Chandani Wijewardena becomes first woman Acting President’s Secretary

Acting Secretary to the President  Chandani Wijewardena

In a historic milestone, Chandani Wijewardena has been appointed as the Acting Secretary to the President making a groundbreaking feat by becoming the first woman to hold this esteemed position. 

Her appointment to this role comes while President’s Secretary Saman Ekanayake accompanies President Ranil Wickremesinghe on an official visit to India.

The momentous decision was announced yesterday and will remain in effect until Ekanayake returns to the country. 

As Acting Secretary to the President, Wijewardena is poised to bring her wealth of experience, strategic acumen, and dedication to the service of the President and the nation. Her appointment represents a significant milestone for gender equality and serves as an inspiration for women across the country. 

Wijewardena, an accomplished senior civil servant, is currently serving as a Senior Additional Secretary to the President, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role.

Her illustrious career spans back to 1994 when she joined the Sri Lanka Planning Service. Over the course of 22 years, Wijewardena held various critical positions within the Treasury and ultimately rose to the position of Director General of the Planning Department. Her dedication and outstanding service have earned her recognition and respect within the civil service.

Notably, Wijewardena has also held significant leadership roles in various ministries. From 2015 to 2019, she served as the Secretary of the Ministry of Development Strategy and International Trade, contributing her insights and skills to the nation’s economic development.

Her academic journey is equally impressive. Alumni of Galle Southland Girls’ College, she pursued her Master’s degree at Ruhuna University. Additionally, she holds a postgraduate degree in Regional Economic Development from The Hague University in the Netherlands, showcasing her commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.