Business
Groundbreaking academy aimed at managing climate change issues
By Ifham Nizam
Climata (Pvt) Ltd and BCAS Campus recently announced the launching of Climata Academy, a groundbreaking educational initiative aimed at empowering individuals to take action against climate change through a practical based education with the help of artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies.
‘The launch of the Climata Academy marks a significant milestone in the country’s fight against climate change. By investing in education and empowering future generations, Sri Lanka is paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future for all, company sources said.
These sources added: ‘The Academy would be teaching Certificate, Diploma and Degree programs, spanning Climate Smart Agriculture, Climate Smart Aquaculture, Sustainable Finance, Corporate Sustainability, Green Marketing and more.
‘The Climata Academy offers immersive learning experiences designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to build a greener future. The Climata Academy provides a unique platform where learning translates directly into tangible action, fostering a generation of climate-conscious leaders.’
Speaking at a press conference, IAS Holdings Group Managing Director Tania Polonnowita Wettimuny said that investing in corporate sustainability isn’t just about the planet; it’s about the bottom line.
Wettimuny added that ‘it’s about optimizing resource usage, reducing waste, and innovating for a greener future. It’s about creating a workforce empowered with the knowledge and skills to lead this transformation.
Speaking on the topic, ` Why it’s important for organizations to invest on corporate sustainability’, Wettimuny said: “We at IAS Holdings understand the gravity of climate change and corporate sustainability. The road ahead demands climate action, one where economic prosperity and environmental responsibility walk hand-in-hand.”
Wettimuny stressed that it is the very reason why IAS Holdings, a company dedicated to logistics, finds itself at the forefront of Climata, ‘a venture dedicated to combating climate change. Climate change isn’t a distant threat; it’s a present reality demanding immediate action.
‘Businesses, once passive observers, are now key players in this fight. Why? Because sustainability is a survival strategy. It’s about building resilience, mitigating risks, and attracting talent and customers who crave purpose-driven brands. Sustainable companies outperform their less-green counterparts in efficiency, profitability, and brand loyalty,” she added.
Climata Academy, Founder and Chief Executive Officer Clair Prakash said that the institution is the first of its kind which is dedicated to climate change and sustainability education, powered by modern technology to equip people with the knowledge, skills and tools to address climate change and sustainability.
The Board of Directors of Climata Academy consists of a diverse panel, such as, Clair Prakash, Teresh Amaratunga, CEO of BCAS Campus, Tania Polonnowita Wettimuny and Gihan Mendis, Co-founder/CEO Engenuity AI.
Business
Ambeon Securities hosts exclusive investor forum on Sri Lanka’s economic and market outlook
Ambeon Securities recently hosted an exclusive investor forum, bringing together clients, investors, business leaders, and market professionals for an insightful discussion on Sri Lanka’s economic outlook and investment opportunities amidst a challenging global landscape.
The event was organized with the objective of providing investors with valuable insights to make better-informed investment decisions while further strengthening the firm’s engagement with its growing client base.
The forum featured Baqar Zaidi, Director and Chief Economist for Sri Lanka and India at Citi Research, as the keynote speaker. Sharing his perspectives on the evolving global macroeconomic environment, Mr. Zaidi discussed key themes influencing emerging and frontier markets, Sri Lanka’s economic trajectory, and the opportunities lie ahead.
The keynote address was followed by an engaging panel discussion comprising Baqar Zaidi, Aravinda De Silva, respected investor, entrepreneur, and the Chairman of Arcasia Holdings. Hasitha Premaratne, Group Managing Director of Brandix and Asanka Herath, Chief Executive Officer – Unit Trusts and Head of Equities at LYNEAR Wealth Management.
Moderated by Imran Furkan, the panel explored a range of topics including Sri Lanka’s macroeconomic outlook, the future of the Colombo Stock Exchange, sectoral opportunities, capital allocation strategies, investor confidence, and the role of policy reforms in attracting investment and supporting long-term growth.
Speaking at the event, Charith Kamaladasa, Chief Executive Officer of Ambeon Securities, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to facilitate quality insights, informed perspectives, and meaningful dialogue to support their clients while building lasting relationships with them. He noted that in an environment where uncertainty has become the new normal, equipping investors with timely information and expert perspectives is essential for successful wealth creation.
The event was well attended by a distinguished gathering of institutional investors, high-net-worth investors, and business leaders. Among those present were members of the Ambeon Group Board, including Group Chairman Sujeewa Mudalige, Group CEO Dr. Sajeeva Narangoda, and Chairman of Ambeon Securities Mangala Boyagoda. Their presence, together with the participation of Ambeon Group shareholders and valued clients, enriched the discussions and contributed to a vibrant networking session, fostering meaningful dialogue and stronger connections within the investment community.
Through initiatives such as this, Ambeon Securities continues to reinforce its commitment to helping clients navigate evolving market conditions, make informed investment decisions, and achieve their long-term financial goals.
Business
Tata Group leads humanitarian education support initiative with DIMO and ChildFund
The Tata Group, in partnership with ChildFund and DIMO, has successfully implemented a humanitarian education support initiative for disaster-affected schoolchildren in Sri Lanka, reaffirming its commitment to helping communities recover from the impacts of Cyclone Ditwah and the subsequent floods.
Following a formal request for support from Sri Lanka, an on-ground assessment was conducted in December 2025. Recognizing the urgent need, several Tata companies joined forces to implement the response program.
As part of this initiative, the ‘Hope in a Backpack’ programme, which provides disaster-affected children with essential educational supplies, was launched by the Tata Group at Taj Samudra, Colombo, in the presence of the Chief Guest, Hon. Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya; the Guest of Honour, Hon. Indian High Commissioner Santhosh Jha; Ranjith Pandithage, Chairman of DIMO; Chacko Thomas, Group Chief Sustainability Officer, Tata Sons; and Aditi Ghosh, Country Director, ChildFund.
This initiative is part of DIMO’s Social and Community Pillar, under the project theme ‘Lassana Hetak,’ which focuses on giving the future generation a helping hand towards a better future.
This collective effort was further strengthened by volunteers from Tata and DIMO, who actively mobilized on the ground to pack, distribute, and support affected communities. During the proceedings, specially invited schoolchildren received the backpacks with essential supplies as well.
Commenting on the partnership, Ranjith Pandithage, Chairman of DIMO, said: “DIMO is proud to collaborate on this meaningful initiative alongside the Tata Group and ChildFund as the local implementation and logistics partner. Our relationship with Tata spans more than six decades and has been built on a shared commitment to ethical business practices, trust, and creating lasting value for the communities we serve. These values have shaped our partnership over the years, extending beyond business to initiatives that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.”
Business
NovaNest Properties launches Rainbow Apartments in Ratmalana
NovaNest Properties (Pvt) Ltd has officially launched Rainbow Apartments, a new residential development in Ratmalana. The announcement was made at an official launch event held at the Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo, marking the company’s latest addition to Sri Lanka’s growing apartment market.
The development is designed to cater to homebuyers seeking modern urban living, as well as investors looking for long-term value. Rainbow Apartments is located in Ratmalana, an area of increasing residential interest, and benefits from the suburb’s established social infrastructure, proximity to major transportation links, and accessibility to Colombo.
The project reflects NovaNest Properties’ commitment to delivering quality residential developments that combine contemporary design with practical living. Intended to satisfy the evolving lifestyle demands of today’s homeowners, Rainbow Apartments features thoughtfully designed living spaces supported by modern amenities. These include two infinity pools, a gym, fully functional workspaces, a mini theatre, stylish cafés, a mini-mart, and a children’s daycare. Additionally, it features a full time medical centre backed by Nawaloka Hospitals PLC Colombo, with a 24-hour ambulance service.
Commenting on the launch, the Chief Executive Officer of NovaNest Properties (Pvt) Ltd, Samitha Waidyasekera, said, “Today’s buyers are looking beyond square footage. In addition to providing long-term value, they want homes that are close to the places where they work, learn, and spend their time. With that shift in mind, Rainbow Apartments was created to bring together a strategic location, thoughtful design, and quality construction in a way that will continue to meet buyers’ needs for years to come. Through our promise of ‘Luxury Beyond Expectations,’ we are committed to delivering an elevated lifestyle experience that combines comfort, convenience, and modern living.
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