The Old Boys’ Association (OBA) of Maris Stella College, Negombo, proudly announces the upcoming edition of its flagship annual College Day oration and panel discussion, Maris Panorama 2025, scheduled to take place on 6th June 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at Hotel Grandeeza, Negombo.
Recognized as a nationally relevant platform for discourse on timely and critical issues, Maris Panorama returns this year under the theme: “Transforming Sri Lanka: Paving the Path from Traditional to Digital Economy.” The event aims to spotlight the urgent imperative for Sri Lanka to modernize its economic structures and regulatory frameworks
through the strategic adoption of digital innovation.
This year’s discussion will convene distinguished thought leaders and key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors to explore the opportunities and challenges surrounding the country’s digital transformation agenda.
The event will feature a keynote address by Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya, Senior Advisor to the President on the Digital Economy, and a panel of influential voices from the public and private sectors including:
Waruna Sri Dhanapala, Secretary, Ministry of Digital Economy
Prof. Rohan Samarajeeva, Senior Policy Analyst
Sanjaya Wijemanne, Senior Executive Vice President/Chief Operating Officer
Felix Fernando, Managing Director, Omega Line
Dhammika Fernando, Chairman, Free Trade Zone Manufacturers Association
Moderator: Nisthar Cassim, Editor and Senior Journalist
The discussion will revolve around four critical pillars essential to Sri Lanka’s economic future:
- Understanding the Digital Economy and Its Key Components As global markets increasingly shift toward data-driven, tech-enabled systems, a robust digital economy is no longer optional—it is a necessity. The panel will outline the foundational components such as digital infrastructure, payment systems, data governance, and innovation ecosystems that are vital to building a resilient digital economy in Sri Lanka.
- Challenges of Digital Transformation and Strategies to Overcome Them - While digital transformation presents immense opportunity, it also introduces complex challenges including infrastructure gaps, regulatory uncertainty, skills shortages, and resistance to change. The forum will examine strategic approaches to overcoming these obstacles, with a focus on public-private collaboration, workforce reskilling, and policy innovation.
- Benefits of the Digital Economy and Its Impact on Citizens and National Stability - A well-executed digital strategy can enhance economic productivity, improve governance, increase financial inclusion, and generate new employment avenues. The discussion will
explore how digital transformation can directly enhance the lives of citizens, reduce regional disparities, and strengthen socio-economic stability. - The Digital Economy Act and Its Implications - With the upcoming Digital Economy Act, Sri Lanka stands at a regulatory inflection point.
The Act is expected to define a comprehensive legal framework to support digital transactions, data protection, digital ID, and cyber governance. Experts will provide insight into the Act’s potential impact on industries, businesses, and governance.
For further information or media inquiries, please contact:
Old Boys’ Association, Maris Stella College - Sudath 0773284193/ Dhammika 0773225900