OPA kicks off Annual Conference today focusing on Sri Lanka’s economic recovery

The Organisation of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka (OPA) will provide a vibrant platform to help find innovative solutions to the country’s economic crisis at its 36th Annual Conference which will focus on the theme “Sri Lanka’s Challenging Path towards Economic Recovery and Stability.”

The flagship event will be held on 9 and 10 August at the Kingsbury Hotel, under the distinguished patronage of President Ranil Wickremesinghe. As Sri Lanka struggles to escape from bankruptcy, the Annual Conference will provide an invaluable opportunity for eminent experts and leading professionals to provide their knowledge and skills to help create effective short and long terms strategies that would drive the country’s economic recovery and growth. 

The Annual Conference includes technical sessions on matters of vital national importance. Industry leaders will share their knowledge on vital, timely topics such as the development of the manufacturing and renewable energy sectors, entrepreneurship and SMEs, FDIs and domestic investments, export-oriented growth, tourism and foreign employment. 

The presentations will be followed by question and answer sessions, enabling participants to obtain valuable insights into the topics. The deliberations of the Annual Conference are presented to the Government and other stakeholders, helping to shape future economic policy. 

Being the apex body of 52 member associations, representing 34 professions and over 60,000 members, the OPA functions as the voice of Sri Lanka’s professionals. It plays a pivotal role in fostering multi-disciplinary collaborations where the country’s professionals can work together, offering their expertise and experience for the development of the nation. Since its launch with 10 member associations in 1975, the OPA has grown exponentially and today occupies a premier place among the professional organisations of the country.

The Annual Conference, first held in 1988, marks the culmination of the OPA’s yearly activities. An important part of the Annual Conference is the National Apex Awards which are held every three years. The awards recognise professionals who have made substantial contributions to their chosen fields as well as the nation, having reached the pinnacle of their careers. Notable past winners include Prof. Chandana Jayaratne, who has been recognised and listed on the Asian Scientist 100 for 2023, Prof. Lakshman R. Watawala, and Deshamanya Dr. Surath Wickremasinghe.