Good governance an indispensable enabler to fortify Sri Lanka, says UNDP Country Director

• OPA Annual conference on ‘Good Governance’ in October

By Charumini de Silva

In a world of volatility, uncertainty, and unpredictability which makes development challenges complex and interconnected, good governance is an indispensable enabler for improving the quality of life of all segments of Sri Lankan society, a top United Nations official said recently. 

“As the development arm of the United Nations and a key development partner working for over five decades in Sri Lanka, we believe that everyone has a part to play in ensuring good governance,” UNDP Country Director Jorn Sorensen said.

He made these remarks at a press briefing held to announce the 29th Annual Conference of the Organisation of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka (OPA) titled ‘Good Governance – the Way Forward’. UNDP is the strategic partner as the theme this year is very relevant to the United Nations.

APEX Awards Committee Chairman Aruna Fernando addressing the gathering others from left:  OPA Past President Joel Fernando, President-Elect Ruwan Gallage, OPA President Rohana Kuruppu, UNDP Country Director Jorn Sorensen, OPA Treasurer Dulitha Perera and OPA Assistant Secretary Ruchira Gunasekara – Pic by Sameera Wijesinghe

Sorensen highlighting the importance of organisations such as the OPA stated, with nearly 50,000 professionals in various fields and an extensive outreach, OPA is well placed to support in the implementation of the 2030 Development Agenda. “OPA is well-positioned to support the broad state reforms agenda of the National Unity Government, and thereby contribute to the consolidation of democracy in the country.” 

According to the Country Director, key reforms include constitutional reforms, addressing corruption, sustainable economic development, rule of law, reconciliation and gender empowerment. 

“This calls for a collective approach to ensure that we bring our collective strengths to the task of achieving sustainable human development.  Peace, stability and effective governance are key to achieve sustainable human development,” he stressed.

Sorensen said they were pleased to contribute to the Annual Conference on ‘Good Governance’, by way of sharing UNDP’s comparative knowledge and best practice across the globe.

The inaugural session will be held on 4 October at the Cinnamon Grand under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena as the Chief Guest and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe as the Guest of Honour. 

The 2nd National Apex Awards will also be held on the day of the inauguration of the Annual Conference simultaneously. Awards in 10 categories such as Engineering Services, Health and Medical services, Financing and Banking, Science and Technology, Law, Agriculture, Defence and Maritime, Marketing, Economy and Management will be presented to eminent professionals who have contributed to the development of their own field of professions and to the society. 

The first edition of the National APEX award was held in 2013 showcased the significant achievements of members of affiliated Professionals Associations in Sri Lanka.

The Technical Sessions will be held on 5 October featuring a number of experts in various sectors and relevant areas of concern in their respective fields of study.

OPA is the apex body of Professional Associations in Sri Lanka with a membership of 47 associations and a total individual membership of over 50,000 professionals.