www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.themorning.lk epaper.themorning.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk www.aruna.lk epaper.aruna.lk WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2020

For verified information on the Quarantine Unit COVID-19 TOTAL CASES TOTAL CASES coronavirus (Covid-19) contact any 0112 112 705 ACTIVE CASES of the following authorities CASES IN Epidemiology Unit Health THE WORLD 43,877,830 Suwasariya 0112 695 112 PROTECT YOURSELF FROM 8,870 Promotion Ambulance DEATHS CASES DEATHS Bureau Service Govt. coronavirus hotline USA 8,964,331 231,129 COVID-19 DEATHS RECOVERED 1999 1990 0113071073 1,166,174 INDIA 7,946,429 119,535 BRAZIL 5,411,550 157,451 PRESIDENTIAL SPECIAL TASK FORCE FOR ESSENTIAL SERVICES RECOVERD RUSSIA 1,547,774 26,589 19 4,043 Telephone 0114354854, 0114733600 Fax 0112333066, 0114354882 4,808 Hotline 0113456200-4 Email [email protected] 32,239,669 FRANCE 1,165,278 35,018 THE ABOVE STATISTICS ARE CONFIRMED UP UNTIL 10.10 P.M. ON 27 OCTOBER 2020 SOURCE: HEALTH PROMOTION BUREAU

NEW COVID-19 DETECTIONS COVID-19 KICKSTARTING TOURISM TOTAL CASES Rapid antigen 3 tour groups 5,396* Stats updated as at 8.00 p.m. on 27 October ready to visit COVID-19 BY SKANDHA GUNASEKARA Cases surpass 8,000 mark Awaiting health A total of three international authorities’ has exceeded the 8,000 tests to be tour groups have been organised mark of Covid-19-positive cases, it by the Ministry of Tourism in an approval is learnt. With the recent detection effort to kickstart tourism, The The tourism sector is of 280 Covid-19 cases, the total Morning learnt. awaiting health authorities’ number of cases recorded in Sri Minister of Tourism Prasanna green light to begin Lanka is at 8,152. introduced Ranatunga said that the two groups, welcoming tourists to the from Germany and Australia, had country once again. Hatton town isolated z New testing method to expedite z Rapid antigen testing not the also been scheduled to visit Sri Contd. on page 2 Hatton town was declared an testing process solution: Lab technicians Lanka in November and December isolated area as a measure to prevent this year. some had even proposed to fly by the spread of Covid-19, Army BY MAHEESHA MUDUGAMUWA be obtained within 10-15 minutes “We made arrangements for private jet. Another group from Commander Lt. Gen. Shavendra through a rapid antigen test. a group of 200-odd Germans to Australia was also in the pipeline,” Silva said yesterday (27). As the number of people infected with Covid-19 continues “Rapid antigen testing has been visit Sri Lanka in November. This the Minister said. to increase rapidly, steps have being been taken by the approved by the World Health was a high-end tourist group as Contd. on page 2 PCR testing in Ministry of Health (MoH) to introduce the rapid antigen test Organisation (WHO),” he added. for Covid-19 detection in Sri Lanka in order to expedite the As learnt by The Morning, approval SL records The Epidemiology Unit of the testing process of suspected persons by providing the test has been given by the authorities to Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) results within a short period, MoH Deputy Director General of order the new rapid antigen testing kits, 3 more deaths noted that PCR tests will be conducted Laboratory Services Dr. Ananda Jayalal said. and Sri Lanka is expected to receive Sri Lanka reported three more in several areas in Colombo. 20,000 test kits as the first batch from deaths from Covid-19 yesterday He told the media that at present, results via PCR testing, the Ministry the WHO in the coming days, while (27), bringing the total number of 9 medical officers infected the labs are receiving higher numbers has decided to introduce a rapid the State Pharmaceuticals Corporation deaths to 19. Nine medical officers who of samples to be tested, and since testing mechanism. (SPC) will continue to order them. Contd. on page 2 there is a delay in obtaining test Dr. Jayalal said the test could Contd. on page 2 conducted PCR tests on the ECONOMIC RECOVERY associates of the Peliyagoda cluster tested positive for Covid- QUARANTINE INCREASING COVID CASES Focus on 19 yesterday (27), public health CURFEW AND ISOLATED AREAS inspectors (PHIs) confirmed. ‘No direct social BRANDIX COVID CLUSTER out-of-the- „ Gampaha district AG orders Museums closed to public „ Colombo district transmission’ box thinking All museums under the Central yy Dematagoda yy Keselwatte Despite the increasing numbers of Covid- The Government is to look at Cultural Fund (CCF) are closed yy Maradana yy Dam Street 19-positive patients within the country police probe strong fiscal management and to the public, the CCF announced. yy Kotahena yy Aduruppu Street and Covid-19-related deaths, Co-Cabinet The Attorney General (AG) out-of-the-box thinking for the This decision was taken as a yy Mattakkuliya Spokesman and Minister of Plantations Dr. yesterday (27) directed the Acting country's economic revival in preventive measure against the yy Modara yy Weralabada Police Station Ramesh Patirana yesterday (27) reiterated Inspector General of Police (IGP) the face of external and internal yy Wellampitiya prevailing Covid-19 outbreak in yy Pettah that there was no direct social transmission to investigate the spread of Covid- challenges posed by the Covid-19 yy Bloemendhal the country, it stated. yy Fort of the virus within the country. 19 from the Brandix apparel pandemic. yy Grandpass yy Borella Contd. on page 2 factory in Minuwangoda. Contd. on page 2 yy Gothatuwa yy Welikada Contd. on page 2 More areas isolated yy Mulleyirawa A decision was taken to MP Rishad yy Maligawatte yy Moratuwa Bathiudeen isolate the area surrounding the yy Homagama Keselwatta Public Market in „ Kalutara district Panadura yesterday (27), the yy Payagala National Operation Centre for yy Aluthgama Prevention of Covid-19 Outbreak yy Beruwala (NOCPCO) stated. yy Panadura Rishad Foreigners' visas extended „ Kurunegala district yy Kuliyapitiya The Department of Immigration remanded yy Pannala and Emigration said that due to the yy Giriulla spread of the Covid-19 virus in the till Nov. country, it was decided to extend yy Narammala z Court rejects bail yy Dummalasuriya the validity period of all types of „ Nuwara Eliya District „ application visas issued to all foreigners who yy Hatton town Mannar District The Colombo Fort Magistrate’s are currently residing in Sri Lanka, yy Periyakadai Court has rejected the bail * Updated as at „ Ratnapura District for a period of 60 days. 9.00 p.m. on 27th October application submitted by MP yy Palabaddala yy Pattitottam Source: Sri Lanka Police Rishad Bathiudeen. Accordingly, the parliamentarian Curfew in 3 areas COVID-19 was remanded until 10 November. Quarantine curfew has been Contd. on page 2 imposed in the Panadura, Essential services SL-US RELATIONS Moratuwa, and Homagama police POMPEO’S VISIT areas with immediate effect, Army in curfew areas Pompeo arrives Commander Lt. Gen. Shavendra The Government has assigned specific days of US Secretary of State Michael R. JVP protest Silva stated. Accordingly, the curfew will be in effect until further the week for the operation of essential services, Pompeo arrived in Sri Lanka yesterday notice, he stated. including pharmacies, in curfew-imposed (27) for a two-day bilateral discussion, against ‘US areas, Army Commander Lt. Gen. Shavendra the US Embassy in Sri Lanka announced. SEE FULL STORIES ON PAGE 2 Lt. Gen. Silva stated. US Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo Contd. on page 2 interference’ Shavendra Silva Contd. on page 2 arrived in Sri Lanka last night (27) The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) submitted a letter to the US MANNAR WIND POWER PLANT Embassy in Sri Lanka, protesting the Swiss envoy efforts made by the US Government Survey ordered to interfere with the independence Completion in 2021: Govt. and sovereignty of Sri Lanka, The construction of a wind the completion of 100 MW, it commends coinciding with the arrival of US power plant in Mannar is now is now identified that out of the to determine Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. expected to be completed in $ 200 million, $ 47 million is Contd. on page 2 2021, according to Minister of left and therefore it has been SL’s efforts encroachment SRI LANKAN MISSIONS Energy Udaya Gammanpila. decided to produce additional z Calling on Prime Minister Addressing the cabinet 20 MW of power by using six Cabinet approves granting permission Mahinda Rajapaksa in Colombo last Setting up in Spain media briefing, he said that turbines,” Gammanpila said. for chena cultivation Monday (26) morning, Ambassador once completed, the wind The Mannar Wind Power BY SARAH HANNAN of Switzerland to Sri Lanka and Romania power plant would add Project, which is at least a Dominik Furgler discussed a The Government of Sri Lanka 120 MW of power to the year behind its schedule, will Surveys are to be conducted in sanctuaries number of areas to further decided to establish Sri Lankan national grid. add 100 MW to the national and forest reserve lands across the country to co-operation between the two embassies in Romania and Spain “The power plant is being grid by the end of this year, identify alleged encroachments and proceed countries, including investment, in view of developing the existing constructed on a grant of $ according to the Ministry of with legal action, The Morning learnt. exports, tourism, and fighting the relations with the two European Mannar Wind Minister Mahinda 200 million received by Sri Power. Contd. on page 2 Amaraweera Covid-19 pandemic. countries. Lanka. However, following Contd. on page 2 Power Plant Contd. on page 2 Contd. on page 2 2 the morning NEWS Wednesday , October 28, 2020

Contd. from page 1

Place in Dehiwala in the early hours of 19 infectious than the virus which was identified Among them, 4,203 are active cases and are immigration.gov.lk, [email protected]. Rapid antigen... October. during the first wave. receiving medical care at selected hospitals across lk, and [email protected]. Necessary Meanwhile, medical laboratory technicians He was later produced before the Fort “We depend on advice given by specialist the island. The Minuwangoda and Peliyagoda advice in this regard will be communicated (MLTs) have raised concerns over the Magistrate’s Court and remanded. doctors on epidemiology and as of now, the clusters have grown to 4,678 cases. The country accordingly via the same channel. Call 0707 Government’s decision to introduce the rapid patients are directly connected to either the also witnessed its 19th death from Covid-19 101 050 for inquiries. antigen test instead of the antibody test and Brandix or Peliyagoda clusters,” he noted. yesterday (27). Meanwhile, the tally of Covid- serum test. They also alleged that the restrictions Survey ordered... “The public must take necessary precautions 19 recoveries reported reached 4,043 cases that have been put in place by the Government Minister of Environment Mahinda to avoid the spread within society,” he added. yesterday as 110 more patients were discharged Setting up... to limit PCR tests and rapid antigen tests were Amaraweera, in collaboration with the Ministry Commenting further on the Government’s from their respective hospitals upon complete The proposal tabled by Minister of Foreign delaying the testing results and that the MLTs of Wildlife and Forest Conservation and the decision to self-quarantine the first contacts of recovery. Relations Dinesh Gunawardena received the should be given the authority to conduct available Ministry of Land, is to propose a cabinet paper Covid-19-positive patients, Dr. Pathirana noted approval of the Cabinet of Ministers during testing within the laboratories to confirm the issuing directives to set up clear demarcations in that the decision was taken considering the its meeting held on Monday (26). Bilateral Covid-19 virus. Sri Lanka Association of the perimeters of sanctuaries and forest reserve capacities of the quarantine centres islandwide. SL records ... relations between Sri Lanka and the south-eastern Government Medical Laboratory Technologist lands. The move is said to aid legal action “The authorities would be continuously The deceased were a 41-year-old male residing European country Romania commenced in (SLGMLT) President Ravi Kumudesh told The proceedings against persons and institutions that monitoring those who are sent on self-quarantine in Ja-Ela, a 87-year-old female from Slave Island, 1957, while relations with Spain, a country on Morning that the authorities had not discussed have encroached into such protected land areas. and there won’t be any patient who will not be and a 19-year-old male from Keselwatta. The Europe’s Iberian Peninsula, started off in 1955. with the MLTs to see the possibilities of using “With the boundaries dissolving between the monitored by public health inspectors (PHIs) and 41-year-old had passed away while receiving Sri Lanka has since formed strong two-way available tests to confirm Covid-19, adding protected land areas and cultivation lands that medical officers of health (MOHs),” he added. medical treatment at the National Institute of relations with these two nations. that the implementation of the rapid antigen seem to be expanding due to the non-existing – Maheesha Mudugamuwa Infectious Diseases (IDH) in Angoda after being test was also decided without consulting the perimeter fences, it has become a challenge admitted on 24 October and had been suffering MLTs. “The rapid antigen test is not the solution for us to take legal action against the alleged from cirrhosis prior to his death, it was reported. JVP protest... to identify coronavirus. It is the worst test to encroachments,” Amaraweera explained. Focus on... The 75-year-old and 19-year-old were found “We do not believe that the visit of US identify antibodies,” he said, adding that the In the meantime, this week, the Cabinet of Addressing the cabinet meeting on Monday dead whilst receiving treatment at the National Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to Sri Lanka introduction of the antigen test was also part of Ministers had also approved the procedure that (26), State Minister Ajith Nivard Cabraal Hospital in Colombo. is at all to do with a ‘commitment to a strong, a testing racket by several big bug pharmacy was proposed by the officers of the Ministry of explained the present economic situation in independent, and democratic Sri Lanka’ as stated companies. Wildlife and Forest Conservation, the Ministry the country and proposed several areas to be in the briefing of Principal Deputy Assistant of Environment, and the Ministry of Land addressed to revive the economy. 9 medica... Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs over putting underutilised lands that do not fall Cabinet Spokesperson Minister Keheliya The nine officers had tested positive after Dean Thompson and Assistant Secretary for 3 tour... under conserved and protected forests for chena Rambukwella told The Morning that Cabraal undergoing mandatory PCR testing, which East Asian and Pacific Affairs David Stilwell He said these two groups were in addition to farming and temporary economic activities. emphasised the need for strong fiscal policies applies to all the Peliyagoda associates, and on 22 October 2020,” the letter stated. The JVP a large number of Russian tourists set to visit “It was in 2006 that a decision was taken and management. Rambulwella also said that were admitted for treatment. pointed out that the US has consistently sought the island in November. to transfer the powers vested in the divisional the State Minister noted the importance of to bring Sri Lanka under its sphere of influence “Around 40,000 Russians were to come as secretariats to authorise the use of the remaining implementing new income-generation methods and thereby drag Sri Lanka into an unnecessary well,” he added. However, he said that all plans non-forest lands for activities such as chena through out-of-the-box thinking. Museums closed... and costly global and regional power play. have been put on hold until the recent coronavirus cultivation, other farming, and temporary Accordingly, all museums in the country are “We are well aware that several critical outbreak is contained and pacified. “Everything economic activities over to an Inter-Ministerial closed until further notice. military and trade agreements are pending has been halted because of the Covid-19 situation Committee. This year in July, we came up with Completion... which the US Government is pressurising on the ground. We are awaiting the green light a simplified method of granting permission to As learnt by The Sunday Morning, the Ceylon the Government of Sri Lanka to enter into from the health authorities to recommence.” engage in such economic activities would be Electricity Board (CEB) has incurred millions PCR testing... without proper accountability and due process. appropriate in order to minimise the hardships of rupees due to the delay in commissioning According to CMC Regional Epidemiologist Unfortunately, the current Government of Sri faced by those engaged in cultivation,” Minister the wind power project. Dr. Dinuka Guruge, PCR tests will be carried Lanka has proven itself unable to maintain an Awaiting health... of Wildlife and Forest Conservation C.B. The contract has been awarded by the CEB out in the Sampithpura, Swarna Chaithya Road, independent and non-aligned stance on these “We have put forward proposals for tourism Rathnayaka noted. The new procedure presented to Vestas Asia Pacific AS, a world-renowned Dematagoda, and Borella localities. issues,” it further stated. The JVP demanded revival but are now waiting for the health services in the combined proposal presented by the Danish wind turbine manufacturer, to build the that the US Embassy clarify the undeclared to determine when it is safe so that they can give Ministry of Wildlife and Forest Conservation, first large-scale wind farm in Sri Lanka in the secret options, the signing of the Millennium the all-clear to begin international tourism once the Ministry of Environment, and the Ministry southern coast of Mannar Island. Essential... Challenge Corporation (MCC) agreement, the again,” Minister of Tourism Prasanna Ranatunga of Land is to be implemented through an The project comprises 30 state-of-the-art Accordingly, essential service outlets in the strengthening of the Status of Forces Agreement told The Morning. He said that several plans Inter-Ministerial Committee that comprises wind turbines, each rated to 3.45 MW. The total Gampaha and Kalutara Districts are allowed to (SOFA), pulling Sri Lanka to be a partner of had been put on hold due to the most recent representatives from all three ministries. installed capacity of this wind farm is 103.5 operate every Monday and Thursday. Quad, and many more. outbreak of the Covid-19. MW. The Mannar Wind Power Project recently Tuesday and Friday have been assigned for The JVP further assured that the people “Our plans have been postponed as our completed the final main gravity foundation outlets in the Colombo and Kurunegala Districts. of Sri Lanka have no intention of tying its country’s Covid-19 situation and health sector More areas... along with the erection of the 10th wind turbine. Essential service outlets are allowed to remain fortunes to a regime and will take all steps in come first. We will go ahead with our plans Previously, a fishmonger at the market has The primary contractor, Vestas Asia Pacific, open from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. on these assigned their power to resist the ambitions of the US only after the health services have given their been identified to have contracted the virus. along with their specialist civil engineering days in the relevant areas. Government to compromise the nation’s regional approval,” he added. Subsequent PCR tests detected 12 more cases contractor, Access Engineering PLC, has and international independence. – Skandha Gunasekara from Panadura North and Panadura South. achieved satisfactory progress amidst challenging Foreigners’ visas... Meanwhile, nine grama niladhari divisions conditions of the Covid-19 pandemic. The AG orders... Pompeo... (GNDs) in the Palabaddala, Ratnapura have project work commenced in March 2019. Accordingly, the validity period of all types been isolated. The isolated GNDs are Gilimale, – Maheesha Mudugamuwa of visas will be extended from 7 October 2020 He also instructed the Police to submit a In the days leading up to the US presidential North Gilimale, South Gilimale, Ketawala, to 5 December 2020. The procedure to pay the progress report on the investigations within vote, Pompeo is travelling to New , India; Sri Palabaddala, Malwala, Siripagama, relevant visa fee and to get the visa endorsed in two weeks. The Minuwangoda facility had Colombo, Sri Lanka; Malé, Maldives; and Embuldeniya, and Matalana. Hatton town... the passport will be informed later, it said. Hence, become the epicentre of a surprise resurgence Jakarta, Indonesia between 25 and 30 October. The decision has come after a close contact Accordingly, no person will be permitted foreigners are hereby informed to refrain from of Covid-19 cases in the country after a female The US delegation led by the US State Secretary of the Peliyagoda Fish Market cluster and six to enter or leave areas designated as isolated. visiting the Visa Division of the Department employee of the factory tested positive for the landed in India on Monday (26). In New Delhi, members of his family have tested positive for Reports revealed that 10 more positive cases of Immigration and Emigration. “If you intend virus earlier this month. Pompeo and US Secretary of Defense Mark T. the virus. Among them is a nine-month-old of Covid-19 were identified from the Hatton to leave the island during the aforementioned Brandix, a prominent apparel manufacturer Esper and their Indian counterparts are leading the baby, it is learnt. town yesterday. It was reported that a vendor period, your journey will be facilitated by paying in the country, said that the rigorous protocol third annual US-India 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue at the Hatton weekly fair who had purchased the relevant visa fee at the airport without any implemented across the label and the immediate to advance the US-India Comprehensive Global stocks of fish from the Peliyagoda Fish Market penalty,” the press release said. response and support received from the Public Strategic and expand co-operation Curfew... was exposed to the virus. Thirty contacts of The validity period of the acknowledgements Health Inspector (PHI) of the area and relevant to promote stability and prosperity in the Indo- Meanwhile, 164 new Covid-19 cases were this person were subsequently referred for issued for the applications already submitted to health authorities of Sri Lanka enabled the early Pacific and the world. During his visit in Sri detected last night (27), bringing the total number PCR testing and 10 of them tested positive the Department of Immigration and Emigration detection of the patient, ensuring her timely Lanka, Pompeo is expected to hold bilateral of cases for yesterday to 457. for Covid-19, Hatton-Dickoya Urban Council to obtain visas, will also be extended for another transfer to the Infectious Diseases Hospital talks with President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Chairman S. Balachandran said. The fresh cases period of 60 days, till 5 December 2020. (IDH) for immediate treatment and mitigation other high-profile officials on several areas include four family members of the fish vendor Those who intend to leave the country during of any further spread of the virus. However, the of the multifaceted engagement between the No direct... in question, his driver, and five other vendors the given period are advised to send a request virus soon spread to other apparel factories in the two countries. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Addressing a cabinet media briefing, the in the Hatton town. to obtain their passport along with a scanned District and other parts of the country, while it said the US Secretary of State is undertaking Minister stressed that the Covid-19 virus copy of the acknowledgement and the flight is believed to have also led to the emergence of this official visit to Sri Lanka on an invitation identified recently in the country is more Cases surpass... ticket to the following email addresses: dcvisa@ another cluster – the Peliyagoda Fish Market. extended by his Sri Lankan counterpart, Minister The total confirmed cases from the Minuwangoda of Foreign Affairs Dinesh Gunawardena. After and Peliyagoda clusters have neared the 5,000 Colombo, Pompeo will travel to Malé to reaffirm mark, presently becoming the biggest Covid- their close bilateral relationship and advance 19 outbreak in the country yet. Meanwhile, the their partnership on issues ranging from regional Cartoon of the day death toll from the virus climbed to 19 yesterday. maritime security to the fight against terrorism. Thereafter, the US Secretary of State will travel to Jakarta to deliver public remarks and Swiss envoy... meet with his Indonesian counterparts to affirm The Ambassador commended the manner in the two countries’ vision of a free and open which the Government of Sri Lanka is responding Indo-Pacific. to the coronavirus outbreak by “publishing clear rules and enforcing them”, stated the Prime Minister’s Office. Prime Minister Rajapaksa Rishad... said that while lockdowns and health precautions Former Minister of Industry and can be difficult on everyone, sometimes it’s Commerce Bathiudeen, Project Director necessary to keep people safe. Mohamed Yaseen Samsudeen, and Project “I admire the way you deal with the Covid. I Accountant Alagarathnam Manoranjan are feel safer this way,” Ambassador Furgler said. To accused of violating Article 82 (1) of the contribute to the Sri Lankan Government’s efforts Presidential Elections Act (No. 15 of 1981) by to contain the outbreak, the Swiss Government is misappropriating public funds to the tune of Rs. providing assistance to Sri Lanka with equipment 9.5 million. They have allegedly misused 222 that would enable faster PCR tests at the airport. buses belonging to the state-owned Sri Lanka This is also part of a collaboration to try to revive Transport Board (SLTB) to transport internally tourism to Sri Lanka once the situation improves. displaced persons (IDPs) from Puttalam to Towards that end, the Swiss Government has also polling stations in Silavathurai, Mannar during provided technical assistance to the Sri Lanka the 2019 presidential election. The Criminal Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management Investigation Department (CID), upon the (SLITHM) to upgrade infrastructure, provide directions of the Attorney General (AG), had training, and develop the curriculum. sought the Colombo Fort Magistrate to issue a The two delegations also discussed investments warrant to arrest MP Rishad Bathiudeen and and exports. With economic development being the other two suspects on charges of criminal a priority of the Government, the Ambassador misappropriation of public funds and violation said he will work on bringing in more Swiss of election laws. investments. Switzerland is currently the eighth However, the Magistrate ruled that the Police largest investor in Sri Lanka. With regard to can proceed to arrest the suspects without a exports, the delegations discussed ways in which warrant. Thereby, AG Dappula de Livera directed Sri Lanka can further diversify the export product the Police to arrest the three suspects according range to Switzerland to reap greater benefits to the law. from the Swiss GSP (Generalised System of On 14 October, the Fort Magistrate issued a Preferences) Plus (GSP+) facility. Currently, travel ban on the parliamentarian upon a request major exports from Sri Lanka to Switzerland by the CID. MP Bathiudeen was subsequently include apparel, black tea, seafood, and gems arrested at a housing complex located at Ebenezer and jewellery. the morning Wednesday, October 28, 2020 3 business INSEE Cement to buy dolomite from State Engineering Corporation INSEE Cement Sri INSEE Cement Chairman Chandana Nanayakkara Lanka signed an Nandana Ekanayake and attended the ceremony. agreement with the SEC Chairman Ratnasiri Commenting on the State Engineering Kalupahana signed and agreement, Ekanayake from Corporation (SEC) to exchanged the agreement INSEE Cement said: “We purchase dolomite, on behalf of the two are committed to building a raw material organisations. a resilient nation and used in the cement State Minister of Rural this agreement is another manufacturing process, Housing and Construction example of our commitment from SEC. and Building Material to help the local industries Industries Indika and communities.” The agreement was Anuruddha Herath, Additionally, he said signed in the presence of officials from the Ministry, this agreement furthers Prime Minister Mahinda SEC Deputy Chairman President Gotabaya Rajapaksa at the Parliament Bhagya Jayatilake, and Rajapaksa’s “Vision of premises, which entails INSEE Cement Director Prosperity” for the nation in INSEE Cement purchasing Procurement and Logistics supporting the development dolomite from a quarry Thusith Gunawarnasuriya, of small industries and deposit owned and operated and Head of External Affairs creating employment for by the SEC in Matale. and Channel Development communities in Matale. Representatives of the SEC and INSEE Cement with the agreements, in the presence of Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa Ceylinco Life’s 9-month HNB secures $ 60 m pre-tax profit down 8.4% funding for SMEs Ceylinco Life reported profit before tax (PBT) of Rs. 5.29 billion and profit after tax (PAT) of Rs. 4.18 billion for the nine months ended 30 September 2020, from Proparco recording declines of 8.4% and Hatton National Bank PLC 6.7%, respectively, on account of a (HNB) announced yesterday (27) lower transfer of Rs. 2.9 billion to that it signed a landmark agreement shareholder profits as against Rs. with Proparco, the private sector 3.3 billion for the first nine months funding arm of the French of 2019. Development Agency, to secure $ The insurer posted consolidated 60 million in funding. income of Rs. 26 billion for “We are delighted to enter into the nine months, achieving top this long-term loan agreement line growth of 14% in a period with Proparco at such a critical dominated by adverse conditions juncture in the history of the for business. Gross written Ceylinco Life Chairman R. Renganathan and MD/CEO Thushara Ranasinghe global economy. This is the premium income for the period second time HNB has partnered grew by 13.8% to Rs. 15.5 billion, footprint of life insurance in the 2020, while the company’s with Proparco since 2015. The while investment and other income market.” investment portfolio increased by agreement is a clear testimony for increased by 14.3% to Rs. 10.8 Ceylinco Life transferred Rs. 6.7 Rs. 27.4 billion or 23.5% over the the confidence placed in HNB by billion, the company reported. billion to its life fund for the period nine months to Rs. 144.3 billion international financial institutions, Proparco Head of Financial Institutions “Our results reflect Ceylinco under review, enlarging the life at the end of the third quarter of especially within the context of the HNB MD/CEO Jonathan Alles Life’s ability to maintain its fund to Rs. 103.6 billion as at 30 the year. The company’s net assets overhanging uncertainty on account and Inclusion Guillaume Barberousse momentum in terms of volumes September 2020, and transferred value per share stood at Rs. 716.08 of the Covid-19 pandemic. Through agribusiness, financial institutions, once again partner with HNB. even in difficult times, as well as Rs. 2.9 billion to the shareholders’ as at 30 September 2020, up by Rs. this long-term funding, HNB will healthcare, and education. Proparco’s $ 60 million credit line the resilience of the company’s fund in respect of the nine months, 86.23 or 13.6% YoY. be in a position to support the Proparco said its interventions will help HNB to further support investment strategies,” Ceylinco increasing the shareholder fund to Ceylinco Life has been Sri much aggrieved SME (small and support private sector actors who SMEs especially in rural areas. Life Managing Director/CEO Rs. 35.8 billion at the end of the Lanka’s leading life insurer for medium-sized enterprises) segment contribute to the United Nations This new operation reflects the Thushara Ranasinghe commented. third quarter. more than half of the 32 years of our nation,” HNB Managing Sustainable Development Goals ongoing commitment of Proparco “A decline in profits was The company said it paid Rs. 9.1 it has been in existence and Director/CEO Jonathan Alles (UN SDGs) by creating jobs and to facilitate access to credit for anticipated and factored in, as a billion in net claims and benefits currently has close to a million stated. decent incomes, providing essential job-creating SMEs,” said Proparco consequence of the need to make to policyholders for the period, lives covered by active policies. Proparco has been supporting goods and services, and who Head of Financial Institutions and provisions for the continuing an increase of 12.8% over the It was ranked the Most Valuable sustainable development for 40 contribute to poverty reduction and Inclusion Guillaume Barberousse. impact of the Covid-19 pandemic corresponding nine months of the Life Insurance Brand in Sri Lanka years across Africa, Asia, Latin the fight against climate change. With 252 customer centres on the business. We remain previous year. by Brand Finance this year and America, and the Middle East. Asia is Proparco’s third region of across the country, HNB is one of confident that our business model Total assets of Ceylinco Life has been declared the Peoples Life In 2019, Proparco committed € intervention, with € 388 million Sri Lanka’s largest banks and has will generate equitable returns for grew by Rs. 27.5 billion or 20.7% Insurance Service Provider of the 2.5 billion of financing, focused granted in 2019, representing 15% been ranked among the top 1,000 policyholders and shareholders since 31 December 2019 to Rs. Year for 14 consecutive years at on key development sectors: of its commitments. banks globally by The Banker alike, while expanding the 160.7 billion as at 30 September the SLIM-Nielsen Peoples Awards. Infrastructure, renewable energy, “Proparco is pleased to magazine. Sri Lanka@100 conducts first Microsoft extends ‘Highway capacity-building seminar in Kegalle to 100 Unicorns’ to Sri Sri Lanka@100, a private sector-led initiative focused on the growth of mid-market enterprises, conducted its Lankan start-ups first capacity-building event in Kegalle Following its success in India, to build up a more supportive competitions in their countries. on 29 September in conjunction with Microsoft for Startups recently ecosystem for start-ups in Criteria for start-ups to apply for the Kegalle Chamber of Commerce. launched the “Highway to a 100 Sri Lanka,” said Microsoft Emerge X is as follows: Funded by the US Government’s Unicorns” initiative in Sri Lanka Country Manager for Sri Lanka 1. Business-to-business (B2B) international development agency, to strengthen the region’s start-up and the Maldives Hasitha companies with product- USAID, and administered by Stax, ecosystem. Abeywardena. “Start-ups play market fit, revenue Sri Lanka@100 was launched in In India, only 56 start-ups a vital role in our economy as generating with at least three September to help mid-market were selected to the Emerge innovators, disruptors, and first- to four clients companies islandwide get better X programme from six states, movers. Sri Lanka needs more 2. Business-to-customer (B2C) access to high-calibre business which have over 15,000 start- entrepreneurial development to companies with a large advisory services. ups. fuel economic growth. Through customer base (upward of The seminar emphasised the need “The Emerge X winners have Highway to a 100 Unicorns, 100k customers) and are for selecting appropriate growth promoting private sector-led growth. businesses there would be contributors greatly benefited with global we will enable start-ups in Sri revenue-generating options and executing them with “While the Government is, of to making that vision a reality. market access support, a three- Lanka to drive digital innovation 3. Funding is a plus focus. Thivanka Bandara, a senior course, responsible for the wellbeing This sentiment was echoed by Sri day founder bootcamp with in the region. We look forward All Emerge X start-ups will consultant at Stax, spoke at length of all citizens, we must move away Lanka@100 Co-Founder Dr. Kumudu world-class mentors, access to to walking with founders be awarded with free GitHub about the pitfalls of diversifying too from this mindset of expecting the Gunasekera who said: “Development funding, ongoing mentorship, along their growth journey and and Azure credits and focused quickly and too broadly, without public sector to provide more and can come in many forms. We don’t and guidance on Azure, artificial supporting them to scale and business and technology the necessary focus. The seminar more jobs. We will only be able have to only undertake massive ‘hard intelligence, machine learning, achieve more.” workshops. Three finalists per concluded with discussions on a to rejuvenate our economy if we development’ projects like building and more,” Microsoft said. Innovators and entrepreneurs country will be announced systematic framework for growth and have an extremely strong private dams or roads. Building global brands High-income economies from Sri Lanka and 15 other in November. They will successful examples of diversification sector because even in challenging and businesses that can help Sri in Asia Pacific invest three countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, additionally benefit from a year- through focus. times such as now, there are still Lanka shine – that kind of intangible times more in research and Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, long mentorship with technical State Minister of Regional many pockets of opportunities for development is also crucial. You can development as compared to Laos, Malaysia, the Maldives, and business deep dives, a Co-operation Tharaka Balasuriya, growth that private entrepreneurs are all help make that happen.” their peers. To spur innovative Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, Founder Bootcamp over three delivering the keynote address, capitalising on,” he said. Sri Lanka@100 is accepting entrepreneurship, Microsoft the Philippines, Singapore, days, access to enterprise clients pointed to several examples of local Welcoming representatives from applications from mid-sized firms said it will work closely with Thailand, Vietnam) have been globally through Microsoft’s companies that have been successful over 40 leading businesses in the seeking advisory support for rapid governments and industry invited to be a part of the unique co-sell programme, as at regional and global levels. While area, Kegalle Chamber of Commerce growth. The eligibility criteria, partners to discover and nurture Highway to a 100 Unicorns well as opportunities to interact acknowledging that state policies also President Tissa Ranatunga emphasised application process, and deadlines technology start-ups with high initiative. with Microsoft experts and play an important role in supporting the importance of the platform’s aim are listed on the SL@100 website potential to become truly global To be considered, start- industry stalwarts. such companies to grow, he praised to make Sri Lanka a high-income (www.srilanka100.lk) and its social enterprises in the future. ups will first have to submit Applications are set to close the Sri Lanka@100 platform for country, adding that he hoped the media platforms. “At Microsoft, we are working an application for Emerge X on 31 October 2020. the morning 4 Wednesday, October 28, 2020 brunch PHOTOS LALITH PERERA Pelwatte continues to empower over 10,000 dairy farmers on best practices Dairy milk producer programmes thus far, and processor Pelwatte Pelwatte Dairy Managing Dairy Industries Ltd. Director Akmal continues to empower Wickramanayake said: dairy farmers amidst “Pelwatte is happy to economic challenges be a major stakeholder through a series of in this cause that designated training and would enrich our dairy knowledge-sharing farmers’ pool of 10,000 schemes, with the and nutrients, disease opportunity to empower families and beyond hope of keeping to its prevention and control, themselves to increase progressively. We hope commitment of enriching breeding and husbandry, the productivity and that the techniques, tips, lives, while also uplifting clean milk production, quality of their produce. and mechanisms will self-sufficiency and handling to storage, and The company hopes increase their overall supporting an increase in transportation, giving to empower farmers productivity in the higher milk yield. dairy farmers a holistic to specialise in their produce and ensure The training programmes and comprehensive jobs and give them the quality in the milk held at the training centre perspective into the essential skills required and overall growth in in Buttala following extensions. The sessions to manage and run a their lives, especially strict health guidelines were conducted by local business of their own. helping these farmers covered avenues from and international experts, Commenting on and supportive industries fodder care, feeds presenting farmers the the progress of the during these times.”

Work From Home and Learn From Home possibilities with Huawei devices Huawei, the global smartphone versions and allows users to own a similar performance. brand, has ensured that its devices laptop matching their requirements. The Huawei MateBook D meet the benchmarks needed to MateBook 13 comes with a 15 is the most affordable in this provide a seamless Work From 13-inches 2K Huawei full-view range, but still matches in terms Home (WFH) and Learn From display and weighs approximately of performance. The 15.6-inches Home (LFH) experience. WFH and 1.3 kg. Its Intel version features a MateBook D 15 features an AMD LFH have been embraced by many 10th generation Intel® Core™ i5 – Ryzen 53500U processor, 8 GB and continue to be the norm in 10210U processor, 16 GB LPDDR3 DDR4 RAM, Radeon™ Vega 8 this day and age. Many companies RAM, NVIDIA ®GeForce® Graphics, and 256 GB PCIe SSD are shifting to a WFH model and MX250 graphics, and 512 GB and 1TB HDD storage-wise. If students are being encouraged to PCIe SSD. The laptop is powered affordability and specifications #LightItPink: adopt to LFH. by a 41.7 Wh battery that provides are valued more than price, the “Huawei’s range of laptops and up to 11.6 hours local 1080p Matebook is an ideal solution tablets, coupled with the innovative video playback, which means that for students who need access to The Lotus Tower lights up in pink for features such as multi-screen users now don’t need to plug their uninterrupted learning. collaboration, prove to be very devices as often and they can work The latest entry to Huawei’s breast cancer awareness month useful for users who are looking from anywhere, anytime without laptop portfolio is the Huawei for WFH solutions. The gamut of worrying about battery drain. MateBook X Pro – the flagship BY DIMITHRI WIJESINGHE encourage annual mammograms devices ensures that even students The AMD version of the in the MateBook series. It is and that getting repeated can find an affordable device to Huawei MateBook 13 features an light weight at 1.3kg, comes in a On Monday (26), one of mammograms is not advisable continue their studies from home. AMD Ryzen™5 3500U processor, 13.9-inches 3K Huawei full-view Colombo’s most notable to your health as it carries a From a highly efficient laptop 16 GB DDR4 RAM, Radeon™ display with multi-touch. Ideal for building structures – cancer risk as well. She said that range to an all-inclusive tablet Vega 8 Graphics, and 512 GB PCIe video tasks, the Huawei MateBook what they do encourage is for the Lotus Tower – was series, Huawei owns some of the SSD – all of which are ideal for X Pro features a 16 GB LPDDR3 women over the age of 55 to get most feature-packed devices to office tasks and studies. Whether RAM, NVIDIA® GeForce® illuminated in the colour mammograms, and that too every pink as part of the month- have launched this year, especially a person is searching for the right MX250 graphics, and 1 TB NVMe two to three years. showcasing its prowess in the balance to work from home or a PCIe SSD storage. Powered by long campaign courtesy of Dr. Jayasuriya Dissanayake laptop segment,” said Huawei student is in search of a laptop to a 55 Wh battery, it provides up the Indira Cancer Trust in said: “You cannot know what is Devices, Sri Lanka Country Head continue studies from home, the to 13 hours of video playback raising awareness on breast abnormal without knowing what Peter Liu. MateBook 13 matches the need. In which is essential in today’s busy cancer. is normal and so you must first The Huawei MateBook 13 fact, Huawei’s portfolio consists of work schedules, including video The Lotus Tower’s pink get to know your body; carry out is in both Intel and AMD chip several other laptops that deliver a conferencing. lighting is part of the Global your self-assessment under the Landmark Illumination Campaign same conditions every month,” initiated in 2000, which sees she said, advising that if you are monuments in over 140 countries menstruating, the ideal time to do it is seven days after your period. ‘Rani Sandalwood’ gifts loyal illuminated in pink light, to promote global awareness She stated that there are clear and detailed guidelines available via of breast cancer, specifically We spoke to Indira Cancer to remind everyone of the the Indira Cancer Trust. consumers gold necklaces and Trust Chairperson and Trustee Dr. She said that around 4,000 importance of early detection of Lanka Jayasuriya Dissanayake, breast cancer and being proactive women are diagnosed with breast who shared their vision in cancer in Sri Lanka every year, household items worth Rs. 1 m about your health. carrying out these activities Swadeshi Industrial Works Launched in 1941, the Rani In addition to this particular and with breast cancer being an throughout the month of October. PLC launched yet another exciting brand has the unique distinction event, the Indira Cancer Trust illness that can be 100% cured if She stated that as the month of promotion for the loyal consumers of having an unbroken leadership had a number of other activities detected early, these numbers can October is dedicated to raising of Rani Sandalwood soap with position in the sandalwood beauty which they carried out from the be seriously curtailed to simply awareness about breast cancer and weekly offers including an attractive care segment since its launch and beginning of October. One such diagnoses. it is a global initiative, they wish 22-carat gold necklace and many has gained wide acceptance in event was on 2 October where the Dr. Jayasuriya Dissanayake to carry forward this work in Sri more valuable gifts items. several overseas markets. women of the Colombo Municipal said that their hope is to reduce Lanka. Consumers who post two The Swadeshi Industrial Council (CMC) donned pink the number of people walking She said that historically the empty cartons of any Rani Works was the first Sri Lankan sarees with the purpose of rising through their doors requiring colour pink and the pink ribbon Sandalwood soap with their names, sandalwood-based beauty soap in company to manufacture herbal awareness and the CMC building their help; they wish to reduce the has been significant in the breast addresses, and telephone numbers the market.” a spokesperson for soap in Sri Lanka. The company’s was lit up in pink. number of people suffering from cancer awareness movement, being breast cancer in Sri Lanka. to “Rani Sadun Wasana Warama”, Swadeshi Industries said. innovative and research-based utilised to signify the importance of P.O. Box 04, Kandana, are eligible “Sandalwood, the main developments has resulted raising awareness through Touch, to win ingredient of Rani Sandalwood in many firsts in the industry Look, Check (TLC) campaigns Six 22-carat gold necklaces soap, is known for its purifying including the first sandalwood for early detection and also in worth Rs. 100,000, six washing and cleansing attributes. It helps beauty soap, first herbal beauty celebrating survivors and victims of machines, six microwave ovens, to smoothen and soften the skin, soap, and first herbal baby care the illness. six media pads, six gas cookers, six leaving it healthy, radiant, and range. Among the pioneer brands She shared that there are a rice cookers, and 84 Rani gift packs odour free. This promotion is also of Swadeshi are Khomba Herbal, number of myths surrounding will be offered over a period of six intended to create better awareness Rani Sandalwood, Khomba breast cancer and getting tested weeks, the company announced. of these aspects,” the spokesperson Baby, Little Princess, Perlwite, as well, adding that with regards The promotion gets underway further added. Lak Bar, Safeplus, Lady, Black to testing what they encourage is from 1 November to 15 December Rani Sandalwood has been Eagle Perfume, and the Swadeshi their primary campaign – TLC, 2020 and winners will be chosen always associated with truly Shower Gel range. which encourages all women at weekly raffle draws. Rani beautiful women who know the Swadeshi Industrial Works above the age of 20 to carry out Sandalwood consumers can visit special benefits and the healing PLC is an ISO 9001: 2015 certified a monthly self-examination to and like the Rani Sandalwood properties of sandalwood. They company and uses only the best touch, look, and check the breast; Facebook page for further always trust Rani as having best mix of herbs, and all ingredients if one finds anything out of the information and updates. quality and original sandalwood are extensively researched and the norm, they are to reach out to the “This promotion is intended soap, which has been in the market products are fully tested to ensure nearest healthcare professional to reward our loyal consumer base for over 80 years. Rani Sandalwood quality. All Swadeshi products are and proceed from there. who consider Rani Sandalwood is renowned as the “Queen of 100% vegetarian, not tested on She said that they do not soap the most trusted and purest Beauty Soaps”. animals, and are cruelty free. the morning 5 Wednesday, October 28, 2020 sports KXIP enter fourth spot Ricci Bitti, ASOIF Head again SL vs. SA Tests finalised Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) thrashed Kolkata Knight Riders Francesco Ricci Bitti is set to be re-elected Now this will perhaps be the only remaining int’l assignment (KKR) by eight yesterday (27) in match no. 46 of the for a third and final term as President of the for Sri Lanka cricketers in this pandemic-struck 2020. They Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020. KXIP will now replace Association of Summer Olympic Int'l Federations will play two Tests (from 26-30 Dec. at Centurion and 3-7 Jan. KKR at the fourth spot in the IPL points table. Mumbai (ASOIF) after being confirmed as the sole at Johannesburg) in South Africa, it was confirmed yesterday Indians (14 points), Royal Challengers Bangalore (14), and candidate for the position. The ASOIF general (27). Lankans will play the Boxing Day (26 Dec.) Test at Delhi Capitals (14) share the first, second, and third spots assembly is scheduled to take place virtually on Super Sport Park. The Wanderers Stadium will host the New with marginal differences in their net run rates in this 9 November. The election is the main item on the Year’s first Test in South Africa, considered to be their 56-game league phase. The play-offs begin on 5 November. agenda for the meeting. calendar’s most iconic fixture, for the first time after 1914.

LPL FACES ANOTHER BLOW LPL schedule changed

Sri Lanka Cricket schedule included the Galle in the opening match (SLC), as the organisers following note by SLC: of the tournament on 21 of the Lanka Premier “Kindly note that matches November, according to League (LPL), yesterday to be played on 21, 22, the schedule issued last Russell, du (27) revised its tournament and 23 November and 9 Thursday. That was at the schedule. December are the ones Mahinda Rajapaksa Int'l It first officially revised.” Stadium in Hambantota. announced the 14-match- There are 23 matches in Now, according to the day schedule last the LPL including the two revised schedule, Colombo Thursday, 22 October. semi-finals and the final. is to meet Dambulla in the Plessis, and 3 Yesterday’s revised Colombo was to meet first match. more withdraw The Lanka Premier League (LPL) is in trouble once again. After multiple postponements and last weeks’ finalisation of the Player Draft, now many big names have withdrawn from the beleaguered league, international media revealed yesterday (27). “LPL 2020 draft took place last week. The organisers of the league flashed names of Andre Russell, Faf du Plessis, David Miller, (and) Dawid Malan. These players were picked by the franchises as well. But within five days of the said announcement, now many players have pulled out of the event,” wrote Kunal Dhyani yesterday on India- based sports website Inside Sport, under the headline “LPL draft falls flat; Russell, Du Absence of West Indian T20 star Andre Russell will be a huge blow for LPL. Here, Russell is seen Plessis and three other big players pull out”. warming up before an IPL match between Royal Challengers Bangalore vs. Kolkata Knight Riders in SA vs. England series finalised Sharjah in UAE on 12 October PHOTO© BCCI Russell, Du Plessis, and Miller have is presently involved in the Indian Premier Now franchises have decided themselves to pull out from the League (IPL) – said. to replace them event, media confirmed. ESPN Cricinfo opined: “Although it was SLC has confirmed the negative The latest LPL schedule According to those reports, South African suspected that the players from South Africa development in an interview to ESPN T20 “stars” Du Plessis and Miller and and England would withdraw once England’s Cricinfo. “The franchises, that had these England batsman Malan have become tour of South Africa was confirmed, Russell’s players, will have to negotiate with other Colombo had three of them are still substantial logistical hurdles to unavailable because of the now-finalised exit is more of a surprise. players to take their place,” LPL Director “While these withdrawals are a surmount before the tournament can get limited-overs series between South Africa “He has not played for the Kolkata Knight Ravin Wickramaratne has told the website. significant blow to the tournament, they off the ground. A major sticking point and England, set to begin on 27 November in Riders since the game against the Sunrisers India’s Manvinder Bisla is the fifth are not a death knell just yet. The hardest remains the quarantine –Sri Lanka’s health South Africa under biosecurity environment. Hyderabad on 18 October owing to a knee player to exit the LPL. He is not believed hit franchise is the Colombo Kings, who ministry has insisted it must be 14 days of injury but hasn’t yet pulled out of the IPL to have provided a reason, though. had all three of Russell, du Plessis, and confinement in a hotel room, which some Russell exit is a surprise! entirely either. No update has been given The LPL is scheduled to start on 21 Bisla on their roster. The Jaffna Stallions players have expressed dissatisfaction West Indian T20 stalwart Russell, on his further involvement in the ongoing November and go on till 13 December had Malan,” remembered Inside Sport with,” the said report also stressed. meanwhile, has pulled out due to injury, tournament, although Wickramaratne cited in Hambantota and . 14 December quoting Cricinfo. “SLC is still confident that tournament some reports emerging from the United injury as the cause of his withdrawal from the has been allocated as a reserve day for the “With less than four weeks to go until will go ahead,” reports, though, further Arab Emirates (UAE) – where the player LPL.” final. the scheduled start of the LPL, there added.

SPORTS WATCH How Covid-19 affects semi-professional by Dinith Pathi sportspersons in private sector Whilst this article is being written, Sri Lanka is in the midst of another z There were days when mercantile players had to commit themselves to further their professional qualifications wave of coronavirus with patients sprouting up from most parts of the Rise in sports-related their companies while also playing Silver lining country. The optimism the country employment cricket for them. At present, with all the companies felt in the recent past about having Most of them are on expendable The writer recently talked on this feeling the crunch of the pandemic, eradicated this infectious disease to contracts with their work being open issue with Mr. Wijesuriya, former they naturally seek to cut costs. a very large degree is now a very to be terminated on a very short Sri Lanka Test cricketer who later Then, a first group of people in the distant memory. notice. They would have not exactly became CEO of what was then firing line will be these “sporting With this latest situation still been “employed” by the companies. named P&A Insurance, who is a very employees”. This is an extremely sad developing, the livelihoods and the This means they would not be a successful cricket coach now. He had situation. But it is also unavoidable general lifestyles of almost everyone part of the production team of those been employed at Mercantile Credit too in the present circumstances. has been affected. Some have had companies. and Union Assurance for almost 20 But in the disastrous predicament to make unprecedented changes to In recent history, most companies years prior to being employed by pertaining to those “sporting their life. That is to be able to survive started utilising sports, particularly P&A. employees”, there is also a “silver themselves. There are many who cricket, as part of their advertising lining”. SL’s legendary cricketers. From left: , Roy Dias, and Arjuna have already lost their jobs. Many strategy. That is as a result of the Not mere ‘playing Now these young sportsmen Ranatunga unveiling their portraits at the Mercantile Cricket Association (MCA) HQ employees’ others have undergone severe pay popularity of sports and the massive in Colombo at a ceremony held in 2018 PHOTO© DAILY NEWS need to get themselves adequately cuts. media attention they had garnered in Wijesuriya can still recall time qualified in their chosen the island. just to play cricket and bring credit to smarter ones would have done so. when leading cricketers in the professional field. They are now Employed only for playing their firms. A couple decades ago, the same country had been employed in the compelled to improve their personal Here, we are focussing mainly on Due to large publicity practice was there in the Colombo- same company where he worked. development. the sports persons who are employed As a result, most companies do this Not keen on professional centred corporate sector to employ But most importantly, they were not in the mercantile sector. Those sports by employing sports persons solely qualification “sports-only” employees, but with a just “playing employees” then. Never neglect studies persons who have lost their jobs to represent them in various annual The downside of this phenomenon telling difference. The present writer “We would get trained when we The present dark period can already could be the ones who have competitions. Their strategy is to is that most of these young remembers pretty well watching joined the company and if the players be a warning for the youngsters been hit the hardest. They are unable achieve success in sports, especially sportsmen or women tend to neglect a mercantile “A” division cricket were engaged in sales, they would who are still doing sports at their to be employed in any other field in extremely popular sports like their personal as well as career final between Union Assurance and, report for work on time and would schools. They should engage in too. Even if they do, they will have cricket. That is deemed as garnering development. The reason is that they another leading firm, Singer, as I can then go out and engage themselves their respective sports with the to undergo a totally new professional attention and free publicity for their already have a paying job. Most recall. in sales until afternoon. The players utmost dedication, discipline, and training. company. such sportsmen in fact had very would then be released from their commitment. Falling into this precariously Prior to the spread of the lucrative contracts. Simply for the Talking to Roger Wijesuriya duties around 3 p.m. for their daily At the same time, they should placed category are the semi- pandemic, this was understandably job assurance that they had before The Ranatunge brothers, Arjuna practices. also make sure they should NOT professional sportsmen who are a successful corporate strategy. the pandemic, such “sports-only” and Dhammika, played for the two “This way the companies as well neglect their studies. Even ‘after’ the employed by various companies Mercantile sport was thriving due to employees of the private sector did opposing firms. The difference – the players gained immensely and pandemic that could be an essential for the sole purpose of taking part the involvement of cricketers. There not make any attempt to have an when the situation is compared to it was a win-win situation for both future investment for them in their in sports activities representing are a number of “employees” in extra educational qualifications in today – is that they were an integral parties,” Wijesuriya pointed out quite career development prospects – other respective companies. those companies whose job was to their field of employment. Only the part of the professional layout of rightly. than their sports – in years to come. the morning 6 Wednesday, October 28, 2020 education Leading the way for a truthful ‘new normal’ in Sri Lanka’s education z Veritas Academia achieves a 100% UoL LLB pass rate The “new normal” created due to Covid-19 has forced society to re-evaluate how it produces knowledge and teaches its youth. This, in turn, has strained existing teaching patterns and revamped how existing bodies of knowledge function. With a mission to cater meaningful, high-quality, and personalised e-learning solutions for students, Veritas Academia introduced educational facilities Veritas Academia Co-founders Hiruni Jayasinghe (LLB [Hons.] [London], Attorney-at-Law Nisal Kohona (LLB [Hons.] [London]), and Sajana Sooriyaarachchi (LLB [Hons.] [London]) and Director Attorney-at-Law Nikitha Senaratne (LLB [Hons.] [London], LLM [Colombo], Dip. in Jap. Lang. [JLEASL], Certified Professional Trainer [Swinburne]) virtually in Sri Lanka. Established in 2018, Veritas Academia offers classes unfortunate that we were expected to know modules of the degree programme. for a diverse range of programmes everything on our own.” The latest directors to come onboard ranging from upper secondary The availability of e-learning facilities were Nikitha Senaratne; the most senior Testimonials proved to be a significant convenience for and experienced lecturer on the Board of to tertiary education, at the Hansi Nugawela convenience of your fingertips. students during the abrupt lockdowns due Directors, who oversees external relations of Veritas Academia will assist you to get to the Easter Sunday attacks in 2019 and and contributed tremendously to the pace I joined Veritas Academia as a final through your exams. In the recently concluded University of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Since the of development of the institute, and Gihan year student with three referred papers. I London (UoL) Bachelor of Laws (LLB) services of Veritas Academia were not limited Fernando; an accomplished professional in didn’t even know if I should continue with Tharaka Madushi May/June examinations, Veritas Academia to one geographical area, it was geared to the IT field, who develops and manages the my course. However, the tutors, while At the time I met the teachers from successfully achieved a 100% pass rate, with continue providing its services in a sustained, digital infrastructure of the institute. delivering the relevant subject matter Veritas Academia, I was a private all LLB students progressing to their next prompt, and uninterrupted manner, keeping The name Veritas Academia and its logo and training required for the exam, also candidate for the final year in LLB of phase of education seamlessly due to the the students composed and on track, finishing emulate a very profound meaning. The Latin build up the confidence one needs to face the University of London and an internal extra classes provided by the institute and the all modules on time. term Veritas Academia translates to “truth and get through the exam, making that student at the Sri Lanka Law College motivation rendered by the teachers. Providing high-quality educational in academics”, signifying the objective of “impossible to get through” mindset a and so it was a real challenge to find Co-founded by Hiruni Jayasinghe, Nisal facilities was mostly possible due to the the institute to profess truthful knowledge misconception. time to attend classes. On top of that, it Kohona, and Sajana Sooriyaarachchi, unique LMS Veritas Academia introduced, in academic discourse, whereas the logo was hard for me to find reliable teachers Veritas Academia understands the concerns which allows the tutor and the student to symbolises an owl holding a quilt. In Nimantha Chandrasena who would be flexible with my schedule of learning during these difficult times and interact remotely. Veritas Academia is the ancient Greece, the owl was a symbol of I joined Veritas Academia during my and who would teach me in the fast therefore, they address these academic first non-degree awarding body in Sri Lanka higher wisdom and was the representation final year of LLB to study Property Law track. Especially for subjects like Public challenges in pursuit of excellence. Veritas to create a LMS. The LMS allows tutors to for Athena, the Goddess of Wisdom, War, and Public International Law. I got to International Law and European Union Academia aims to be the regional hub upload their study material such as lecture and Strategy, before the Greeks gave their know about this academy two months Law, there weren’t many reliable classes for e-learning services. Speaking of her notes, answer plans, and lecture videos, pantheon human forms. According to before the exam and by that time I was lost at the time. However, I was lucky to experiences as a student, Veritas Academia which can be accessed by the students at mythology, an owl sat on Athena’s blindside, and helpless in both subjects. Even though find the teachers of Veritas Academia, Co-founder Hiruni Jayasinghe stated: “I their convenience. The LMS further allows so that she could see the whole truth. it was two months before the exam, my Miss Hiruni Jayasinghe for Public always felt that I could do better, if I had students who do not participate in virtual At present, the portfolio of Veritas beloved tutors, Nisal Kohona and Hiruni International Law and Mr. Nisal Kohona more effective resources. This knowledge classrooms to access these materials for a Academia has diversified and encompasses Jayasinghe never said no to me. They for European Union Law. They were inspired me to help others in the same nominal fee. Furthermore, students have the learnings solutions for Edexcel/Cambridge took the responsibility and did their part really friendly and supportive. With their position.” luxury of many other facilities such as having International Advanced Subsidiary (A/S) very well. Their teaching was competent help I was able to obtain 62 marks for For the first time in Sri Lanka, an their practice answers graded, attempting and Advanced Level (A/L) examinations, and up to the mark. Sometimes they did Public International Law and 63 marks educational institution is successfully online mock exams, etc. BSc programmes in business management not limit the class hours to the scheduled for European Union Law with a series catering to both local and foreign students This modern and state-of-the-art system and economics, LLB programmes, Sri time because all they wanted is to cover of fast-track classes. I really appreciate via virtual classrooms and a unique online of delivering education is undoubtedly the Lanka Law College attorneys-at-law the syllabus and do past paper questions, their support and effort towards my Learning Management System (LMS), new normal method of providing a quality examinations, assignment coaching, and which is important to do my exams well. achievements and I believe Veritas providing the best e-learning experience education which also triumphs in providing a consultations for higher studies, where the If you’re struggling to complete your LLB Academia is an institution providing in 2020. After years of adopting traditional seamless and authentic learning experience. institute will map out a student’s academic degree, I assure that the qualified tutors good services in teaching. methods of face-to-face teaching, Veritas “I put in so much effort on my own,” stated path to suit their passion and career goals. In Academia initiated its e-teaching facility in Co-founder Sajana Sooriyaarachchi, adding: the case of a law student, the institute offers 2018 to render its services to foreign students “I struggled a lot to be perfect; it would have guidance during all stages from the A/S teaching is up to standard and the study to any student individually, based on demanding the expertise of its tutors as well been a crime not to pass well!” The initiation level up to the point of being called to the material is up to date. The handpicked their academic standards. Owing to this as local students from across Sri Lanka who of Veritas Academia was owing to the bar as an attorney. Further, Veritas Academia faculty of Veritas Academia consists outstanding lecture panel, the institute has were unable to attend physical classes. The obstacles, hardships, and difficulties such as has entered into strategic partnerships of qualified, driven, and experienced been able to produce phenomenal results online teaching facilities have additionally inadequate resources and dearth of guidance with international schools and foreign individuals who adopt a combination over the years. been the preferred mode of study by students the three founding members personally universities. of traditional and modern teaching For further information, contact Veritas who are reluctant to travel closer for exams. faced while pursuing their LLB degrees. Since the landscape of higher education methods to provide a bespoke learning Academia on 0711 812 269, email them Co-founder Nisal Kohona noted: “I wish we Eventually, the co-founders decided to is unceasingly dynamic, as a predominantly experience, focusing on promoting critical at [email protected], or had more personalised guidance to assist us expand and partnered with more like-minded online-based teaching institute, Veritas thinking, discussing issues, evaluating simply visit their site www.veritasofficial. navigate academic challenges smoothly. It is tutors to provide complete coverage of all the Academia ensures that the quality of topics, providing feedback, and catering com.

High5 Consultancy took flight in navigating finances, and emotional 2005 as an HR (human resources) wellbeing. The series attracted over and management consulting 12,000 participants from over 21 company, particularly to address Training and development countries, making it Sri Lanka’s the dire need for “customised HR biggest webinar series. Showcasing solutions”. In a day and age where 35 subject matter experts from Sri the market was inundated with off- Lanka and overseas, it also featured the-shelf or cookie-cutter model the likes of Dave Ulrich – the father solutions for HR, High5 worked with a definitive difference of modern HR and the inimitable with organisations to develop their “HR ecosystem”, rather than resort High5 retained the HR cultures” is really tough. Having provide quantifiable evidence speakers Nigel Risner from the own organisational “ecosystem”. to a best-practice implementation, consultancy and research focus, been a part of the journey and on how behaviour directs UK and Gordon Tredgold from In installing this ecosystem, which has not proven to be whereas Luminary Learning facilitating for a conglomerate in organisational results. Belgium. A follow-on series was High5 was charged with driving sustainable Solutions expanded into a full- their bid to augment functions, Luminary Learning Solutions formulated owing to the popular change initiatives. In doing so, it Upskilling the staff of the fledged training arm, catering to ensuring that everyone subscribed has quietly gained accolades over response: A 17-hour back-to-back was soon realised that the brunt of organisation to face the challenges an array of training needs, from to same basic principles, a period of 15 years of being in webinar featuring 18 amazing this drive for change rested upon of the future, not just for the day! bespoke training requirements, competencies while instilling a the training space, successfully speakers and guests from nine the middle management tiers, who Because they understand that a leadership programmes, ROI- culture; over 2,000 staff underwent conducting programmes in 15 countries around the world. needed to be skilled and fortified lack in skill and competency of the based training, team-building the executive development countries, training over 150,000 Luminary has launched a three- for this change to materialise. This workforce means the organisation programmes, online learning, bite- programme. Success indicators participants with 25 exclusive month learning intervention that need led to the second service as a whole will not function at it’s sized learning, one-off training, were: 80% staff who underwent trainers, and being pioneers of self- began on 20 June under the banner that High5 provided which was ideal personal coaching, and business training were promoted within learning since as early as 2007. “Saturdays are for Learning with leadership training, which soon Finally, the commitment to simulations; in brief, providing 12-18 months of completing the With the onset of the pandemic, Luminary”, with Luminary offering grew to be their specialty in driving ensuring that the High5 team is end-to-end learning solutions, programme, including three current organisations were quick to cut up to 50 hours of learning per objectives for growth. always at the cutting edge of HR offering a bigger and better directors from within the fold! back on expenses, including individual at a cost of less than a The research arm came into and development – in thought and portfolio. As a result, Luminary Luminary is striving hard to budgets for training and dollar. Phase Three started from being, again owing to the necessity skill, and will continuously initiate Learning Solutions now offers the change the perspective of training, development. As an organisation August 2020, and saw highly of measuring the progress and innovation in that space expertise of 25 diverse, exclusive to view it as an investment and not providing training and development technical skills being taught. The impact made by this change trainers who are experts in the a cost. With measurable results of interventions, with quick webinars continuing till December management process; and soon a The formation of Luminary subject matter of their preferred at least twice the returns on ROI conferencing and formulations, will ensure there is a continuous formula was arrived at to measure Learning Solutions fields, who are employed, with their specialised leadership it was established that “learning” development drive at a fraction of engagement and employee While High5 continued with its qualified, tenured, and prevalent. programmes that drive innovation, could continue “online”, advising the cost of traditional training. satisfaction. Tools were built to trademark leadership development Clients now have new and current subscribed to by the likes of MAS, all organisations and the corporate Luminary Learning prides itself assess the robustness of the HR programme firmly pegged to return programmes available to them, Hirdaramani, Mobitel, to name a community on how best to invest on generating its own content system and its impact on the on investment (ROI), the team was covering the entire training needs few, with proven results, training downtime, or non-productive on an ongoing basis. This is employee population and the inundated with constant requests analysis of the company, thereby now is an “investment” that can time in up-skilling their staff – reflected in all the up-to-date failures or success of the key for other soft skills training, which taking the hassle out of the earn its returns. absolutely free. training topics and programmes initiatives implemented. were gently deflected. However, logistics of training with just “one Finally, having implemented A full series of learning as well as the additional learning High5 based their objectives with time it was obvious that these touchpoint”. training, how do organisations interventions which incorporated content generated in the form of on the services they offered their were the “real” needs clients had Luminary Learning Solutions observe and plot behavioural training and learning, was launched newsletters and e-books which clients. within the organisation. Yet again understands and helps ease some change? Luminary has specially with 12 webinars over 12 days, on are freely accessible to everyone, The genuine passion to support answering the call of “need”, in of the daunting and poignant issues formulated tools to track 12 critical aspects of navigating consistent to Luminary’s claim: the organisation to grow by 2017, Luminary Learning Solutions currently faced by organisations. performance of an organisation a “lockdown” situation. Topics “We do not train, we facilitate installing a tried-and-true, authentic was incorporated. One being the fact that “changing and its leadership team to literally ranged from work from home to learning!”