Japanese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Akio Isomata on 16 January awarded a Certificate of Commendation to Naohito Ishikawa, Director of the Non-Profit Organisation APCAS.

The text of the Japanese Embassy press release: “This commendation recognises Ishikawa’s outstanding contributions to promoting mutual understanding and strengthening the friendship between Japan and Sri Lanka. His dedicated efforts and significant achievements over the years have been highly valuable and appreciated.

The award ceremony took place during the New Year Reception held at the Ambassador’s residence. The presentation was conducted in the presence of members of the Japanese Solidarity Association and the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Sri Lanka.

From 2002 to 2005, Ishikawa served as a Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteer (JOCV) under JICA, stationed in Anuradhapura. In December 2004, when the tsunami, triggered by the Indian Ocean earthquake, struck Sri Lanka, he and his fellow volunteers carried out emergency relief operations. Although he was scheduled to return to Japan upon completing his JOCV term, he decided to remain in the country to continue the tsunami recovery efforts. He initially joined an NGO conducting relief projects in Sri Lanka and worked with them for a year. However, when the NGO decided to withdraw from the country, he co-founded the non-profit organization APCAS with his friends to ensure the continuity of support activities in Sri Lanka.

Upon learning that visually impaired individuals in Sri Lanka faced significant barriers to employment and financial independence—despite the fact that similarly handicapped individuals play active roles as massage therapists in Japan—he opened a Shiatsu Therapy Center in 2012. The goal was to move beyond “mere assistance” and foster a “mutually supportive relationship.” Today, the therapy centre employs 14 therapists who receive salaries comparable to those of able-bodied employees in general corporations, ensuring sustainable social and economic independence.

The IChemC stall at the EDEX Expo 2026, held from January 16 to 18 at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH), attracted significant attention from students and parents who were eager to explore opportunities in the field of chemical sciences. The stall showcased a wide range of academic programmes offered by the College of Chemical Sciences, including the BSc Hons (Chemical Science), Graduateship in Chemistry (GIC), and Diploma in Laboratory Technology (DLT), highlighting both theoretical knowledge and practical training pathways.

Experienced academic staff members and student representatives were present to provide detailed guidance on admissions, career prospects, and industry relevance. Interactive discussions and informative displays created a welcoming environment, enabling visitors to gain a clear understanding of the value of pursuing a professional career in chemistry. The overwhelming response and high level of engagement reflected the growing interest in chemical education and reinforced the strong reputation of IChemC as a leading institution in the field. It was also announced that the upcoming intake for these programmes are scheduled to commence on 25th January, 2026.

Deputy Leader of the Illankai Thamil Arasu Kadchi (ITAK) C.V.K. Sivagnanam has alleged that President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is making an attempt to break up the main political force in the North.

Addressing the media, in Jaffna, on 19 January, Sivagnanam claimed that President Dissanayake was trying hard to secure the allegiance of two senior ITAK members. He said he was confident that they would not switch their allegiance to the NPP.

Sivagnanam attributed President Dissanayake’s regular visits to the Northern Province and the allocation of significant amounts of public funds for development projects in the North to NPP’s bid to undermine the ITAK.

While the LTTE was active, the ITAK-led TNA represented its interests in Parliament. The alliance collapsed before the last parliamentary election with constituent members breaking ranks.

Sivagnanam said that they had been cautious as the President allocated large amounts of funds for the North at the expense of the South. The ITAK senior censured the President for repeatedly inquiring into their activities, particularly during his visits to the North. According to him, though the President had assured the northerners of major projects, the NPP government was yet to implement any of them. Sivagnanam urged President Dissanayake to focus on two major issues, namely government-led land grab and post-war resettlement.

The ITAK senior asked the President to stop acting and start focusing on genuine issues.

By Dinasena Ratugamage ✍️