Message from the Chairman, Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (UK), Sri Lanka Branch

It is with great pride and pleasure that I extend my warmest greetings on the occasion of the 32nd Annual Awards Ceremony of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (UK), Sri Lanka Branch.

Founded in 1911 and granted a Royal Charter in 1920, the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (UK) has long stood as a beacon of professionalism, integrity, and excellence within the global maritime industry. Its enduring legacy and international recognition continue to set the benchmark for professional standards across shipping, logistics, and related sectors worldwide.

Our Annual Awards Ceremony held this year on 27th March 2026 at Cinnamon Lakeside, Colombo, marked yet another significant milestone for the Sri Lanka Branch. This prestigious event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, academics, and international representatives, reflecting both the strength and the growing relevance of Sri Lanka’s maritime sector in the global logistics landscape. We were especially honored by the presence of Mr. Krishnan Subramaniam, Chairman of ICS (UK), whose participation underscored the Institute’s continued global engagement and support towards Sri Lanka.

In addition to recognizing academic excellence, this year’s ceremony also celebrated outstanding customer service providers across the industry, including leading shipping lines, Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier (NVOCC), and Inland Container Depot Operators. These awards highlight the critical role of service excellence in enhancing Sri Lanka’s competitiveness as a maritime and logistics hub. I extend my best wishes to all winners for their exceptional performance and commitment to maintaining the highest standards within the industry.

As we celebrate the achievements of our students and professionals, it is equally important to look ahead and shape the future of maritime education in Sri Lanka. In this regard, the Sri Lanka Branch has embarked on a progressive strategy focused on building strong partnerships with key industry stakeholders. These collaborations are designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and practical industry requirements, ensuring that our professionals are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and global perspective necessary to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment.

A notable example of this approach is our partnership with the Ceylon Association of Shipping Agents (CASA), through which we have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to provide structured educational pathways for nominees of CASA member organizations. This initiative represents a significant step in expanding access to globally recognized maritime education within the industry.

Further, in strengthening this effort, we have entered into an understanding with Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT) to offer scholarships to top performers of the specially designed local examination conducted for CASA nominees, enabling them to progress to the ICS (UK) professional qualifications. Through this meaningful collaboration, CWIT has come on board as the official "Youth Empowerment Partner of the ICS (UK) Sri Lanka Branch", reinforcing our shared commitment to nurturing the next generation of maritime professionals.

These initiatives highlight a broader vision, one that emphasizes the critical importance of collaboration among professional bodies, industry stakeholders, universities, and policymakers. Developing the human capital required to position Sri Lanka as a leading maritime hub cannot be achieved in isolation. It demands a coordinated and sustained effort to align education, industry needs, and national policy.

Sri Lanka’s strategic geographic location presents a unique opportunity to expand its role in global trade and logistics. However, to fully realize this potential, we must invest in people, in building a skilled, knowledgeable, and globally competent workforce capable of driving innovation and excellence across the maritime sector.

As we move forward, the ICS (UK) Sri Lanka Branch remains committed to fostering these partnerships, enhancing professional education, and contributing meaningfully to the development of the country’s maritime economy.

I congratulate all award recipients for their outstanding achievements and extend my appreciation to all stakeholders who continue to support our mission. Together, let us continue to elevate standards, strengthen collaboration, and unlock the full potential of Sri Lanka as a maritime nation.

Lalith Witanachchi, FICS

Chairman

Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (UK), Sri Lanka Branch