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Women in Tech Sri Lanka, in collaboration with Teens in AI, brings the fourth annual International Women’s Day Global Techathon to the Sri Lankan community. This initiative, led locally by Women in Tech Sri Lanka, aims to inspire teens to explore future pathways in technology and Artificial Intelligence through collaborative, hands-on learning experiences.
Running from February to April 2024, the campaign aligns with a shared mission alongside valued partners to leverage technology in building a more equitable world – one where every young person has the opportunity to unlock their full potential, drive innovation, and create positive societal impact.
In celebration of International Women’s Day, Women in Tech Sri Lanka leads the local execution of the annual, globally distributed Teens in AI Global Techathon, empowering Sri Lankan teens aged 12 to 18 to collaboratively address real-world challenges using AI and Data Science for social good. This hackathon-style programme is delivered as a virtual hybrid experience, with challenges aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), encouraging purpose-driven innovation among the next generation of tech leaders.
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On November 13, 2026, the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society (SLRCS) officially launched RESPONSE, a new electronic fundraising initiative designed to make charitable giving more accessible and part of everyday life through digital payment technology.
Unveiled at Cinnamon Grand Colombo – the campaign’s hospitality partner – under the patronage of SLRCS Senior Vice President Jagath Abeysinghe, the project operates under the core slogans “TAP TO RESPOND” and “Every Need Deserves a Response.”
To bridge the gap between digital convenience and humanitarian action, SLRCS partnered with Mastercard and Payable. By integrating electronic Tap & Pay mechanisms, RESPONSE empowers both individuals and organisations to effortlessly donate toward community support projects. Shashi Madanayake, Chair of the RESPONSE Campaign Committee and Director of Account Management at Mastercard Sri Lanka, delivered the keynote address, highlighting how private-sector collaboration can expand public participation in charitable giving.
To broaden its reach and foster a culture of shared social responsibility, the campaign also introduced two key figures. Popular media personality Danu Innasithamby was officially appointed as the project’s Brand Ambassador, focusing on engaging audiences across generations – especially youth – to promote empathy, kindness, and active community support. Alongside him, SLRCS unveiled RAY, a friendly mascot designed to give the campaign an approachable identity. Featuring a heart-shaped body representing compassion and colourful arms symbolising unity and diversity, RAY embodies the message that even small acts of kindness create meaningful change.
With roots dating back to 1936 and incorporated by Royal Charter in 1951, the SLRCS operates as an independent humanitarian organisation and an autonomous auxiliary to Sri Lankan public authorities. Guided by the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement’s seven Fundamental Principles – Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity, and Universality – SLRCS leverages its nationwide network of branches and volunteers to alleviate suffering and build community resilience.
Through RESPONSE, the organisation invites the public and corporate sector alike to turn simple digital transactions into lasting humanitarian impact.
Former Minister Kanchana Wijesekera has formally ruled out any return to active politics, stating in a reflective social media post that he has permanently moved on to a full-time career in the corporate sector.
Writing on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on November 15, Wijesekera marked two personal milestones: the 84th birth anniversary of his late father – the first since his passing – and the second anniversary of the 2024 Parliamentary Elections, in which he was defeated.
Reflecting on his exit from public life a month after that election, the former Power and Energy Minister stated that what began 23 months ago as a part-time corporate engagement has now evolved into a full-time commitment that he finds deeply fulfilling.
“I have moved on from politics, and I have no intention or interest in returning to political life or political activity,” Wijesekera wrote, adding that he is content with his current path. He noted that stepping away from the political arena has afforded him greater privacy, opportunities to travel, a renewed focus on health and fitness, and quality time with his family, alongside exposure to diverse industries and trades.
Expressing gratitude for the trust placed in him – by the then leaderships during his tenure – he remarked that he remains proud of his contributions to public life.
The announcement drew immediate reactions from supporters and observers online, many of whom had hoped for his eventual return to the political fold.
Responding to the post, prominent media personality and corporate figure Pradeep Amirthanayagam praised Wijesekera’s capabilities, commenting, “People of your courage and ability are a rarity. I know that you will succeed in whatever you choose to do.”
Meanwhile, another follower, posting under the name Christian JR, urged the former minister to reconsider his stance in the future, attributing his 2024 electoral defeat to what the commenter described as “poor political literacy” rather than any shortcoming on Wijesekera’s part.
Despite the calls from well-wishers, Wijesekera’s statement serves as a definitive closing of the door on his political career, signaling his focus on private-sector endeavors going forward.
In a market where economic volatility has made business expansion a high-stakes gamble, one of Sri Lanka’s well-known restaurant brands is betting on growth.
Chinese Dragon Café (CDC), a name synonymous with Chinese cuisine in Sri Lanka since 1942, has opened its 15th global outlet – and 14th in the country – in Kandy, signaling confidence in a market that has tested even the most established players.
The new restaurant, located near Lighthouse Church on Piachaud Garden, positions the brand in one of Sri Lanka’s most dynamic commercial and tourism hubs. For CDC, the move is less about adding square footage and more about strategic reach: tapping into Kandy’s mix of local residents, business travelers, and international visitors.
The story of Chinese Dragon Café began in 1942, when a Chinese couple opened a small neighborhood restaurant in Bambalapitiya. Over eight decades, that single outlet grew into a recognised brand with locations spanning Bambalapitiya, Mount Lavinia, Nugegoda, Rajagiriya, Jaffna, Galle, and Negombo – and in 2021, the brand crossed borders with its first overseas outlet in Dubai.
The Kandy opening extends that trajectory. “Kandy is a city with a distinctive identity, bringing together a rich cultural heritage, a thriving tourism sector, business activity and a diverse community,” said Chief Operating Officer, Lahiruwan Lakmal. “We see this expansion as an important opportunity to reach new customers.”
The new outlet reflects CDC’s dual strategy: preserve the familiar while evolving with customer expectations.
The restaurant features private dining rooms and a glasshouse seating area with scenic views – amenities designed for families, corporate meetings, and special occasions. Signature dishes like Hot Butter Cuttlefish and Seafood Fried Rice served in a Banana Leaf anchor a menu that has cultivated generational loyalty.
CDC’s expansion comes at a time when many businesses in Sri Lanka are retrenching rather than growing. The company’s willingness to invest in a new location – and its ability to maintain food quality and service standards across 15 outlets – offers a case study in how established brands can navigate economic uncertainty: by choosing strategic locations, diversifying revenue streams, and staying true to a core product.
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