Business
Dialog Announces Strategic Partners for Groundbreaking National Innovation Challenge
Dialog Axiata PLC, Sri Lanka’s premier connectivity provider, proudly announced its esteemed partners of the Dialog Innovation Challenge, an initiative towards developing scalable, innovative digital solutions that can spearhead nation-wide digital transformation.
The recent partner induction marks a significant milestone in this national endeavor, fostering collaboration across various sectors. The Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA) assumes the role of National Technology Partner, anchoring the challenge’s technological foundation. Joining forces as Technology Ecosystem Partners are The Institution of Engineers, Sri Lanka (IESL), The Sri Lanka Inventors Commission (SLIC), and The National Innovation Agency (NIA). As Business Knowledge Partners, the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC), Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM), and Digital Marketing Association of Sri Lanka (DMASL) bring unparalleled industry insight to the initiative.
Speaking on the partnership, Prof. Malik Ranasinghe, Chairman of The Information and Communication Technology Agency said, “On behalf of ICTA, we’re delighted to partner with Dialog in the Innovation Challenge. Whether in the private or public sector, we believe in collaboration for positive outcomes. The National Fuel Pass initiative exemplifies our successful partnership with Dialog in the past. We wish Dialog success in reaching and engaging a large number of Sri Lankans in this national endeavour. ICTA is committed to supporting Dialog and the national community to ensure the success of this initiative”.
Commenting, Supun Weerasinghe, Group Chief Executive of Dialog Axiata PLC said, “We are thrilled to embark on this transformative journey with our esteemed partners for the National Dialog Innovation Challenge. In collaboration with our partners, we are set to drive digital innovation across Sri Lanka. This strategic partnership is a testament to our commitment to shaping the nation’s digital future. Together, we invite all Sri Lankans to join us in this pioneering initiative, as we harness the power of technology to create positive change for individuals, businesses, and communities nationwide”.
The Dialog Innovation Challenge invites all Sri Lankans to contribute to the country’s digital future. Individuals and teams are encouraged to submit innovative solutions leveraging technologies like AI, machine learning, IoT, blockchain, and more. With a generous prize pool of Rs. 5 million and opportunity for selected winners to pitch for a part of the 500Mn DIF (Dialog Innovation Foundry) investment fund, mentorship, and access to Dialog’s innovation ecosystem, participants have a unique opportunity to propel their ideas forward.
Business
AHK Sri Lanka champions first-ever Sri Lankan delegation at Drupa 2024
The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) proudly facilitated the first-ever Sri Lankan delegation’s participation at Drupa 2024, the world’s largest trade fair for the printing industry and technology. Held after an eight-year hiatus, Drupa 2024 was a landmark event, marking significant advancements and opportunities in the global printing industry.
AHK Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in organising and supporting the delegation, which comprised 17 members from the Sri Lanka Association for Printers (SLAP), representing eight companies from the commercial, newspaper, stationery printing, and packaging industries. This pioneering effort by AHK Sri Lanka not only showcased the diverse capabilities of Sri Lanka’s printing sector but also facilitated vital bilateral discussions with key stakeholders from the German printing industry.
Business
Unveiling Ayugiri: Browns Hotels & Resorts sets the stage for a new era in luxury Ayurveda Wellness
In a captivating reimagining of luxury wellness tourism, Browns Hotels & Resorts proudly unveiled the exquisite Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya. This momentous occasion, celebrated amidst a vibrant and serene grand opening on the 6th of June, heralds a new chapter in the Ayurveda wellness tourism landscape in Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst 54 acres of unspoiled natural splendour, Ayugiri features 22 exclusive suites and stands out as the only luxury Ayurveda wellness resort in the country offering plunge pools in every room, rendering it truly one-of-a-kind.
The grand opening of Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort was an enchanting event, where guests were captivated by the melodies of flutists and violinists resonating through Sigiriya’s lush landscapes. As traditional drummers and dancers infused the air with vibrant energy, Browns Hotels & Resorts’ CEO, Eksath Wijeratne, Kotaro Katsuki, Acting Ambassador for the Embassy of Japan and General Manager, Buwaneka Bandara, unveiled the resort’s new logo, marking a significant moment witnessed by distinguished guests from the French Embassy, Ayurveda and wellness enthusiasts along with officials from the Sigiriya area, LOLC Holdings and Browns Group.
“Our strategic expansion into wellness tourism with Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya symbolises a significant milestone for Browns Hotels & Resorts. Wellness tourism has consistently outperformed the overall tourism industry for over a decade, reflecting a growing global interest in travel that goes beyond leisure to offer rejuvenation and holistic well-being. By integrating the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda with modern luxury, we aim to set a new standard in luxury wellness tourism in Sri Lanka. Whether your goal is prevention, healing, or a deeper connection to inner harmony, Ayugiri offers a sanctuary for holistic well-being” stated Eksath Wijeratne.
Ayugiri encapsulates the essence of life, inspired by the lotus flower held by the graceful queens of the infamous Sigiriya frescoes. Just as the lotus emerges from the murky depths, untainted and serene,
Ayugiri invites guests on a journey of purity and rejuvenation, harmonised with a balance of mind, body and spirit, the essence of nature, echoes of culture and the wisdom of ancient Ayurvedic healing.
Business
HNB General Insurance recognized as Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024
HNB General Insurance, one of Sri Lanka’s leading general insurance providers, has been honored as the Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024 by the prestigious Global Banking and Finance Review – UK.
The esteemed accolade underscores HNB General Insurance’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its outstanding performance in the field of bancassurance. Through dedication and hard work, the HNB General Insurance team has continuously endeavored to deliver innovative insurance solutions, cultivate strong relationships with banking partners, and provide unparalleled service to customers nationwide. This recognition is a testament to the team’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence in the bancassurance business.
“We are honored to receive this prestigious award, which reflects our team’s tireless efforts and dedication to delivering value-added insurance solutions and exceptional service through our bancassurance partnerships,” said Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of HNB General Insurance. “This recognition reaffirms our position as a trusted insurance provider in Sri Lanka and motivates us to continue striving for excellence in serving our customers and communities.”