24/04/2026
Official Launch of Sri Lanka Event Calendar and Diploma in International Event Management & Marketing Studies
The Event Management Association (EMA) of Sri Lanka officially launched two transformative initiatives, the Sri Lanka Event Calendar and the Diploma in International Event Management & Marketing Studies, during a prestigious ceremony held last evening at the Shangri-La Colombo.
Developed by the Event Management Advisory Committee under the guidance of the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, the Event Calendar serves as a centralized platform to showcase all major national events. The event was honored by the presence of Hon. Sunil Handunneththi, Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Mr. Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Deputy Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, and Mrs. Thilaka Jayasundara, Secretary of the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development. Their attendance underscored the government's recognition of the event industry as a vital pillar of the national economy and entrepreneurial landscape.
Speaking at the landmark event, Mr. Saliya Weerasekera, President of the EMA, hailed the day as a historic turning point for the industry. "Having weathered years of challenges as a united family, we are proud to launch two initiatives that will redefine our future," Weerasekera stated. He announced the official Sri Lanka Event Calendar, to showcase the nation’s vibrant culture to the world, and the Diploma in International Event Management and Marketing Studies; a premier qualification that bridges the gap between academic theory and hands-on industry experience through EMA member companies.
To meet the growing demand for specialized expertise in the global events sector, the Event Management Association (EMA), in collaboration with Saegis Campus and Pearson UK, announced the launch of the Diploma in International Event Management & Marketing Studies. This strategic partnership was spearheaded by the leadership of Saegis Campus, including Mr. Bandara Dissanayake (Chairman) and Major General Milinda Peiris (Retired) (Vice Chancellor & CEO).
During the ceremony, the official Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was handed over, and enrollment letters were presented to the first six students of the diploma program.
The event included an insightful panel discussion moderated by Mr. Roshan Wijeyaratne : Inaugural President of the EMA, featuring key figures such as Major General Milinda Peiris (Retired) : Vice Chancellor and CEO of Saegis Campus, Mrs. Thilaka Jayasundara : Secretary of the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, Mr. Nishan Wasalatantri : Past President of the EMA, and Mr. Bathiya Jayakody : Vice President of the EMA.
The evening featured high-profile performances, including a specially choreographed act inspired by the Kandy Esala Perahera, directed by maestro Channa Wijewardana with music by Rakitha Wickramaratne, performed by the Channa-Upuli Performing Arts Foundation and Naadro. A traditional Thammattama drum act by Naadro further showcased the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
The evening concluded with a professional Vote of Thanks delivered by Mr. Uzmaan Ghouse, the Secretary of the EMA. Key highlights from the address included:
*Government Support: Heartfelt gratitude was extended to the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, specifically Hon. Minister Sunil Handunneththi, Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe, and Secretary Thilaka Jayasundara for their immense support.
*Key Partnerships: The Secretary thanked Saegis Campus Chairman Mr. Bandara Dissanayake for his role in elevating industry standards, and the Shangri-La Colombo for their impeccable hospitality.
*Production & Artistry: Recognition was given to various technical partners and performers, including Channa-Upuli Performing Arts Foundation and Naadro, for showcasing Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.
*Leadership: A special tribute was paid to EMA President Mr. Saliya Weerasekera for spearheading these vital industry initiatives.
The event transitioned from formal proceedings to a networking session, celebrating a significant milestone for the Sri Lankan event industry.
