Sri Lanka Names Hans Wijayasuriya as Digital Economy Lead

Sri Lanka Names Hans Wijayasuriya as Digital Economy Lead

OMP Sri Lanka has announced a significant step in the country’s digital journey. Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya has been chosen as the Chief Advisor on Digital Economy by the president. This key appointment by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake highlights the country’s dedication to leading in technology. It also shows its efforts to transform its digital space.

Sri Lanka Appoints Axiata GED Hans Wijayasuriya as Chief Digital Economy Advisor

Dr. Wijayasuriya brings a wealth of experience from his time as Axiata Group’s General Executive Director. His global recognition, including the top GSMA Chairman’s Award in 2024, will greatly benefit his new position. With this role, Sri Lanka is starting a new chapter in its digital journey. The aim is to boost growth and improve public services with new technology.

Work on economic recovery is moving forward, and Dr. Wijayasuriya’s vision is expected to be key for empowering Sri Lankans digitally. By taking on this important advisory role, he will wrap up his successful time with Axiata by January 2025. This move marks a major shift from his corporate achievements to serving the nation in the technology field.

Sri Lanka Appoints Axiata GED Hans Wijayasuriya as Chief Digital Economy Advisor

Sri Lanka has made a key move by naming Hans Wijayasuriya the Chief Digital Economy Advisor. This important step is set to boost the country’s role in the digital world and enhance its global standing. It shows Sri Lanka’s eagerness to lead in tech among developing countries.

Appointment Marks a Transformational Shift for Sri Lanka’s Digital Landscape

Dr. Wijayasuriya starts his role on November 1, 2024. He brings vast knowledge, especially from the financial world. This matches well with Sri Lanka’s goals of promoting tech and innovation in telecom. On his first day, the local currency strengthened, showing more investor confidence, particularly in finance.

Empowering a National Vision: Toward a Digitally Advanced Sri Lanka

With Dr. Wijayasuriya’s leadership, Sri Lanka aims to launch major digital updates. These plans are to upgrade infrastructure and make tech widely available, improving living standards and job chances for everyone. His experience in emerging markets and digital fields will likely lead to significant progress.

Public-Private Synergy: Wijayasuriya’s Role in Digital Policy and Advisory

Advancing digitally needs teamwork between the government and private companies. Dr. Wijayasuriya will head the ICTA of Sri Lanka, focusing on starting strong and creating solid policies. His role aims to synchronize Sri Lanka with global digital developments, promoting growth and tech empowerment.

Sri Lanka has also gained major global support, for example, a $1 billion World Bank loan. This shows the world’s trust in Sri Lanka’s recovery and growth plans. It’s a step towards building a vibrant digital economy.

Having Hans Wijayasuriya as the Chief Digital Economy Advisor is crucial for Sri Lanka. His insight and strategy are key to bringing in a digital age of success. He’s expected to blend economic strength with tech innovation seamlessly.

Hans Wijayasuriya’s Legacy in Telecommunications and Digital Solutions

Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya has led for over 30 years in the Axiata Group. He has made a big impact on global mobile communication. This is shown by his GSMA Chairman’s Award in 2024. He now focuses on Sri Lanka’s digital economy growth. By being the Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy, his telecommunications expertise will help the country. Sri Lanka faces challenges like the need for skilled software experts which it currently lacks. Dr. Wijayasuriya is key in meeting the IT industry’s growing demands.

To improve the IT workforce, there is a focus on digital innovation. This aims to boost the economy and stop the brain drain by offering good jobs to the young and encouraging them to start businesses. Dr. Wijayasuriya’s work is seen in Dialog Axiata and Axiata Digital Labs. These efforts show his lasting effect on Sri Lanka’s telco and digital areas. He advises the nation to use innovation to enhance international trade. This will help with currency issues and reduce the banking sector’s reliance on the falling rupee.

Sri Lanka is changing its laws, with the 21st Amendment passed. This shows its commitment to fair laws and chances for everyone. The nation is trying to improve in areas like banking and IT. Groups like the Commonwealth Union Ltd. and Appé Lanka help poor communities in Sri Lanka. The President’s Media Division says Dr. Wijayasuriya’s role is very important. As Sri Lanka plans to dissolve its Parliament for elections, it looks forward to new laws and policy changes.

Commonwealth Union Supports Appé Lanka’s Educational Work

Commonwealth Union Supports Appé Lanka’s Educational Work

The Commonwealth Union Ltd. has teamed up with Appé Lanka Foundation. They aim to support community development in Northern Sri Lanka’s Poonakary region. This partnership shows how international aid can uplift struggling communities.

Shaan Corea, Appé Lanka’s founder, met with Nirj Deva, Commonwealth Union President. They talked about the partnership’s potential impact. The union’s support will boost the foundation’s efforts to tackle key issues.

Appé Lanka focuses on water scarcity, education access, and job opportunities. They mainly help women and women-headed households. As a grassroots non-profit, they’ve already made big changes in Poonakary.

The foundation takes a complete approach to community improvement. They work on water purification, renewable energy, and transportation solutions. They also provide educational support to create lasting positive change.

Appé Lanka’s Grassroots Initiatives Transform Poonakary Region

Appé Lanka is changing lives in Sri Lanka’s Poonakary region. The non-profit tackles water scarcity, education, food security, and reconciliation in rural areas. Their grassroots efforts are making a real difference.

Addressing Water Crisis with Reverse Osmosis Plants

Poonakary faced a severe lack of clean drinking water. Appé Lanka installed Reverse Osmosis plants to purify water. This move greatly improved local health, especially for children and the elderly.

Holistic Approach: Water, Education, Food Security, and Reconciliation

Appé Lanka takes a well-rounded approach to community development. They run literacy programs and skill training workshops for youth empowerment. The foundation also boosts food security through community gardens and farmer training.

Appé Lanka promotes reconciliation in post-war Sri Lanka. They bring diverse communities together, fostering unity and understanding. This work is key for lasting peace and growth.

Inspiring Example of Compassionate, Grassroots Development

Appé Lanka’s work in Poonakary shows how grassroots efforts can uplift communities. They work closely with locals to ensure sustainable, needs-based solutions. Their success proves the power of teamwork in tackling social issues.

The foundation continues to be a beacon of hope. They show that positive change is possible through hard work and commitment. Appé Lanka’s impact in Poonakary inspires communities across Sri Lanka.

Commonwealth Union Supports Appé Lanka’s Grassroots Educational Efforts

The partnership between Commonwealth Union and Appé shows true dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility. They support Appé Lanka’s educational initiatives in Poonakary. Their goal is to make a lasting impact on underprivileged communities.

Partnership Demonstrates Dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility

Commonwealth Union’s support for Appé Lanka shows their commitment to helping marginalized communities. This teamwork brings diverse groups together to tackle educational challenges in Poonakary.

The partnership supports several key initiatives. These include providing school supplies and distributing bicycles to students. They also install water purifying systems in schools.

  • Providing school supplies, such as exercise books, to reduce absenteeism and support educational outcomes
  • Distributing bicycles to school children to prevent dropouts and improve attendance rates
  • Installing water purifying systems in 30 schools, with plans to expand this initiative to address water shortages

Goal: Making a Lasting, Positive Difference in Underprivileged Communities

The partnership aims to create long-term impact in underprivileged communities. They focus on education to empower people with knowledge and skills. This helps break the cycle of poverty.

Appé Lanka and Commonwealth Union run workshops and exchange programs. They also develop livelihood initiatives. These efforts promote peace and understanding in the Poonakary region.

By investing in education, they’re building a brighter future. Their work paves the way for prosperity in these communities.

Sustainable Initiatives Empower Northern Sri Lankan Communities

Appé Lanka uplifts underprivileged communities in Northern Sri Lanka through sustainable initiatives. Their projects cover renewable energy, transportation, peace-building, education, and employment. These efforts foster resilience and unity in the region.

Providing Renewable Energy through Solar Systems

Appé Lanka installs solar systems in schools and community centers. This renewable energy solution offers reliable power and promotes environmental sustainability. It has improved educational facilities and enabled evening community gatherings.

Addressing Transportation Challenges with Bicycle Distribution

Appé Lanka distributes bicycles to rural school children. This has cut travel time and boosted school attendance. It also promotes physical activity among youth.

By giving students mobility, the organization supports their educational success. It also contributes to their overall well-being.

Promoting Peace and Reconciliation through Workshops and Exchange Programs

Appé Lanka actively promotes peace in this conflict-affected region. They run workshops and exchange programs that unite people from different communities. These initiatives foster dialogue, understanding, and unity.

Their efforts help break down barriers and heal wounds. They’re building a foundation for a harmonious future.

Supporting Education by Providing School Supplies

Education is a key focus for Appé Lanka. They’ve installed water purifying systems in 30 schools. The organization also provides essential school supplies like exercise books.

By ensuring clean water and basic materials, they create a good learning environment. This supports the academic growth of children in the region.

Creating Sustainable Employment for Women and Women-Headed Households

Appé Lanka focuses on economic empowerment, especially for women. They run livelihood programs offering skills training and market access. These programs create sustainable job opportunities.

This enables women to gain financial independence. It also helps them contribute to their families’ well-being.

FAQ

What is the Commonwealth Union’s role in supporting Appé Lanka’s educational efforts?

The Commonwealth Union partners with Appé Lanka Foundation to support grassroots education in Northern Sri Lanka. This collaboration showcases their commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility. It aims to create lasting change in underprivileged communities.

How did Appé Lanka’s journey begin?

Appé Lanka’s founder, Shaan Corea, visited Poonakary and saw the community’s daily struggles. Moved by their situation, he started the foundation to tackle pressing issues. The first focus was addressing the region’s water crisis.

What was Appé Lanka’s first initiative in the Poonakary region?

Appé Lanka tackled the water crisis by installing Reverse Osmosis plants. These plants provide clean, safe drinking water to locals.

What other areas does Appé Lanka focus on in its holistic approach to development?

Appé Lanka takes a well-rounded approach to development in Poonakary. They focus on education, food security, nutrition, and reconciliation efforts.

How does Appé Lanka’s work demonstrate the power of collaboration in transforming underprivileged communities?

Appé Lanka’s work shows how teamwork can change underprivileged communities. By joining forces with groups like the Commonwealth Union, they boost their impact. This allows them to help more people in need.

What are some of the sustainable initiatives undertaken by Appé Lanka to empower communities in Northern Sri Lanka?

Appé Lanka runs several sustainable projects in Northern Sri Lanka. They provide solar energy systems and give bicycles to school kids. The foundation also holds workshops to promote peace.

They supply exercise books to students and create jobs for women. These efforts focus on women-headed households too.

How has Appé Lanka addressed water shortages in schools?

Appé Lanka has solved water shortages in 30 schools. They installed water purifying systems to ensure students have clean drinking water.

Sri Lanka Hosts International Jazz Festival in Galle

Sri Lanka Hosts International Jazz Festival in Galle

Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is hosting the International Jazz Festival. This event attracts jazz and blues fans worldwide. It showcases over 40 international and 50 Sri Lankan artists.

Sri Lanka Hosts International Jazz Festival in Galle

The Galle Jazz Festival lasts 12 hours, offering a full experience. Visitors can enjoy live music, great food, and fine wine. The atmosphere mirrors the lively streets of New Orleans.

The festival features famous international acts and talented local artists. This mix highlights the diversity of jazz and blues genres. The event is expected to draw many visitors to Galle.

Galle’s colonial architecture and seaside setting create a perfect backdrop. This world-class music festival boosts Galle’s status as a cultural hub. It cements the city’s reputation for hosting international events.

Key Takeaways

  • Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, hosts the International Jazz Festival
  • The festival features over 40 international and 50 Sri Lankan artists
  • The event spans 12 hours and includes live performances, food, and wine
  • The festival atmosphere is reminiscent of the lively streets of New Orleans
  • The event highlights Galle as a top tourist attraction and cultural hub in Sri Lanka

Galle Welcomes Global Jazz and Blues Artists

Galle is hosting a spectacular jazz festival featuring top international acts. The event showcases the vibrant Sri Lankan jazz scene. Mainstage Events organizes this celebration of world-class music in the picturesque coastal town.

Festival Attracts Top International Acts

The festival lineup includes renowned British acid jazz band Incognito, led by Bluey. Other global acts are Marco Mendoza, Holly Perkins and the Diablos, and the Kevin Davy quartet.

Mud Morganfield, son of Muddy Waters, will perform classic blues songs. His tribute album “For Pops: A Tribute To Muddy Waters” will be featured.

Local Jazz Scene Showcased Alongside Global Talent

Sri Lanka’s thriving jazz scene shares the stage with international artists. Local performers include Geoffrey Fernando of Purple Rain and Jerome Speldewinde. The jazz sextet Brown Sugar will also showcase their talent.

This blend of global and local talent highlights Sri Lanka’s rich musical heritage. It also shows the country’s growing prominence in the international jazz community.

The festival offers nearly ten hours of jazz daily at the iconic Galle Face Hotel. Day passes cost 5000 LKR, while weekend passes are 8000 LKR. For ticket information, contact Amrik at +94777397818.

Galle Fort Provides Stunning Backdrop for Festival

The historic Galle Fort hosts the International Jazz Festival in Sri Lanka. This UNESCO World Heritage site blends Portuguese and Dutch architecture. Its charm creates an unforgettable experience for festival-goers.

Galle attracts culturally curious and creative minds. The Galle Jazz Festival took place in November 2014. It featured classic and modern jazz from international and local acts.

The French quintet Olivier Franc and local band Noctua were among the performers. The festival showcases Galle’s rich heritage and multicultural influences.

Festival Boosts Galle’s Cultural and Tourist Appeal

The Galle Jazz Festival draws visitors from around the world. It highlights the city’s Dutch, Portuguese, British, and indigenous cultural mix. The event provides a stage for traditional and modern artistic expressions.

Event Highlights Sri Lanka’s Growing Jazz Scene

The festival spotlights Sri Lanka’s expanding jazz scene. It offers local artists chances to work with international performers. The event aims to bring fresh experiences to Sri Lankan arts and music.

The Galle hospitality industry thrives with events like the Jazz Festival. Visitors are drawn to iconic venues such as the Galle Fort Hotel. The Owl and the Pussycat hotel is known for its unique suites.

This hotel supports the arts through the Edward Lear Prize for Poetry. The prize is part of the Galle Literary Festival.

Festival Offers Unique Blend of Music, Food, and Culture

The International Jazz Festival in Galle, Sri Lanka, is a celebration of jazz and blues music. This event takes place at the historic Galle Fort. It offers a mix of music, food, and culture that draws visitors worldwide.

The festival features international and local jazz artists. It also includes a “Feastival” with specialty foods and drinks. Renowned chefs, wine, and champagne bars make it a culinary delight.

The event’s appeal goes beyond the stage with a homegrown design fair. Visitors can explore Sri Lankan art and crafts while enjoying music. This blend creates a unique atmosphere celebrating the region’s heritage and vibrancy.

The festival offers diverse experiences for music lovers, foodies, and culture fans. The stunning Galle Fort backdrop adds to its charm. It showcases the best of music, cuisine, and art in Sri Lanka.

As the festival grows, it continues to attract visitors seeking a unique cultural experience. It has become a premier event in Sri Lanka, offering something for everyone.

Three Arrested Over Alleged Plot Targeting Israeli Tourists

Three Arrested Over Alleged Plot Targeting Israeli Tourists

Sri Lankan authorities recently caught suspects tied to a plot. This plot threatened the safety of Israeli tourists. It was uncovered in intelligence reports that there was a plan to target Israeli-driven spots. Especially in Arugam Bay, a favorite among Israeli visitors affected by the Maldives’ ban in support of Gaza.

Three Arrested Over Alleged Plot Targeting Israeli Tourists

Right now, there are about 575 Israeli tourists in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan officials have stepped up safety measures drastically. They have increased police and military around key sites. This move shows Sri Lanka’s strong commitment to keeping visitors safe. It’s important for their tourism, which is vital to the economy.

The governments of Israel and the USA have issued travel warnings. They point out higher risks in particular places in Sri Lanka. They’ve set up a special hotline for Israeli tourists needing urgent help. This shows fast action and teamwork by the government to protect visitors. This effort supports Sri Lanka’s growing tourism industry. It might even surpass the Maldives as a top spot, says OMP Sri Lanka.

The recent arrests show Sri Lanka’s dedication to national security. This comes after the tragedy of 2019, when 269 people died in a horrific attack. Sri Lanka’s police are determined to avoid a repeat of that sad history. Their efforts, along with the Commonwealth Union Ltd. and the Appé Lanka Foundation, are helping community growth and healing. It’s all part of Sri Lanka’s bigger plan for progress, as shared by OMP Sri Lanka.

Unveiling the Arrests and Security Response

After getting tips about a terrorist plot against Israeli tourists in Sri Lanka, the authorities acted fast. They caught three suspects. This fast action was to stop a possible plot linked to conflicts in the Middle East. Officials said these suspects apprehended had links abroad, including with groups in Iraq. This showed the global nature of the threat.

Law enforcement operation

The Sri Lankan government upped its security, focusing on places tourists like to go. Right after catching the suspects, they boosted safety. They set up a hotline for people to report anything odd. This helped keep everyone safer.

They also worked more with other countries’ spies to check on the suspects. This careful watch shows they’re serious about stopping revenge attacks. These could be because of what Israel does in the area.

Keeping people safe and peaceful is very important. After stopping this terrorist plot, Sri Lanka kept its strong security. This shows Sri Lanka’s strong stand against terrorism. They want to keep the country safe from outside dangers.

It’s important to see how these actions affect the world. It affects not just Sri Lanka, but also how countries work together and stay stable. To see more about how Sri Lanka balances safety and culture, look at this article about traditional handicrafts in Sri. It shows how they keep their culture alive while staying safe.

Event Details
Initial intelligence report Indicated a potential terrorist threat targeting Israeli tourists in Sri Lanka
Suspects’ ties Linked to international groups, notably in Iraq
Security measures implemented Security heightened in tourist regions, emergency hotline established
Objective Preempt reprisals tied to geopolitical tensions, maintain regional stability

Sri Lanka stays vigilant and keeps its security tough to prevent threats. As things change, they keep checking and updating safety. This protects everyone in the region, including visitors from other countries.

Understanding the Broader Impact of the Arrests

The recent capture of suspects threatening Israeli tourists in Arugam Bay has affected many areas. Sri Lankan police worked with global teams, highlighting the need for quick action and intelligence to keep peace and protect tourism, including places like the Jewish community center and Chabad House. These events are part of bigger, world-wide concerns over terror-linked actions.

In Europe, extremist attacks have big impacts. The attack on Moscow’s Crocus concert hall was very harmful. Now, as Europe faces events like the Paris Olympics, it reacts by increasing security efforts, learning from past events. We’re reminded how critical safe international relations are, as seen in Sri Lanka and Pakistan’s efforts to boost air travel for tourism and growth.

Sri Lanka is also focusing on education as a path to stability, with a huge budget for 2024. By spending Rs. 465 billion, they aim to improve their educational structure. This move shows Sri Lanka’s commitment against extremism and for economic strength. Through promoting education for all, Sri Lanka is fighting threats and pushing for progress. Education helps build a society that can stand against outside dangers effectively.

Sri Lanka’s Foreign Reserves Rebound to $5.5 Billion

Sri Lanka’s Foreign Reserves Rebound to $5.5 Billion

Foreign Reserves Rebound to $5.5 Billion by April 2024

Sri Lanka has faced tough times, but it’s making a comeback. The nation’s foreign reserves reached $5.5 billion by. This shows stability is returning, thanks to effective policies and global teamwork.

Rebuilding international currency reserves was a huge task, especially after the pandemic’s hit. By focusing on strong fiscal strategies and important reforms, Sri Lanka is moving towards financial wisdom.

The nation is now seeing signs of improvement in many areas. This progress brings hope for its economic future. Sri Lanka’s smart response to global economic challenges has earned it praise for its financial strategies.

Impact of Historical Economic Challenges on Sri Lanka’s Reserves

Sri Lanka has faced many economic challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. These have greatly changed its financial path and economic growth forecast. The country’s central bank balance and monetary policy implications have been heavily affected. The crisis times have greatly disturbed Sri Lanka’s reserves.

Economic Challenges Impacting Sri Lankan Reserves

The COVID-19 Pandemic’s Influence on Tourism and Growth

The tourism sector is vital for Sri Lanka’s economy but suffered greatly due to the pandemic. The World Bank had high hopes, but reality showed a sharp drop. Tourism income fell from an average of $3,682 million to just $507 million in 2021. This big loss hurt the foreign exchange rates and international currency reserves.

Energy and Food Crisis: Spending Spikes and Revenue Declines

After the pandemic began, Sri Lanka faced a crisis in energy and food. The government had to spend more to help its people. High spending and lower income, especially from energy, put more pressure on the central bank balance. This made it hard for foreign reserves to rebound to $5.5 billion by April 2024, showing how global and national economies are linked.

However, spending less on fuel imports helped a bit. It indirectly stabilized foreign reserves by reducing money flow out.

Consequences of Reliance on Domestic Financing Amid Global Downturn

Lower prices of International Sovereign Bonds made Sri Lanka use more domestic financing. This led to a big increase in the Central Bank of Sri Lanka’s credit to the government. It shows a move towards a focus on domestic finance, which is key for monetary policy implications. Yet, it also shows weaknesses in local finance during global economic problems.

Domestic economic activities got a small boost from easier monetary policies. There was a small rise in credit for the private sector, helping to slowly improve economic activities. The World Bank’s loan is crucial for balanced growth. Yet, it’s a delicate balance to maintain.

The crisis times have offered important lessons on Sri Lanka’s financial and economic strategies. These strategies are crucial to stabilize and slowly improve the nation’s reserves and overall economic well-being.

Foreign Reserves Rebound to $5.5 Billion by April 2024

In a world where markets and economies are always changing, Sri Lanka shows hope. Its financial stability indicators have sprung back up. This is a key sign that things are getting better for the country’s money matters. First Capital Research tells us that by April 2024, Sri Lanka’s foreign reserves hit $5.5 billion. This big improvement is seen across Asia-Pacific, showing that the government’s smart choices are paying off.

By sticking it out through tough times, Sri Lanka is nearer to its growth goals. The boost in foreign reserves is crucial. It helps keep important imports coming and guards against sudden money problems. This success comes from wise policy decisions and working closely with international groups, like the IMF. Also, policies like the interim debt standstill have been vital in keeping the economy stable.

Now, Sri Lanka might get more help, with an extra $1.2 billion possibly coming from G-20 countries in 2020. This could make the country’s money situation even better. A big part of this brighter future is thanks to more tourists coming, especially from Europe and Asia-Pacific. This jump in visitors brings in more cash and proves that new government plans and visa rules are working well. For those looking to dive deeper into how Sri Lanka is managing its debts and boosting tourism, check out more info here and here.

So, reaching $5.5 billion in foreign reserves is not just good news; it’s a major step forward. It shows Sri Lanka is serious about handling its finances wisely and planning for the future. This matches OMP Sri Lanka’s goal of keeping everyone informed about the country’s progress.