Oxford University Sri Lanka Society Charts a Bold Future with New Leadership

Centre: Umayanga Nanayakkara, Sanjaya Ariyawansa, Insaf Bakeer Markar.

Standing: Rishan De Silva, Praveena Joseph De Saram, Ashok Ferrey, Neluka Silva, Hiran Embuldeniya

By Rishini Weeraratne

The Oxford University Society of Sri Lanka (OUS Sri Lanka) has unveiled its newly elected leadership team for 2025-2026, reaffirming its commitment to fostering academic excellence and alumni engagement. Following its Annual General Meeting, the Society has appointed Umayanga Nanayakkara as President and Sanjaya Ariyawansa as Vice President, marking the beginning of a dynamic new chapter. The Society also extended its heartfelt appreciation to outgoing President, Rishan De Silva, for his dedicated service.

The newly elected committee brings together a distinguished and diverse group of professionals dedicated to enhancing the Oxford alumni experience in Sri Lanka, and includes:

• President: Umayanga Nanayakkara
• Vice President: Sanjaya Ariyawansa
• Secretary: Insaf Bakeer Markar
• Treasurer: Hiran Embuldeniya
• Impact: Praveena Joseph De Saram
• Engagement: Rishan De Silva
• Alumni Relations: Shathuki Perera and Nishen de Silva
• Committee Members: Neluka Silva and Ashok Ferrey

With a legacy of producing some of Sri Lanka’s most influential figures; including political leaders S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike, Lalith Athulathmudali, and Lakshman Kadirgamar, the Society remains committed to advancing intellectual discourse and fostering stronger ties among Oxford alumni.

OUS Sri Lanka has made significant strides with its flagship program, “Applying to Oxford?”, which has played a pivotal role in increasing applications from talented students across diverse backgrounds. “We have seen remarkable success in guiding students through the Oxford admissions process,” says President, Umayanga Nanayakkara. “Our aim is to ensure that these bright minds return to contribute meaningfully to Sri Lanka’s development.”

A law graduate, Umayanga has completed the Foundations of Diplomacy and the Oxford Foreign Service Program, along with a Master's in South Asian Studies at St Antony’s College. Currently serving as a Director at AGC Innovate, he spearheads initiatives in green innovation, including Sri Lanka’s first plastic-modified asphalt road, which has won multiple awards.

Vice President Sanjaya Ariyawansa brings a wealth of economic expertise to the committee. As Senior Economist at the Economic Intelligence Unit of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and a visiting lecturer at the University of Moratuwa, he has also contributed to the Parliamentary Committee on Public Finance and worked on World Bank consultancy projects. Sanjaya holds an MSc in Economics from Oxford, a first-class BSc in Mathematics from the University of Colombo, and CIMA (UK) qualifications.

The Society is poised to enhance its engagement through intellectual exchanges, strategic partnerships, and cultural events. Plans for 2025-2026 include learning sessions, literary evenings, and strengthened regional collaborations aimed at broadening the reach of Oxford alumni in Sri Lanka.

Alumni interested in connecting with OUS Sri Lanka can reach out via email at [email protected] / [email protected] / [email protected] The new committee is eager to welcome fresh ideas and collaborations to enrich the Oxford experience in Sri Lanka.With an ambitious agenda and a team of accomplished professionals at the helm, OUS Sri Lanka is set to make a lasting impact on the academic and professional landscape of the country.