The Association of Former International Civil Servants (AFICS) whose membership consists of former Consultants and retired officials of UN, and its specialized agencies, World Bank and ADB; held its AGM and annual fellowship on October 15 at the Royal Colombo Golf club.

AFICS Sri Lanka was formed in early 1990’s under the Chairmanship of late Dr Gamini Corea, its founder President. AFICS is a member of FAFICS (Federation of Former International Civil Servants) International body which brings together 64 Member Associations worldwide, representing approximately 20,000 retirees from the United Nations and its specialized agencies. AFICS Sri Lanka currently has a membership of around 65 members.

The AGM was held under the Chairmanship of the current President, Mr Ranjith Withana (former UNIDO Consultant) and was well attended. At the outset one minute silence was observed in memory of recently departed two Executive Committee members; Dr. Nimal Fernando (ADB) and Mr. George Michael (FAO). Their contributions to the Association and to international service were fondly remembered. Reference was also made to the recent passing of the following members: Dr. Jayantha Dhanapala, Dr. Upali Kuruppu, Mr. GE Chitty, Ms. Methsili Silva-Ehrlich.

The Annual Report of Activities for the period 2024-2025 was next presented by the Secretary-General, Mr Lal Kurukulasuriya (former UNEP Consultant). The report highlighted the improved communication channels, strengthened governance, and a renewed commitment to social and fellowship activities. Financial stability was maintained, and the groundwork was laid for a more engaging program of events in the year ahead, with a clear focus on member well-being, humanitarian values, and community spirit.

Following this the Treasurer, Ms. Anita Dassanayake (former UNHCR, WMO) presented the audited financial statements for the year 2024. The financial position of the Association was reported to be sound, with prudent management of funds throughout the year.

The following Office Bearers were then elected for the 2025-2026 period: Mr. Ranjith Withana (UNIDO) President, Mr. A. H. M. Farook (UNICEF) Vice President; Mr Ranjith Wirasinhe (ADB) Vice President; Mr Lal Kurukulasuriya (UNEP) Secretary General and Ms Anita Dassanayake (UNHCR, WMO) Treasurer.

The following were elected to the General Committee: Mr. Adrian Senadhera (WHO); Dr. Nimal Hettiaratchi (UNICEF, UNFPA); Mr. Ranjith Senevirathna (FAO); Mr. K. M. D. Gunaratne (Commonwealth Secretariat); Mr Tilak Abeysinghe (UNHCR); Prof. Kamini Mendis (WHO); Prof Tuley De Silva (UNIDO);Mr. Shantha De Silva (UNCTAD); Mr. Lakshman Wickramasinghe (UNICEF); Ms. Hema Dasanayaka (WHO); Mr. Mahinda Katugaha (FAO); Ms Soma De Silva (UNICEF)

A lively discussion took place about possible future activities to further enhance closer social interaction among members.

A novel feature was the inclusion of a Guest Lecture on a subject of interest to the membership.

The Guest Lecture was delivered by Dr Chandana Kanakaratna, MBBS, MRCP, MD, Consultant Geriatric Physician in Sri Lanka and UK on ‘How Best to Cope with the Ageing Process’

This very relevant presentation was well received by the membership as it was both informative and engaging, offering practical advice, and highlighting the importance of physical, emotional, and social well-being as we age.

Mr Farook (UNICEF) in proposing a vote of thanks to Dr Kanakaratna, indicated how valuable the talk was and that it was well appreciated by the audience, as evident by the interesting discussion which followed the talk.

The day’s proceedings were concluded after the traditional annual fellowship lunch.