“Bank of Ceylon helped revolutionise agriculture through drones and empower young entrepreneurs” Source:- www.ft.lk Kenilworth International Managing Director Kavinda Dissanayake on how his partnership with BOC is revolutionising local farming  Drones are rapidly transforming various industries worldwide, and Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector is no exception. Kenilworth International, a company originally focused on security technology, has been at the forefront of introducing drone applications in agriculture. With the support of the Bank of Ceylon, the company has expanded its operations, tackling challenges related to cost, accessibility, and regulatory frameworks.Kavinda Dissanayake, Managing Director of Kenilworth International, discusses how the company transitioned into the agricultural sector, the financial backing required for scaling up, and the tangible benefits drone technology has brought to paddy and tea plantations. He also outlines future plans for expansion beyond agriculture and emphasises the role of data-driven farming in shaping Sri Lanka’s agricultural landscape over the next decade.In this interview, ...

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Popular Banker and Cricketer Shanti Jayasekera passes away in London – By Ivan Corea Shanti Jayasekera, former banker with the Midland Bank in London, recently passed away in the United Kingdom. A moving funeral service was held in a packed St. Paul’s Church in Ruislip in the UK. Shanti was a hugely popular member of the Sri Lankan Community in London. I first met Shanti and his parents, Brighty and Sirima Jayasekera, at community events organised by the Association of Sri Lankans held in London in the 1970s. Shanti’s father was Manager of the Bank of Ceylon in the UK. The Jayasekera family were fully involved in community events and I remember Shanti’s Mum, Sirima being a real “live wire” in London. She was involved in some incredible charity work in Sri Lanka through a charity she set up called the Brighty Jayaskera Endowment Fund and was in the forefront of ...

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GORDON COORAY NO MORE – By the Australian Antonians Source :  Australian Antonians It is with much sadness we notify the demise of our friend and old-Antonian, GORDON COORAY, who passed away peacefully yesterday. He was 88. Gordon was an active member of the Old Antonian Social Club (Australia) from its inception in 1981. He had the distinction of serving in different roles during his time in the committee. He was the President for two years (1984 and 1996), Secretary in 1995 and Treasurer in 1999. In recognition of his services to the Club, Gordon received the Service Award in 2016. As the photos below suggest, he was a regular at our social gatherings until recently. Although Gordon’s time at College was brief, having studied at St Sylvester’s for most of his school career, his love and passion for SACK was enormous. Gordon was a Banker with the Bank of ...

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WICKRAMA BOGODA UNASSUMING SENSATIONAL ACTOR ON STAGE AND CINEMA REMINISCEND – by Sunil Thenabadu Photos Source : apekattiya Bogoda Appuhamilage Don Wickrama Bogoda  born on June 16, 1940 died on January 15, 2013, traditionally known  as Wickrama Bogoda, was an actor cinema and but more predominantly in theatre. Principally known for fictitious character acting in both in stage plays and movies. Plays. Bogoda has performed in many theatre plays , over 15 chosen movies over two decades from 1960 to 1985. His role in Movie Golu Hadawatha made known for his sensational portrayal.  Bogoda was born on June 16, 1940 to a middle-class family unit during the pre-war years. His father worked in the CEB his mother was a school teacher. In a family of three children, he was the eldest, with one brother and two sisters. Bogoda studied at Dharmapala Vidyalaya, Pannipitiya . He never has had any fondness to be an actor ...

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The Interminable Patriot is no more! – by Dr. Tilak S. Fernando   Douglas Wickramaratne answered the final call from this world on 1 December 2021. He was born on 9 April 1938 in Colombo. He lived in North London and was an interminable patriot.  He always argued with the international community to safeguard the reputation of Sri Lanka. His funeral took place on  14 December at the West  Chappal of Golders Green, Crematorium,  London NW11. He was educated at Ananda College, Colombo and was the leader of the debating team for both Sinhala and English, until Dr Buddhadasa Bodhinayake succeeded him. After leaving  Ananda,  he worked at the Bank of Ceylon as a manager and subsequently with the National Savings Bank in Sri Lanka. Douglas arrived in London in 1970 to pursue further studies. Upon completing his studies in London, he joined the Lloyd’s Bank of London as a ...

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Mohamed Ahilar a heartthrob sought after vocalist at Derana Dream Star 60 PLUS – by Sunil Thenabadu The singing competition organized by the Derana television in the same vein as the popular Derana Dream Star gruelling contest In the 4th season concluded in year 2020 like in the Dream Star contest attracts many keen contestants from all parts of the island draws a huge viewer attraction. Mohamend Ahilar though muslim could sing any Sinhalese song to precision. But he is absolutely confident in singing legendary HR Jothipala songs.With the aid of members of the Judge panel Ahilar had polled many SMS votes up to the time when the final three were selected.When in the final four by  just a whisker Ahilar was eliminated to the disappointment of all viewers and fans.Many thought Mohamed Ahilar was worthy of been the final three, but may be a dubious SMS counting system it is ...

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