mark of excellence. Many visitors to Sri Lanka’s most esteemed Star Class Hotels may not even realise they are enjoying Norfolk Foods’ superior offerings, seamlessly blended into exquisite menus with the utmost attention to taste and quality.

Since its establishment in 1994, Norfolk Foods has been a pioneering force in the global culinary landscape, delighting taste buds worldwide. Initially formed as a British Sri Lankan joint venture, Norfolk Foods has continuously led the way in delivering innovative, high-quality, value-added meat, poultry, fish, and vegetarian products. Norfolk’s range is produced within a state-of-the-art, ISO 22000 System Certified, and HACCP approved plant. Distinguished by the exclusive use of spiral freezing technology in Sri Lanka, Norfolk ensures optimal hygiene and product integrity.

The Culinary Art Food Expo is the most comprehensive Food and Beverage Exhibition. It covers food products and services from the processing to the consuming stage covering culinary and hospitality segments. In short, every aspect of food from the factory to the table was covered at the Expo. It attracts exhibitors from all over the world while buyers representing various segments visit Culinary Art Food Expo to view and obtain the newest products and services available and to view the latest technology on offer.

 



 

 

 



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Lanka Business News is amongst the leading online Business News portals in Sri Lanka, unique for its focus on contemporary business news relevant across multiple industries operating in the country. We present not only the news, but a perspective based on observations and possible implications of a prevailing news item. LBN also provides an insight to the impact of a global economic or industrial development, thus helping stakeholders make informed and calculated decisions.




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