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Results for “technology”

Port City Colombo holds first Indian investor forum in Chennai

November 11·3 sources

Port City Colombo held its inaugural investor forum in India at the Hyatt Regency in Chennai on 4 November, seeking to attract Indian investment. The event was organised by the Deputy High Commission of Sri Lanka in Chennai alongside Port City Colombo. Over 200 business leaders, investors, and policymakers attended to explore opportunities across real estate, financial services, logistics, and technology. Deputy High Commissioner Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran stressed the potential to expand bilateral commerce, while Colombo Port City Economic Commission Chairperson Harsha Amarasekera outlined regulatory safeguards positioning the project as a regional business hub. CHEC Port City Colombo Deputy Managing Director Thulci Aluwihare noted that as Sri Lanka’s only foreign currency-designated Special Economic Zone, the project offers single-window approvals, 100 percent foreign ownership, and transactions in 16 foreign currencies, including the Indian rupee.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Peradeniya Black Bridge reconstruction continues alongside new bridge plans, says minister

November 11·1 source

Reconstruction of the Peradeniya Black Bridge, destroyed by Cyclone Ditwa, is continuing without interruption, Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said on 10 November. Speaking at a Cabinet press briefing, Dr. Jayatissa stated that efforts are also underway to construct a new bridge while the 1865 bridge is restored. The Central Engineering Consultancy Bureau and the University of Peradeniya are jointly carrying out the reconstruction work using technology. Dr. Jayatissa added that double-tracking the railway line from Kadugannawa to Gampola via Peradeniya and from Peradeniya to Katugastota is planned to eliminate capacity bottlenecks and improve reliability.

Otherසිංහල

Neil Marine Sports and Leisure launches Hidea outboard motors in Sri Lanka

November 11·1 source

Neil Marine Sports and Leisure Ltd. has launched Hidea outboard motors in Sri Lanka under an exclusive agency agreement. The launch took place at the Granbell Hotel in Colombo on 26 October. The range includes 2.5HP to 200HP two-stroke and four-stroke petrol, kerosene, and electric engines. The engines target fishermen, leisure boaters, commercial operators, and marine tourism providers. Neil Marine Group CEO Shan Perera said the partnership combines the group's boat-building experience with Hidea’s technology to supply fuel-efficient and dependable engines for Sri Lanka's fisheries and tourism sectors.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Sri Lanka football coach Abdullah Al Mutairi criticises refereeing after draw with Bhutan

November 11·1 source

Sri Lanka football head coach Abdullah Al Mutairi criticised match officials following his team's 2-2 draw against Bhutan in their opening SAFF Championship match on Sunday (8). Mutairi called on the South Asian Football Federation to introduce Video Assistant Referee technology from the group stage or resolve officiating standards. He alleged that referees overlooked fouls against Sri Lanka, awarded Bhutan an undeserved penalty saved by Sujan Perera, allowed an offside goal, and denied Sri Lanka a penalty. Mutairi questioned the officiating Sri Lanka would face against hosts Bangladesh, suggesting organizers simply stage an India-Bangladesh final if commercial interests were the priority.

SportsEnglish

Seven young Badulla writers launch eight books at Smruthi Literary Festival

November 11·1 source

Seven young writers from Badulla District launched eight new literary creations at the “Smruthi” Literary Festival held at the Uva Provincial Library Auditorium on 8 November. Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs Dinindu Saman Hennayake patronised the event. He said writers possess a unique ability to shape a new world beyond politics, science, or technology, playing an essential role in guiding attitudes and social transformation. The releases included Dimuthu Samudra Liyanage’s novel “Ardha Garbha” and poetry collection “Heeniyata Kenda Perulunu Hith”, alongside Lisandi Attanayake’s novel “Salohitha”. Poetry collections by Lakmal Dinushan, Nayana Wickramarathne, Chalani Kaushalya, Jaya Jayaratne, and Sathira Lochana Liyanage were also presented. Uva Provincial Chief Secretary Anusha Gokula and Uva Provincial Library Services Board Chairman Nishshanka Wijemanne were among those present.

Entertainment & Cultureසිංහල

Navoloka Medicare opens Shrini Dharmadasa Cardiac Centre in Negombo

November 11·1 source

Navoloka Medicare opened the Shrini Dharmadasa Cardiac Centre at its hospital premises in Negombo on October 14, 2026. The facility aims to expand cardiac, vascular, and image-guided treatments across the Gampaha District using Philips Azurion 7 C20 technology. Science and Technology Minister Dr. Krishantha Abeysekera attended as chief guest, alongside Prakash Nair from the Indian High Commission, Negombo Mayor Dulip Chamara, and Navoloka Medicare directors Tracy Dharmadasa and Dr. Lakkumar Fernando. Navoloka Medicare Chairman Harshit Dharmadasa said the centre prioritises affordable, advanced cardiac care and patient safety for local families, while supporting Sri Lanka's shift toward digital healthcare and artificial intelligence.

Healthසිංහල

First paddy value chain project launched in Welikanda with free seed distribution

November 11·1 source

Sri Lanka’s first paddy value chain production project was launched at the Welikanda Sewanapitiya Divisional Secretariat Office on Wednesday (09), coinciding with the ‘Arunalu Agricultural Project for Renaissance’. Organized by the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority, Department of Agriculture, and ‘Janmabhoomi Swarnabhoomi Sri Lanka Institute’, the initiative distributed 625 bushels of seed paddy free of charge to 125 farmers. Deputy Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply T.B. Sarath said drone technology projects costing about 40 lakhs would be brought to Polonnaruwa and Zone B to train young farmers and increase yields. Sarath added that the Janmabhoomi Institute procures 30,000 metric tons of paddy to produce items like biscuits, beverages, and rice flour for export to Japan, Korea, and China.

Economy & Businessසිංහල

Sammanthurai Divisional Council allocates Rs. 150,000 to three young cricketers touring India

November 11·1 source

The Sammanthurai Divisional Council unanimously decided on Tuesday (10) to allocate Rs. 150,000, granting Rs. 50,000 each to three local cricketers set to play in international matches in India. The players—Hamdan, Isfaq, and Zahid from the MUFO Cricket Academy—will represent Sri Lanka's Riches Lanka Center for Cricket team in Haryana and Delhi this month, and in Hyderabad in January 2027. The financial assistance followed an application by the MUFO Sports Club for sports equipment and transport expenses, backed by Chairman I.L.M. Mahir and council members. The council also passed resolutions to honour local students selected for university admission, including those who placed first and second in the district technology stream.

Sportsதமிழ்

Court of Appeal to hear petition against Sarana Gunawardena's acquittal on February 10

November 10·5 sources

The Court of Appeal on Tuesday (10) fixed February 10 to hear a revision petition filed by the Bribery Commission challenging the Colombo High Court's decision to acquit former Minister Sarana Gunawardena in a corruption case. The order was issued by a bench comprising Court of Appeal President Justice Rohantha Abeysooriya and Justice Priyantha Fernando after considering submissions made by counsel for both parties. Gunawardena, who is currently serving a prison sentence in a separate case, was produced before the court via Zoom technology.

Crime & CourtsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

Sri Lanka hosts inaugural Colombo Port City investor forum in Chennai

November 10·2 sources

Over 200 business leaders, investors, and policymakers gathered at the Hyatt Regency in Chennai on 4 November for Port City Colombo’s inaugural investor forum in India. Organised by the Sri Lankan Deputy High Commission in Chennai and Port City Colombo, the event explored investment partnerships across real estate, logistics, technology, and financial services. Colombo Port City Economic Commission Chairman Harsha Amarasekera highlighted the zone’s regulatory certainty and investor safeguards for businesses seeking regional expansion. CHEC Port City Colombo Deputy Managing Director Thulci Aluwihare presented the project as Sri Lanka’s only foreign currency-designated Special Economic Zone, featuring 100% foreign ownership and transactions in 16 currencies, including the Indian rupee. Sri Lanka’s Deputy High Commissioner for Southern India, Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, noted that strong bilateral ties offer considerable scope to deepen business engagement.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Sri Lanka coach Al Mutairi criticises refereeing and lack of VAR at SAFF Championship

November 10·3 sources

Sri Lanka football head coach Abdullah Al Mutairi criticised referee decisions and the absence of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology after his team drew 2-2 with Bhutan on 8 November 2026 at Dhaka National Stadium. In the 15th SAFF Championship match, goals from Oliver James Gallard and Waseem Razeek put Sri Lanka ahead following Tawa Shering's opener. Bhutan captain Chencho Gyeltshen equalised in the 76th minute, having earlier had a penalty saved by Sri Lanka goalkeeper Sujan Perera. Al Mutairi claimed Gyeltshen’s equaliser was offside, Bhutan’s penalty was unjustified, and Sri Lanka was denied a penalty. He accused organisers of prioritising commercial interests to favour India and Bangladesh, expressing concern ahead of facing host Bangladesh. FT.lk reported that financial constraints likely prevented VAR’s use in the preliminary stage. Sri Lanka must win or draw against Bangladesh on 11 November to reach the semi-finals.

SportsEnglishසිංහලதமிழ்

NPP MP Chandana Sooriyarachchi outlines reforms to eliminate corruption and cut taxes

November 10·1 source

National People's Power MP Chandana Sooriyarachchi said the government is introducing new legislation to eliminate corruption, fraud, and waste while establishing an investment-friendly economic environment, national security, and the rule of law. Responding to criticisms over high taxation, he stated that the government plans to gradually reduce indirect taxes in future budgets as the economy strengthens and tax revenues are managed properly. Sooriyarachchi stated that an unprecedented 2,000 billion rupees was allocated for capital expenditure to improve infrastructure, transport, and the productive economy. He added that integrating technology into export sectors produced record export revenue. He also said the Prevention of Terrorism Act No. 48 of 1979 has been completely repealed and replaced by a new Protection from Terrorism Bill.

Politicsதமிழ்

Northern fishermen warn Indian fishing practices are destroying seabeds in northern waters

November 10·1 source

Fishermen in the North have warned that Indian fishermen are gradually destroying seabeds in Sri Lankan waters by using advanced technology, damaging corals, seagrass, and other marine vegetation. Northern fisherman Raj Sutha stated that the destruction is visible through diving and has been recorded on video, cautioning that depleting marine resources threatens local small-scale fishermen's livelihoods. The fishermen urged the government to intervene and conduct a research study to evaluate seabed damage and propose solutions. Fisheries Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar said officials would visit Tamil Nadu to discuss fishermen's issues. Meanwhile, the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency confirmed no recent research is underway on northern seabeds.

Environment & WeatherEnglish

President’s secretary urges public sector modernisation to address low productivity

November 10·1 source

Sri Lanka’s public sector employs roughly 15 percent of the national workforce and consumes 26 percent of government expenditure, but contributes only around five percent to GDP, President’s Secretary Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake said on Sunday (8). Speaking at the National Productivity Awards in Colombo, Dr. Kumanayake noted that low state efficiency depresses public sector wages and drives skilled personnel to private or overseas jobs, sustaining a low-productivity cycle. He urged modernising state administration through technology, automation, and digitalisation, alongside workplace attitude and discipline reforms aligned with the government’s "Clean Sri Lanka" initiative. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake attended the ceremony at the BMICH, presenting Gold Awards to institutions recognised for excellence in productivity and innovation.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Sajith Premadasa blames poor Colombo drainage for catastrophic flooding

November 10·1 source

Leader of the Opposition Sajith Premadasa stated on 8 November 2026 that undeveloped drains and uncollected waste in Colombo left many residents facing a catastrophic situation following torrential rains. He noted that the Mayor admitted Colombo's drainage system handles only 30 to 50 mm of rain, whereas recent intense rainfall reached about 120 mm. Experts cited water drainage failures as the cause. Premadasa stated meteorological records show that heavier rains in 1993 (493.7 mm) and 2010 (440.2 mm), as well as rainfall in 1992, 2005, and 2016, did not cause such disasters. He added that a Samagi Jana Balawegaya government would have implemented an advanced storm water drainage system comparable to technology used in Singapore.

Environment & Weatherසිංහල

Cabinet approves MoU between George Mason University and Arthur C. Clarke Institute

November 10·1 source

The Cabinet has approved signing a five-year Memorandum of Understanding between George Mason University in the United States and the Arthur C. Clarke Institute for Modern Technologies to enhance science and technology research collaborations. Under the agreement, proposed by the Minister of Science and Technology, both institutions will identify research challenges, develop technological solutions, and carry out mutually beneficial joint research. Collaboration will focus on key technological fields, including cybersecurity, unmanned aerial vehicles, space and satellite technology, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and 5G communication.

Educationதமிழ்

Science and Technology Ministry launches National Science Week from 10 to 17 November

November 10·1 source

Science and Technology Minister Professor Krishantha Abeysekera announced that National Science Week 2026 will run from 10 to 17 November to mark World Science Day. The inaugural ceremony was scheduled for 10 November at the Industrial Technology Institute in Colombo. Its main program, 'Science to Market', will be held from 13 to 15 November at the Bandaranaike International Conference Hall in Colombo, focusing on promoting science, technology, and innovation for national development. The initiative connects students, researchers, entrepreneurs, and investors to showcase innovations and commercialize local technological solutions. Ministry Secretary Dr. Roshini Dissanayake stated that 14 affiliated institutions have organized joint programs across various locations.

Educationසිංහල

Modernising palmyrah sector could double export earnings, says board chairperson

November 10·1 source

Palmyrah Development Board Chairperson R. Raveenthiran on 9 November 2026 said the palmyrah industry needs advanced technology to meet international standards. He noted this modernisation could double the industry's export income, which stood at Rs 599.95 million in 2025. The sector supports approximately 65,000 families in the Northern and Eastern provinces, including over 7,000 families directly engaged in tapping, cultivation, and raw material supply, alongside 50 exporters and dozens of cooperatives and small industries. Raveenthiran highlighted challenges such as seasonal oversupply, poor storage, declining raw materials, trade barriers, and underdeveloped marketing networks. He added that the Palmyrah Research Institute is taking steps to develop new technologies and improve product quality.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Meta to expand AI age verification globally to protect teenagers on social media

November 10·1 source

Meta will globally expand its artificial intelligence age verification technology starting in November 2026, following accusations that it failed to prevent harm to youth and incurred billions of dollars in legal settlements. The AI technology analyzes user behavior and posts. If an account holder is suspected of being a teenager, they will automatically be placed into a "Teen Account" safe zone, even if an adult date of birth was provided. American parents will be informed about the measure in November 2026. The technology is scheduled to be introduced to Facebook and Threads by the end of the year.

Economy & Businessසිංහල

Sri Lanka seeks German cooperation to expand advanced manufacturing and support SMEs

November 10·1 source

Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Chathuranga Abeysinghe said the government is working to expand cooperation with Germany in advanced manufacturing, trade, and investment. Speaking at an event in Colombo, Abeysinghe noted plans to progressively remove trade barriers by 2029 and shift Sri Lanka’s manufacturing from low labour costs to advanced technology and high value-added production. The ministry is preparing 300 to 400 small and medium-sized enterprises to access global markets with international support in technology, financial management, and market access. Abeysinghe added that the government is focusing on infrastructure, expanding port and airport capacity, and strengthening vocational skills through public-private partnerships.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Health Minister reviews Arogya healthcare pilot project and announces hospital takeover plans

November 10·1 source

Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa chaired a year-end review meeting on November 7 and 8 for the Arogya Health and Wellness Centre pilot project, which aims to support universal health coverage. Jayatissa announced that the central government expects to take over all tertiary-level hospitals before the end of this year. He added that national development requires a gross domestic product of approximately US$ 200 billion. Under government plans, the healthcare network will expand in coming years by equipping primary and tertiary systems with modern technology. The review covered digital infrastructure, health programmes, human resources, and standardised care packages. Health Services Director General Dr. Asela Gunawardena, other senior ministry officials, and regional healthcare staff also attended the meeting.

HealthEnglish

Hayleys Retail Holdings selects Blue Yonder to build its grocery retail operations

November 10·1 source

Hayleys Retail Holdings Ltd announced on 10 November 2026 that it has selected Blue Yonder to build its grocery retail operations using artificial intelligence and connected supply chain technology. The company stated that it plans to open multiple stores across Sri Lanka in the near future to provide reliable service and greater convenience to consumers.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Chinese autonomous passenger drone completes demonstration flight at Colombo Port City

November 10·1 source

China's EH216-S autonomous passenger-carrying aircraft completed a demonstration flight at Colombo Port City, the Chinese Embassy in Colombo announced. The two-passenger electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, developed by Guangzhou-based EHang Holdings, operates autonomously with battery power and without an onboard pilot. The Embassy stated the technology presents potential for Sri Lanka’s tourism, connectivity, and modern urban transport, ahead of an official demonstration scheduled for 11 November 2026. The Sri Lankan government has not yet announced regulations for electric air transport.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

National Youth Services Council concludes three-day Agripreneur Boost Camp in Athungama

November 10·1 source

The National Youth Services Council concluded its three-day Agripreneur Boost Camp 2026, held from November 6 to 8 at the National Youth Development Centre in Athungama. Youth from 14 agricultural training centers participated, developing 28 acres at the Athungama farm into a model agricultural training facility while receiving training in modern technology and agricultural knowledge. In team competitions, the Eraminiyaya Training Center won first place, followed by Batangala in second and Monaragala in third. NYSC Chairman and Director General Attorney-at-Law Supun Wijerathna patronized the closing ceremony. As a next step, an agri-entrepreneurship exhibition showcasing new food and harvest-related products is scheduled to take place at the Athungama center at the end of the year.

Educationසිංහල

Eight literary works by young Badulla writers launched at Uva Provincial Library

November 10·1 source

Eight new literary works by seven young writers from Badulla District were launched at the “Smruti” ceremony on November 8 at the Uva Provincial Library Auditorium. Deputy Minister of Youth Affairs Dinindu Saman Hennayake presided over the event alongside Uva Provincial Chief Secretary Anusha Gokula and Uva Provincial Library Services Board Chairman Nissanka Wijemanne. Hennayake stated that litterateurs hold a unique ability to reshape the world beyond politics, science, or technology, describing literature as an essential factor for guiding positive societal transformation. The released works included novels and poetry collections by Dimuthu Samudra Liyanage, Lakmal Dinushan, Lisandi Attanayake, Nayana Wickramarathne, Chalani Kaushalya, Jaya Jayaratne, and Sathira Lochana Liyanage.

Entertainment & Cultureසිංහල

Scientists develop transparent wood technology for energy-efficient windows and electronics

November 10·1 source

Scientists have developed transparent wood technology by removing lignin from natural wood and introducing a special polymer to allow light transmission. According to research published in the journal Molecules in 2025, the composite material can transmit between 10% and 90% of light, depending on the methods and materials used. A 2025 review in the journal Building and Environment highlighted the material's energy efficiency and thermal management capabilities for window systems. Researchers are also studying its applications for solar energy systems, specialized electronic devices, lighting, and packaging products. However, the technology remains in the research stage due to high costs, chemical production challenges, large-scale manufacturing difficulties, and durability concerns against weather and ultraviolet rays. Researchers are currently exploring environmentally friendly bio-based polymers to replace petroleum-based materials.

Otherසිංහල

Global Business Forum 2026 and Global Brands Awards held at Temple Trees

November 9·2 sources

The Global Business Forum 2026 – Season 3, Sri Lanka Chapter, and the Global Brands Awards ceremony were held on 31 October at Temple Trees in Colombo. Organised by ANYELP GROUP, founded by Zakir Hussain, the event brought together international business leaders, entrepreneurs, and delegates to promote professional networking, innovation, leadership, technology, and sustainable growth. The Global Brands Awards honoured selected entrepreneurs, businesses, and professionals for their leadership, innovation, and industry contributions, while also encouraging emerging young entrepreneurs. Nobel Peace Prize laureate Professor Mohan Munasinghe addressed the gathering on business sustainability and artificial intelligence. Educational strategist Chirag Nanda spoke on technological change and future leadership, while Indian actor Mohammed Ali also attended.

Economy & BusinessEnglishதமிழ்

Passenger drone tests begin at Colombo Port City ahead of 11 November demonstration

November 9·1 source

Passenger drones are being test-flown at Colombo Port City ahead of an official demonstration on 11 November, as Sri Lanka explores introducing electric air transport. The flights form part of a pilot initiative with Guangzhou-based EHang Holdings, an autonomous aviation technology firm specialising in electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft. A video on social media showed a drone, reportedly capable of carrying two people, flying inside Port City. The initiative also covers tourism and logistics uses. According to the Defence Ministry, the demonstration will show how the technology could improve urban air mobility and provide new travel experiences for tourists. The Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka has held talks with EHang Holdings and authorities, though no regulatory framework, operator, commercial timeline, or cost has been announced.

Economy & BusinessEnglish

Dr. Sanjana Hattotuwa warns AI will displace workers unfamiliar with new technology

November 9·1 source

Dr. Sanjana Hattotuwa stated that over 20% of office and professional jobs globally and in Sri Lanka have been affected by artificial intelligence. Speaking at a South Asian Women in Media workshop, he estimated that one-third of professional fields could lose jobs to AI within a decade. Workers proficient with AI tools will retain employment, while those unfamiliar with the technology risk job losses. Hattotuwa identified routine clerical tasks, data entry, customer service, report generation, translation, journalism, and creative arts as vulnerable fields. Conversely, manual trades like carpentry, plumbing, and vehicle repair, along with roles requiring empathy and leadership—such as healthcare, education, and management—cannot be fully replaced by AI.

Economy & Businessසිංහල

IMF chief says central banks must factor AI growth slowdown into inflation fight

November 9·1 source

Speaking at IMF headquarters on Friday (6), International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said central banks must consider any slowdown in artificial intelligence-driven growth when taking steps to fight inflation. Georgieva noted that market volatility driven by dependence on the AI investment boom complicates central banks' work as price stability risks grow, although AI spending had previously helped offset oil-supply shocks from Middle East conflicts. A recent technology stock rout followed Democratic victories in US mid-term elections on fears of increased AI regulations and slower data-center build-outs when Democrats take control of Congress in January. The IMF previously warned that a steep collapse in AI investment could cut global gross domestic product by 1.1% and US output by 1.8% by 2028.

Economy & BusinessEnglish