National Savings Bank (NSB) has partnered EDEX Expo Mid-Year 2026 as its Official Banking Partner for the first time, strengthening its focus on supporting Sri Lanka’s youth through education and financial inclusion.

The partnership was announced at the launch of EDEX Expo Mid-Year 2026, with NSB Acting General Manager/CEO Rohana Bandara Weerakoon representing the bank at the ceremony.

The exhibition, organised by the Royal College Union, will be held on September 5 and 6 at the BMICH in Colombo. Organised continuously since 2004, EDEX brings together local and international higher education institutions, professional and vocational training providers, employers, government agencies and private sector organisations.

NSB said the partnership was aimed at helping students, parents and young professionals meet the financial demands associated with education and career development.

Among the facilities highlighted by the bank are the NSB I’M account for youth aged 19 to 35 and NSB Buddhi, an education loan facility covering local and overseas degree programmes. The bank also offers personal loans, foreign currency services, visa-related balance confirmations and Telegraphic Transfer facilities, subject to applicable conditions.

NSB will maintain a presence at the exhibition, where visitors can obtain information on its education and financial services.

“Education and financial empowerment must go hand in hand,” Weerakoon said, adding that supporting young people was an investment in the country’s future.

By Nishantha Chaminda Peiris

Space science stands at the forefront of global research, and there has been increasing discussion regarding space and astronomy in recent times. The number of enthusiasts and researchers engaged in this field is rising worldwide. In Sri Lanka, too, various professional institutions—including the University of Colombo, the Arthur C. Clarke Centre, and school astronomy units—have long been conducting activities to raise awareness about this field. At present, a large number of people are showing a keen interest in this field. Recent studies have also highlighted the response to it from children not only in Colombo but also in remote rural areas.

Especially at a time when various geographical changes, as well as climatic and weather-related fluctuations, are frequently occurring across the globe, many people are keen to stay informed about the latest developments in this regard. There are many Sri Lankan experts actively serving at leading astronomical institutions worldwide, including NASA. Consequently, by conducting further academic discussions, seminars, and similar activities regarding this subject within our country’s school and university systems, reliable and comprehensive knowledge about the field can be disseminated to society. This is also crucial for the future.

There is a clear need to provide the current generation of our country with a proper understanding of modern technology, as well as nature, astronomy, and related fields. The Department of Physics at the University of Colombo conducts research in space science and astronomy and launches special programs for the latest studies in these areas. The university aims to achieve significant advancement in this field this year. A new development initiative, featuring modern equipment systems for the technology and space science sectors, will be implemented in the coming days.

A course has been organized specifically for those interested in space science and astronomy. This course is open to students in Grade 10 and above, as well as to anyone else with an interest in the subject. This program covers the history and observational aspects of astronomy, as well as the structure and evolution of astronomical objects. Participants gain an understanding of the solar system and the universe, along with knowledge regarding astronomical instruments. Practical sessions on setting up simple astronomical equipment and observing the night sky are also included.

This weekend course will commence on 12th September 2026. For further information, please contact the Department of Physics, University of Colombo on 0112 584 777 or email assu.uoc@phys.cmb.ac.lk. Those interested can register for the course this week. The new term, commencing tomorrow, presents an excellent opportunity for both students and teachers who wish to participate.

Sri Lankan fashion designer Ruwanthi Gajadeera presented an original cyanotype artwork to King Charles III at a garden party held in London to mark the 125th anniversary of the Victoria League for Commonwealth Friendship.

The artwork, titled Eka Mawakage Daruwo (Children of One Mother), was unveiled at the League’s Bayswater house. Inspired by Sri Lanka’s national anthem, the work explores themes of shared identity and belonging across ethnic and religious differences.

Gajadeera incorporated the national flowers of all 56 Commonwealth countries into the composition, arranged around a crown motif containing the endangered High Brown Fritillary butterfly.

The artwork was produced using traditional cyanotype techniques, with each flower hand-drawn and the paper manually sensitised before being exposed to sunlight. The distinctive blue colour is created through a photochemical process rather than applied pigments, reflecting Gajadeera’s focus on sustainable design.

The event was attended by League trustees, Commonwealth representatives, High Commissioners, including Sri Lanka’s envoy to the UK Nimal Senadheera, and students in residence. King Charles, patron of the League, also unveiled a commemorative plaque and interacted with students.

Gajadeera, who holds an MA in Fashion from the Royal College of Art, is currently developing her studio practice in London through InnovationRCA. Her work combines Sri Lankan handloom traditions, natural dyeing and cyanotype techniques.