The Organisation of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka (OPA) successfully hosted its 38th Annual Conference and the prestigious 4th National Apex Awards on the 19 th and 20 th of August 2025, at the Cinnamon Life, Colombo. 

The event commenced with a distinguished Inaugural Ceremony, graced by the Chief Guest, Hon. (Dr.) Jagath Wickramaratne, Speaker of the Parliament of Sri Lanka, and attended by leading figures from the professional sector.

The recommendations and insights generated during the sessions will provide a valuable foundation for the OPA to develop policy papers and continue its dialogue with the government, ensuring that the outcomes of the conference lead to sustained and practical impact.

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

In his Welcome Address, Mr. Sujeewa Lal Dahanayake, President of the OPA, reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to national development through professional collaboration and active engagement with the government. He highlighted the special significance of the Annual Conference, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the OPA, marking five decades of multidisciplinary professional unity and collective effort towards national advancement.

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

In his remarks, the Chief Guest, Hon. (Dr.) Jagath Wickramaratne, emphasized the vital role of professionals in nation-building, fostering innovation, and strengthening Sri Lanka’s transformation into a knowledge-based economy.

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

The evening also featured an impactful Keynote Address by Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, Secretary to the Treasury and the Ministry of Finance, Planning & Economic Development, who underscored the importance of professionals in supporting the government’s efforts to advance national development.

The night concluded with dinner and fellowship, providing professionals from diverse disciplines with the opportunity to connect and network, while enjoying captivating performances by renowned singer Umariya Sinhawansa.

The following day was dedicated to the Technical Sessions, which brought together experts, policymakers, and professionals to deliberate on key areas critical to Sri Lanka’s progress.