Business
‘Rev. Fr. Dr. Camillus Fernando to lead BCI Campus to new heights’
Marking a new chapter in the leadership of the respected BCI, Rev. Fr. Dr. Camillus Fernando was formally installed as the 2nd Rector/Vice Chancellor of the Institution at a ceremony held recently.
The installation service, presided over by His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, Archbishop of Colombo and Founder of BCI, took place on October 12, 2023.
In his inauguration speech, Rev. Fr. Dr. Camillus Fernando expressed his gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility towards BCI. He acknowledged the foundation laid down by His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith and emphasized the importance of consistency and progress. He affirmed BCI’s identity as a Catholic University committed to Christ-like service.
The exemplary leadership of Very Rev. Fr. Quintus Fernando, his predecessor, was also acknowledged by him. He further outlined his vision of continuing to build on the existing strong and established foundation that is already in place, with special emphasis on the social mission of BCI and his optimism towards BCI’s contribution to the society in the future.
Rev. Fr. Dr. Camillus Fernando concluded his speech by calling for teamwork and collaboration among the Governing Council, Academic Senate, professors, and staff for the development and progress of BCI to take the institution to new heights. He expressed conviction in the uniqueness of each individual’s contribution and concluded with a heartfelt acknowledgment of his family.
He said, “I plan to give my heart and soul and all my energy to the service of BCI, which enables me to look to the future with optimism. I know how much BCI already does for the world, the country, and the region through academic excellence. I believe that BCI can do even more because I cannot imagine an institution that is better equipped to contribute to the society in real and meaningful ways.”
Rev. Fr. Dr. Camillus Fernando was ordained as a Priest on July 25, 1992. Having served in various capacities spanning multiple decades of service, he is a proficient, highly qualified and well-experienced educator. In addition to serving as a Parish Priest at various locations, he was extensively involved in academic, religious, and editorial positions including being an academic staff member of St. Peter’s College, Colombo, Dean of Philosophy at the National Seminary, Kandy, Rector at Holy Cross College, Kalutara and St. Aloysius Minor Seminary, Colombo.
He was also the Director of the Colombo Catholic Press, editor of several Catholic weekly newspapers, and the media spokesperson of the Archdiocese of Colombo. He also served as the Rector of St. Nicholas’ International School, Colombo and Parish Priest of St. John Dal Bastone Church, Thalangama.
Academically, Fr. Camillus holds a Doctorate in Science of Education from the Urbanian University in Rome, a Master’s Degree in Social Sciences from the University of Kelaniya and a Postgraduate Diploma in Buddhism from the University of Kelaniya. He has published extensively and served as Executive Secretary of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conference (FABC) for Evangelization, Bible and Liturgy.
BCI Campus, Negombo was opened in 2015 and focuses on providing affordable, high quality tertiary education with a values-based approach. Under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Dr Camillus Fernando, BCI aims to expand its programmmes and community impact, paving a new era, continuing its commitment to academic excellence and Christ-like service.
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.”