THE ORGANISATION OF PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS OF SRI LANKA

38^th  Annual Conference and 4th National Apex Awards of the OPA honours excellence, fosters professional collaboration

The Organisation of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka (OPA) successfully hosted its 38^th  Annual Conference and the prestigious 4th National Apex Awards on the 19^th  and 20^th  of August 2025, at the Cinnamon Life, Colombo. The event commenced with a distinguished Inaugural Ceremony, graced by the Chief Guest, Hon. (Dr.) Jagath Wickramaratne, Speaker of the Parliament of Sri Lanka, and attended by leading figures from the professional sector.

In his Welcome Address, Mr. Sujeewa Lal Dahanayake, President of the OPA, reaffirmed the OPA’s commitment to national development through professional collaboration and active engagement with the government. He emphasized the significance of the Annual Conference, which was taking place during the 50^th  anniversary of the OPA, marking five decades of multidisciplinary professional unity and collective efforts toward the advancement of the nation.

This was followed by a speech by Mr. Jayantha Gallehewa, President-Elect and Chairman of the Annual Conference Committee, who elaborated on the relevance and timeliness of the conference theme, “Resilience and Outpace Redefined: Thriving and Adapting.” He stressed the crucial need for resilience and adaptability to drive Sri Lanka’s progress, particularly at this pivotal juncture in its development journey.

In his address, the Chief Guest, Hon. (Dr.) Jagath Wickramaratne, highlighted the vital role of professionals in nation-building, fostering innovation, and contributing to a knowledge-based economy.

A highlight of the evening was the 4th National Apex Awards Ceremony, introduced by Hon. Justice Priyasath Dep, Chairman of the Panel of Judges. These prestigious awards recognized eminent professionals who have made exceptional contributions to their respective fields and to society at large.

The evening featured an impactful Keynote Address by Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, Secretary to the Treasury and the Ministry of Finance, Planning & Economic Development, who stressed the role of professionals in supporting the government’s efforts to develop the country.

The night concluded with dinner and fellowship, offering a valuable opportunity for professionals from various disciplines to connect while enjoying captivating performances from renowned singer Umariya Sinhawansa.

The following day was dedicated to the Technical Sessions, which brought together experts, policymakers, and professionals to deliberate on key areas vital to Sri Lanka’s progress. The recommendations and insights from these sessions will serve as a valuable foundation for the OPA to develop policy papers and initiate ongoing discussions with the government, ensuring that the outcomes of the conference have a sustained and practical impact.

The 38th Annual Conference and 4th National Apex Awards underscored the OPA’s pivotal role as the umbrella body uniting Sri Lanka’s professional community, dedicated to elevating professional standards and contributing meaningfully to the country’s socio-economic transformation.