University of Colombo MBA Alumni Association holds 29th AGM

University of Colombo MBA Alumni Association new office bearers 2026-2027

The MBA Alumni Association (MBAAA) of the University of Colombo held its 29th Annual General Meeting on 25 June 2026 at Shangri-La Colombo, bringing together alumni, past presidents, trustees, members, academics and distinguished guests to review the Association’s achievements and outline its plans for the year ahead. 

The event was graced by Chief Guest Controller General of the Department of Imports and Exports Control T. T. Upulmalee Premathilaka, while Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo and Patron of the Association Prof. Indika Mahesh Karunathilake, attended as Guest of Honour. 

A highlight of the evening was the induction of Thantrige Supeshala as President of the MBA Alumni Association for the year 2026/2027, succeeding Ajith De Silva. Supeshala becomes the Association’s 30th President and assumes leadership at a time when the MBAAA continues to strengthen its role as one of Sri Lanka’s leading professional alumni bodies. 

A business leader and entrepreneur with over two decades of experience across finance, real estate, manufacturing and distribution, Supeshala is the Founder and Director of MyColomboProperties and previously served as Chief Financial Officer of Ferrero Lanka. 

A graduate of the University of Colombo MBA program, he has been an active member of the MBA Alumni Association since 2012, serving in a number of leadership roles including Treasurer, Vice President and most recently Deputy President. 

Presenting the Annual Report, outgoing President Ajith De Silva reflected on a successful year under the theme “Connected to Inspire: Professionalism Powering Progress.” During the year, the Association enhanced member engagement, professional development and industry dialogue through a range of initiatives, including the highly successful Post-Budget Forum 2026, the KuruMBA Cricket Tournament, membership development programs and university engagement activities. These initiatives reinforced the Association’s commitment to delivering value to its members and stakeholders while strengthening its longstanding relationship with the University of Colombo. 

Addressing the membership following his induction, President Supeshala unveiled the theme for the year 2026/2027: “Connect, Collaborate and Create Impact.” He emphasised the importance of fostering stronger connections among alumni, encouraging collaboration across professions and industries, and creating meaningful impact for members, the University and the wider community. He noted that the MBAAA’s diverse network of accomplished professionals provides a unique platform for knowledge-sharing, innovation and professional growth. 

Supeshala outlined plans to further strengthen member engagement, expand opportunities for networking and professional development, deepen collaboration with the University of Colombo and support initiatives that contribute positively to society. He also reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to mentoring future business leaders through engagement with MBA students and recent graduates. 

A key priority for the coming year will be the continued strengthening of the Association’s flagship initiatives, particularly the widely recognised Post-Budget Forum, which has become a leading platform for dialogue between policymakers, business leaders, academics and professionals on Sri Lanka’s economic and fiscal direction. The Association also plans to expand its portfolio of thought-leadership and professional development initiatives, including the ESG Summit, networking forums and knowledge-sharing events. 

Speaking at the event, Vice Chancellor Prof. Indika Mahesh Karunathilake commended the MBAAA for its continued contribution to the University and its alumni community, while highlighting the importance of strengthening engagement between the University, students and graduates. 

Chief Guest Premathilaka shared reflections on her personal and professional journey in public service, highlighting how hard work, perseverance and merit enabled her to progress to positions of increasing responsibility. She encouraged members to embrace continuous learning, resilience and ethical leadership while striving for excellence in their professional lives. 

The newly elected Executive Committee for 2026/2027 comprises Prabhath Gunawardhana (Deputy President), Nilanka Abeywickrama (Vice President), Chamindhri Wimaladharma (Secretary), Inok Perera (Treasurer), Mihidini Silva (Assistant Secretary) and Nissansala Nawarathne (Assistant Treasurer), together with a team of committee members representing diverse professional backgrounds. 

Established to foster lifelong engagement among graduates of the University of Colombo MBA program, the MBAAA continues to promote learning, leadership, collaboration and service through professional forums, networking opportunities, community initiatives and support for the University. Under the theme “Connect, Collaborate and Create Impact,” the Association aims to further strengthen its alumni community while creating meaningful value for its members, the University and the broader business and professional community.

- Pix by Upul Abayasekara