Saturday Apr 25, 2026
Saturday Apr 25, 2026
Saturday, 25 April 2026 02:35 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
A special program organised to celebrate “World Intellectual Property Day,” which recognizes the value of human creativity, was held yesterday at the Duncan White Auditorium of the Youth Affairs and Sports Ministry.
World Intellectual Property Day, which falls on 26 April, is celebrated this year under the theme “IP and Sports: Ready, Set, Innovate.” The event highlighted the critical role of intellectual property rights in driving innovation, technology, branding, and design within the sports industry.
The event was presided over by the Trade, Commerce, and Food Security Deputy Minister R.M. Jayawardena. Sports Deputy Minister Sugath Thilakaratne, Youth Affairs and Sports Secretary Aruna Bandara, and National Intellectual Property Office Director General Geethanjali Ranawaka were among the distinguished guests in attendance.
Speaking at the event, Jayawardena pointed out that all human creations—ranging from literary and artistic works to inventions and trademarks—fall under the category of intellectual property. He emphasized that securing these rights not only ensures fair benefits for creators but also directly impacts the economic, technological, and cultural development of the country.
In a special address, Thilakaratne discussed creativity within the sports sector, stating that when developing athletes, the full responsibility and rights rest with the coaches. He added that with the advancement of sports technology, protecting intellectual property rights in this field has become vital.
It was further discussed that Sri Lanka’s intellectual property system is governed by the Intellectual Property Act No. 36 of 2003, with all administrative functions handled by the National Intellectual Property Office. Furthermore, it was noted that rights are secured globally under 26 international treaties administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), which in turn stimulates new job opportunities and industries.
The commemorative event concluded by emphasizing the importance of maintaining an efficient and fair intellectual property system to encourage creativity for the progress of human civilisation.
