March 12, 2024
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3min

12th March 2024, Colombo: For the second consecutive year, Janashakthi Group (JXG) has stepped in as the title sponsor for the Battle of the Hindus, the cricket encounter between Hindu College Colombo and Jaffna Hindu College. This sponsorship underscores Janashakthi Group’s long-standing commitment to supporting cricket in Sri Lanka, as well as its dedication to nurturing young, aspiring athletes.

 


 

With the objective of fostering camaraderie and elevating the standard of college cricket, Hindu College Colombo and Jaffna Hindu College Old Boys’ Associations (OBAs) collaboratively initiated the Annual Cricket Encounter. The inaugural match took place in Colombo 1982, followed by the second encounter hosted by Jaffna Hindu College in 1983. Due to various circumstances the match could not be conducted every year despite significant efforts by both parties. After a substantial hiatus, a 40-overs encounter was played in Colombo in 2005. The fourth match was held in Colombo in 2013, and subsequently, from 2014 to 2019, both schools alternated as hosts of the event. Following an interruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the twelfth encounter was successfully held in Colombo in 2023 with Janashakthi Group as the title sponsor. 2023 encounter concluded with Jaffna Hindu College winning the match.

The match will adhere to the rules and regulations set forth by the Sri Lanka School Cricket Association (SSCA), ensuring fair play and competitive spirit throughout the two-day event. The Battle of Hindus promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent, sportsmanship, and tradition, and Janashakthi Group takes pride in its role in supporting this event.

 


 


February 7, 2024
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3min

Colombo, Wednesday 7th February 2024:

Highlights

  • Thai Airways to resume operations between Colombo and Thailand from March 31st, 2024 onwards.  The flight ex CMB will depart on 01.04.2024.
  • MAC to be the Airline’s forefront as their proud General Sales Agent within the region for Sri Lanka and Maldives.
  • The route will resume with daily flights connecting to more than 60 plus international destinations and additional domestic ones.
  • Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic Thai Airways continued to play a pivotal role in maintaining essential air cargo services with P2C charter flights to Sri Lanka.

Expanding its subcontinent profile, Thailand’s National carrier “Thai Airways” has announced their resumption of direct flight services to Colombo, connecting the Fareast and Southwest Pacific towards the pearl of the Indian Ocean. Thailand being one of the famous leisure destinations in the region with Bangkok being its capital city is well known for nightlife, excellent cuisine and an oasis of history and culture. Bangkok being a vital hub is not only popular for tourism but also religious, economic and trade activities.

 



 

The operation of Thai Airways marks its re-entry to the Sri Lankan market after 3years of absence due to the unfortunate COVID-19 pandemic and brief 20-day operation directly into the Sri Lankan economic issue during May last year and the lack of fuel. Nevertheless, throughout the pandemic Thai Airways continued to play a pivotal role in maintaining essential air cargo services with P2C charter flights to Sri Lanka.

The airline operates to more than 60 plus destinations in Asia, Australasia, Middle, Scandinavia and Europe. Flights are being scheduled to commence from 31st March 2024 incoming and depart on 01st April 2024. The route will operate daily flights with an early morning departure out from Colombo arriving in Bangkok in the morning hours itself enabling tourists to gain more time in their respective travelling destination. Passengers who are having connecting flights beyond Thailand too have a smooth and hassle-free transfer with immediate connecting flights.

Thailand has always been a preferred leisure destination for Sri Lankans and a convenient transit hub connecting Asia, Australia & Korea-Japan. It further serves as a connecting point to Europe and Scandinavia as well.


January 31, 2024
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3min

As part of its ongoing transformation to improve the company’s overall financial performance and fortify its position in an increasingly competitive market, Oman Air has announced several strategic changes to its network, including route expansions and new service offerings.

These include the addition of a new route, Sialkot, as well as the cancellation of operations to Islamabad, Lahore, Colombo and Chittagong. Additionally, the airline will also be reducing frequencies to certain markets while increasing capacity to two current destinations.

 




 

 

In addition to the year-round destinations, three more will be operated on a seasonal basis: Trabzon during the summer season, and Zurich and Malé during winter.
Oman Air has also introduced measures to optimize its schedule, starting this summer. To better cater to the Omani market and serve key flows in and out of Oman, flight times have been revised for several of its destinations. There is an emphasis on more favorable slots to offer greater convenience for direct passengers and maximize connection windows, providing enhanced travel flexibility.

Meanwhile, the airline is continuously evaluating its strategy to adapt to changing market dynamics and identify additional opportunities. This includes maintaining alignment with government stakeholders including the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism. Oman Air remains committed to supporting the economic and social objectives outlined in Oman’s 2040 Vision while striving for growth and development.

More News about Oman Air

Source: Times of Oman

 




 

 


January 17, 2024
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6min

Curtin Colombo, the Sri Lankan campus of leading Australian university Curtin University, invites all prospective students to its Open Day on January 27th, 2024, from 10 am onwards.

 



 

The Open Day provides the perfect opportunity for students who have completed their A/L examinations or received results and are considering their higher education options to explore their future education pathways. The University offers prestigious degrees in business, engineering and IT specializations designed to maximize graduate employability.

The portfolio of computing degrees includes Software Engineering, Cyber Security, Information Technology, and Computer Systems and Networking, while Engineering degrees on offer include Civil and Construction Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Mechatronic Engineering. The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree at Curtin Colombo covers International Management, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Digital Marketing specializations.

Curtin Colombo also provides students with the option to transfer to Curtin Perth in Western Australia or any of Curtin’s international campuses, including Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai, and Mauritius offering a flexible and diverse educational experience. Importantly, Curtin University is ranked in the top 1% of universities worldwide (QS World Rankings 2023).

Noteworthily, all degrees can be completed in Sri Lanka. By choosing to study at Curtin Colombo, students not only earn a world-renowned Curtin degree but enjoy significant cost savings of up to ¾ less than when studying in Australia.

At the Open Day, students can expect to meet dedicated academics who will provide insights into Curtin Colombo’s world-class degree programs offered in partnership with Curtin University, Australia. The experienced faculty members will address queries and guide students to make informed decisions regarding their educational journey. The academics will elaborate on specific course curriculum, content delivery methods, assessments strategies, and learning outcomes aimed at developing relevant professional competencies and enhancing graduate employability.

The faculty experts will also highlight graduate employment rates, collaborations with industry partners, and responder to specific career-related questions students may have regarding their areas of interest. engaging with the dedicated academics at the Open Day, attendees can make the most out of this opportunity to chart out their academic path based on personal aptitudes and aspirations.

Additionally, personalized career counselling will be available to help students discover their career path, explore various opportunities, and learn about entry requirements and transfer pathways to Australia or any of Curtin’s other global campuses.

Furthermore, at Open Day students can gain a preview of student life by interacting with current students, enabling them to gain insights into campus activities, clubs, and the overall experience of being part of the Curtin Colombo community. The event will provide a comprehensive understanding of the academic and social aspects of studying at Curtin Colombo.

Curtin’s global connections and partnerships with over 130 institutions worldwide provide students with access to a valuable international network of industry and research collaborators. The institution’s strong industry connections and work-integrated learning opportunities enhance students’ employability. The programs in computing, engineering, and business are designed with direct input from industry partners, ensuring graduates possess the practical skills, connections, and knowledge needed to succeed in the global marketplace.

“Our Open Day enables prospective students and parents to meet our academics, and current students. Visitors can discuss programs and specialisations, career outcomes, admissions criteria, credit transfers to Australia and scholarships,” said Curtin Colombo’s Head of Computing and Business, Ms. Anjalie Gamage.

The curriculum and course delivery at Curtin Colombo are highly responsive to the changing needs of the industry. Curtin University’s engineering programs are accredited by Engineers Australia, while three (03) of the computing programs and the business administration program are recognized by the Australian Computer Society and AACSB, respectively.

Curtin Colombo provides students globally connected degrees with opportunities to transfer to Curtin University campuses in Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai, and Mauritius. Its industry-linked courses deliver hands-on learning, strong employability outcomes and access to a worldwide alumni network.

Located at the heart of Colombo, the vibrant campus offers exceptional amenities, resources, and activities, ensuring a rich and rewarding educational experience. The Curtin Colombo Open Day is an opportunity for students to explore their educational dreams and take the first step toward a brighter future. Registration can be completed online at www.curtincolombo.lk or by contacting the student admissions team on 076 555 8989 or inquiries@curtincolombo.lk.


December 21, 2023
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7min

 



 

 

Colombo, Monday 18th December 2023: Colombo, a vibrant metropolis pulsating with the energy of over 750,000 residents and ever-expanding horizons, is a city whose heartbeat resonates in the warmth of its people and their unparalleled hospitality. Behind its bustling facade lies a treasure trove of secrets, patiently awaiting discovery. In an ode to the city’s allure, a dynamic group of young photographers has embarked on a mission to unveil Colombo’s multifaceted charm through a fresh new perspective.

In a visionary collaboration, Cinnamon Colombo Hotels joined hands with Streets of Colombo earlier this year to embark on a one-of-a-kind project, a visual narrative that would eloquently tell the tales of Colombo through the artistry of photography. The inaugural chapter of this extraordinary campaign unfolded at the Atrium, Cinnamon Grand Colombo, where a press conference marked the commencement of a journey destined to capture the city’s essence. This platform for emerging talent received over 500 submissions, each a unique expression of Colombo’s spirit. Today, amidst anticipation, 52 outstanding works were unveiled, curated by a distinguished panel of judges—Dominic Sansoni, Luxshman Nadaraja, Sarath Perera, and Panduka De Silva—adding a brilliant chapter to Colombo’s visual legacy.

As this captivating photography exhibition unfolds, it is accompanied by a series of mini events, including exclusive workshops featuring the esteemed Alfredo D’amato, a luminary in the world of photography. Renowned for his profound visual storytelling, Alfredo’s work has graced the pages of prestigious international newspapers and magazines. His impactful collaborations with UNHCR, UNICEF, and various NGOs in Europe and beyond underscore his commitment to using photography for meaningful change. A laureate of accolades such as the Observer Hodge Award and the UNICEF Photo of the Year, Alfredo’s expertise will illuminate the workshops, offering participants a rare opportunity to learn from a master storyteller and award-winning photojournalist.

At the heart of the grand launch ceremony, a distinguished panel discussion unfolded, featuring luminaries such as Alfredo D’amato, alongside esteemed judges Dominic Sansoni and Luxshman Nadarajah. Joining this lineup were the visionary Founder of Streets of Colombo Johan Latiff and co-partner David Blacker, both celebrated photographers and ardent street photography enthusiasts. Guiding the discourse with finesse, the panel was expertly moderated by Azara Jaleel, Editor-in-Chief of the renowned ARTRA Magazine. Setting the tone for the evening, Kamal Munasinghe, Area Vice-President – Cinnamon Colombo Hotels and General Manager-Cinnamon Grand Colombo, delivered poignant opening remarks, inviting all to embark on a transformative journey of exploration, uncovering the hidden gems and untold stories that weave a narrative celebrating the essence of this extraordinary city and embracing its ever-evolving tapestry.

In a momentous culmination, the coveted Top Judge’s Choice Awards were bestowed upon the exceptional talents of Abdul Hameed for his compelling works “Harsh Reality” and “Rush Rush,” Ushan Gunasekara for the captivating “King of the Lane,” and Rishada Fauz for the whimsical “Pettah’s Playful Streets.” This extraordinary exhibition, a visual feast, will grace audiences until December 21, 2023, inviting admirers to immerse themselves in the narratives captured by these gifted photographers. Additionally, the evocative images, a testament to Colombo’s essence, are available for sale, with a commendable seventy percent of the proceeds directed towards supporting the SOS Children’s Villages in Sri Lanka, fostering positive change through art and philanthropy.

In 2018, the inception of Streets of Colombo marked the passionate collaboration of a group of visionaries dedicated to capturing the singular charm embedded in the streets of Colombo. Evolving from a handful of enthusiasts, the group has blossomed into a vibrant community of like-minded individuals, embarking on weekly city walks to unravel the hidden mysteries scattered throughout Colombo’s diverse landscapes. As the collective spirit thrived, the initiative transcended geographical boundaries, welcoming enthusiasts from picturesque locales such as Kandy, Jaffna, Batticaloa, and Galle. Streets of Colombo has become a dynamic tapestry, weaving stories from every corner, narrating the unique tales that echo within the heart of Sri Lanka’s urban and cultural landscape.

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, steadfast in its commitment to championing arts and culture, continues to foster a deep connection with creativity. Embracing the vibrant pulse of Colombo, the project unfolds as a testament to this enduring relationship, casting the city in a captivating new light through the lens of its own residents. In this collaboration with Streets of Colombo, the metropolis becomes a canvas, revealing the diverse tapestry of its inhabitants and offering visitors a panoramic glimpse into this multifaceted city. Bolstering this initiative are strategic partnerships with esteemed entities such as Canon & The Metropolitan Group, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotions Bureau, Tokyo Cement, Ebert Silva Holidays, Hatton National Bank, First Capital, and Barefoot Gallery. Together, these alliances aim to illuminate Colombo’s rich blend of cultures, historical significance, and modern dynamism, underscoring the city’s unique narrative in the global cultural landscape.

 



 

 


December 13, 2023
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6min

 



 

 

Colombo, Friday 8th December 2023: There’s nothing quite like the Christmas feeling, and as the City of Colombo adorns itself in twinkling lights, the air gets chillier and there is a tangible sense of festivity in the air, Cinnamon Colombo Hotels ushered in the most joyous time of the year. Cinnamon Colombo Hotels is “Your Christmas Destination” in the city this year, and a host of events have been planned at each of the three properties to encourage patrons to truly find their own version of the Christmas fantasy within our walls.

Cinnamon Grand Colombo’s festivities kicked off on the 1st of December with a tree lighting ceremony that also coincided with the Master Table with Gary Mehigan. The tree lighting ceremony also featured a performance by the juniors of the Soul Sounds Academy. The enchanting lights that overhang the entrance to Cinnamon Grand Colombo and the traditional Christmas tree were both lit up simultaneously by Area Vice President – Cinnamon Colombo Hotels, Kamal Munasinghe. In keeping with the theme of “a Grand Ol’ Christmas”, the hotel has much to offer this season including a goodies market at the Lobby, scrumptious dinners on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and an exciting record attempt at the Longest Yule Log.

On the eve of 1st December, Cinnamon Red Colombo lit up for the season amidst staff, friends and guests led by General Manager Terrence Fernando. The property, known for its lean luxury concept and minimalism has adopted a similar theme for its Christmas décor with holographic stars, fairy lights and subtle tributes to old traditions taking centerstage. Flavoured, the signature restaurant at the property will also host traditional events but the highlight of the season is the Christmas-themed High Tea served at Cloud Red, one of the highest bars in the city overlooking the breathtaking views of Colombo.

December 2nd marked the opening of the season for Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo together with the junior choir of the Umara Singhawansa Music Academy, and a special visit from Mrs.Claus who has taken up abode at the property for the season. Although Santa does miss her presence at the North Pole, guests at our resort in the city get to enjoy a goodies market packed with secret recipes, 4-days of musical magic under the moonlight, Christmas festivities, and a Masquerade to end the year on the highest note.

Commenting on the seasonal activities at all three properties Kamal Munasinghe noted, “Christmas is such a special time of the year, and this season we truly see Colombo celebrating. Cinnamon Colombo Hotels as the Christmas Destination this season truly promises to take every Christmas wish you can think of and make it into reality at one of our properties. One of the key highlights for us this season is also focusing on how to truly celebrate while concentrating on the environment, and those less fortunate around us. This is why we have concentrated heavily on creating our décor by recycling material used in our daily operations. The outcome has been nothing short of breathtaking and kudos to our internal teams for all the efforts put in. Further, our properties have also donated Christmas decorations from the previous years to several organizations and charities that required an uplifting spirit of Christmas this season. We truly believe that the celebrations are for everyone, and we can’t wait to make all your Christmas dreams come true at Cinnamon Colombo Hotels. I would personally like to take this opportunity to welcome everyone to our hotels this season and ask that you come and celebrate with us.”

For more information on our Christmas activities, please contact Cinnamon Grand Colombo on +94 112 437437, Cinnamon Red Colombo on +94710 145145 or Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo on +94 112 491000.

 



 

 


December 4, 2023
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4min

 



 

 

It is noteworthy to mention that high-net-worth individuals such as Dhammika Perera, Dr. Ravi Liyanage – Chairman of Raigam Group, and MDPS Kularathna – Chairman of MDK Group, count among the esteemed alumni of the college.

The much-anticipated inauguration of the Taxila Colombo Chapter took place with elegance on November 17 at Monarch Imperial, serving as a momentous reunion for the Taxila Central College community. The presence of both the patron and chairman of Taxila OPA added a touch of prestige to the proceedings. Leading the chapter is Chathura Krishantha from the ’95 batch, the creative mind behind the renowned Bellose brand. Taxila Central College, a century-old institution, can trace its origins back to the founding of Horana Buddhist English School in 1905. Under the patronage of Minister of Education C. W. W. Kannangara, Taxila Buddhist English School evolved into Taxila Central College on June 6, 1946. The school takes pride in essential facilities such as a spacious playground, a well-equipped laboratory, a swimming pool, and a hostel accommodating 200 students. Renowned for both its sporting achievements and academic excellence, Taxila Central College has consistently achieved outstanding results in public examinations, boasting over a 99% success rate in G.C.E. (O/L) examinations since 1996.

It is noteworthy to mention that high-net-worth individuals such as Dhammika Perera, Dr. Ravi Liyanage, – Chairman of Raigam Group, and MDPS Kularathna – Chairman of MDK Group, count among the esteemed alumni of the college. Today, as the school celebrates 75 years of academic achievement, it boasts over 3700 students, an academic staff of approximately 190, and more than 50 non-academic personnel. In the midst of this celebratory atmosphere, a significant announcement is the planning of the first-ever annual dinner at Monarch Imperial on July 27, 2024. This event is not just about festivities but represents a collective effort to bring together top-notch talents scattered from Horana to Colombo and beyond. The clear goal is to elevate the school to the next level. It is believed that the support of a strong alumni network underscores a shared commitment in advancing the school’s legacy. As the Taxila community unites for this groundbreaking event, it not only celebrates its rich history but also sets the stage for a future where the school reaches new heights with the collective talent and support of its accomplished alumni. Taxila Colombo Chapter warmly invite all alumni to mark their calendars and join them at Monarch Imperial on July 27, 2024, for what promises to be a memorable and impactful event.

 



 

 


November 30, 2023
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3min

 



 

 

COLIND (Colombo Indians) in association with ICF (Indian CEO Forum) organized their annual Diwali Ball at the Grand Marquee, Taj Samudra.

The start of the event was to celebrate the 3.5 years of service of H.E Gopal Baglay as High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka and the immense assistance he coordinated with the government and the people of India to assist Sri Lanka at the time of need. The Indian associations GOPIO (Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin) and the SLIS (Sri Lanka India Society) joined the celebrations to honour and felicitate H.E Gopal Baglay.

Ministers hon. Manusha Nanayakkara and hon. Suren Raghavan also felicitated H.E Gopal Baglay and thanked him for his services and assistance to Sri Lanka from the government of India.

Ministers, Members of Parliament, Diplomats, Sri Lankans, and Expats came together to express gratitude to H.E Gopal Baglay and Madam Bina. They enjoyed an evening filled with vibrant Bollywood-style festivities featuring dance and music. The event was enriched with a diverse array of delicious Indian foods; live action counters offered street foods from across India, such as Pav Bhajjis and Bhathuras. The mouthwatering Indian cuisine, representing the authentic flavors unique to each region, delighted the guests who indulged in a feast of culinary delights.

The annual Diwali Ball, organized by COLIND and ICF, is an unforgettable and thrilling event that lingers in the memories of those in Colombo for a long time. The carefully curated program aimed to immerse attendees in a traditional Indian celebration, featuring lively Bollywood music and energetic dancing. The graceful performers from the Dark Shine group captivated the audience, while DJ Ashok, specially flown in from India, and the band INIK kept everyone on the dance floor. The irresistible Bollywood beats drew participants of all ages, sizes, and nationalities to dance and revel until late.

The COLIND Diwali Ball 2023 marked the largest gathering, with over 600 Sri Lankans, Indians, and expats coming together to celebrate an Indian Mardi Gras experience in Colombo. The event exuded authentic Indian excitement, accompanied by an evening dedicated to acknowledging the services rendered by H.E. Gopal Baglay.

 



 

 


November 28, 2023
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4min

 



 

 

28th November 2023: Curtin Colombo teed up new opportunities by sponsoring the prestigious Monthly Medal Golf Tournament, held recently at the Royal Colombo Golf Club (RCGC). The collaboration enabled Curtin Colombo to seize the spotlight to further a vision of providing education beyond limits, and emphasize its commitment to serve parents and students, who value quality, innovation, and professionalism.

Recognized as a premium higher education provider in Sri Lanka, Curtin Colombo caters to high-achieving students, specifically those seeking premium international educational options and global careers. Curtin Colombo’s sponsorship of the event enables the institution to affiliate itself with Sri Lanka’s respected sporting circles and participants from distinguished backgrounds.

Partnering the event also reinforced Curtin Colombo’s credentials to usher ambitious students into global pathways, showcase the quality of its offerings, the high standards maintained at the institution and commitment to excellence. As the sponsor, Curtin Colombo’s brand presence was prominently displayed on tournament collateral to complement RCGC’s reputation as a pinnacle of sportsmanship and exclusivity.

Additionally, Curtin Colombo demonstrates a niche of empowering high-achieving students to access international careers. Aligning with one of Sri Lanka’s distinguished sporting networks spotlights Curtin’s ability to equip ambitious youth with premium education pathways while maintaining exceptional academic precision and uncompromising standards.

Dr. Athula Pitigala-aarachchi, CEO of Curtin Colombo said, “We are proud to partner with Curtin University, a world’s top 1% university, to provide students with a world class education. As part of our commitment to fostering strong ties within the community, we are thrilled to sponsor the Monthly Medal Tournament for the month of November. This endeavour reflects our dedication to supporting and enriching the educational and recreational experiences of both students and the broader community alike.”

Curtin Colombo offers undergraduate degrees from Curtin University, Australia, a globally recognized institution. Through associations with heritage institutions including the RCGC, Curtin Colombo continues its reputation in Sri Lanka of nurturing talent unconstrained by conventional boundaries. Sponsoring a strategic and high-profile event such as the Monthly Medal Golf Tournament, Curtin Colombo reaffirms its position as a leading pathway for students to access international standards of education, based on excellence, legacy, and exclusivity.

 



 

 


September 13, 2023
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7min

 



 

 

The Overseas School of Colombo (OSC) is the benchmark institution in Sri Lanka for academic finesse, holistic experiential learning, embodying diversity and inclusivity, and also for spearheading sustainable, eco-friendly initiatives. OSC, true to its motto ‘Unity in Diversity’, is the oldest international education institution established in 1957, and the only IB World School in Sri Lanka.

The Overseas School of Colombo was the first ever school in Sri Lanka to receive the Eco-Schools Green Flag Award. The Green Flag Award is bestowed by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) to schools having made measurable progress in environmental sustainability. OSC achieved this milestone award in December 2022.

In keeping with the school’s trajectory of addressing environmentally sustainable goals, OSC partnered with AGC Innovate (Pvt) Ltd., a pioneer and innovator to develop yet another sustainable solution that would benefit the school, its community and environment.

AGC Innovate (Pvt) Ltd. is the first eco-friendly company to espouse green technology to provide waste plastic solutions in the country. AGC Innovate has obtained all the necessary domestic certifications from the Central Environmental Authority and the Road Development Authority to facilitate solutions for roads, parking spaces and paving areas. PMAC technology is utilised by AGC Innovate having obtained patents from the National Intellectual Property Office of Sri Lanka.

In fact, AGC Innovate (Pvt) Ltd. triumphed, winning the award for Best Start-up in 2022 at the Innovate Lanka 2022 Competition organised by the Lankan Angel Network, SLASSCOM and the Council for Start-ups.

It is estimated that 1.59 million tonnes of plastic waste are mismanaged in Sri Lanka annually. A large portion of this plastic waste ends up in rivers, canals and the ocean, endangering marine life and destroying ecosystems. Plastics include consumables like plastic bags, straws, cups, bottles etc., which are thrown away after being used just once, referred to as single-use plastics.

AGC Innovate, having observed the damaging effects of plastic waste on ecosystems and wildlife, embarked on offering science and research-based solutions to tackle the issue in a systematic manner.

As part of their major endeavour in developing sustainable solutions for plastic waste is the introduction of the technology – Plastic Modified Asphalt Concrete (PMAC) for roads, parking and paving areas in developing infrastructure.

PMAC technology has been tried, tested and proven to be more durable than conventional asphalt, and is now used to pave roads, driveways, car parks, freight marshalling yards, and other paving areas.

AGC Innovate kickstarted their venture with a pilot project in 2018 paving a 500 m stretch of the Ratmalana – Borupana road under the rigorous monitoring and testing by the Road Development Authority of Sri Lanka (RDA) for strength and durability.

AGC has successfully executed over 20 diverse projects, ranging from the provision of PMAC laying solutions for multiple Cargills Food City car park projects; for John Keells – including Crescat Boulevard’s car park and internal road, Cinnamon Life (Glennie Street) and South Asia Gateway Terminals (SAGT); CBL’s car park in Ranala, the French Embassy car park, Indonesian Embassy entranceway roads, Meegoda and Gampaha PRDA projects, and a significant 2-kilometer road project in Trincomalee and Ampara.

The unique aspect of this PMAC technology is that AGC Innovate (Pvt) Ltd. is dedicated to utilising non-recyclable plastics, such as polythene, shopping bags and lunch sheets, which typically lack economic value through recycling or upcycling processes. Circularity is embedded in this solution since the waste plastics used to manufacture the PMAC to lay roads or parking areas, will be collected from within the region, quintessentially from private organisations, local authorities and provincial landfill sites themselves.

Apart from PMAC technology, utilising cutting-edge R&D systems, AGC Innovate has also managed to create other sustainable solutions such as bio-degradable fibre bags and wrapping material. AGC Innovate is also in the process of developing durable plastic modified paving blocks to be used for paving projects.

Crishan Fernando, Head of Facilities and Maintenance at The Overseas School of Colombo remarked: “OSC is the first school to achieve the Eco-Schools Green Flag Award. We have always been keen to adopt sustainable solutions within the school to inspire our own youngsters, our community and other schools. OSC is proud to have partnered with AGC Innovate as a revolutionary company having taken steps to offer innovative solutions utilising green technology to tackle the waste plastic issue in the country. We must encourage other schools and the corporate sector to adopt more environmentally friendly solutions.”

OSC is the first school AGC Innovate has worked with. 250 kilogrammes of plastic waste were utilised to pave OSC’s internal school driveway to the gymnasium with the PMAC laying method. The road is more durable and steadfast as a result.

AGC Innovate (Pvt) Ltd. is a company that’s truly one of a kind, paving the way for a sustainable future.

The Overseas School of Colombo continues to pave the highest standards of all-round finesse by embracing sustainability to be an inspiration to others.

Did you know that 1 km of PMAC paved road utilises 3 tonnes of waste plastic, which is the equivalent of 800,000 bags?

Sri Lanka finally has a solution to stop pollution thanks to AGC Innovate, and OSC proudly and loudly advocates the initiative for a better, brighter and cleaner tomorrow.

 



 

 



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