Tuesday, November 25, 2025

PIMA partners with SLPA for 70th Anniversary Convention

The Postgraduate Institute of Management Alumni (PIMA) has announced a significant strategic partnership with the Sri Lanka Press Association (SLPA) for the organization's milestone 70th Anniversary Convention. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in Sri Lanka's media and management education landscape, bringing together two prestigious institutions to celebrate seven decades of journalistic excellence.

Historic Partnership Agreement

The partnership was formalized through a memorandum of understanding signed by PIMA President Shantha Katipearachchi and SLPA President Kurulu Koojana Kariyakarawana at the PIM premises. This strategic alliance represents more than just a ceremonial collaboration; it symbolizes the convergence of management expertise and media excellence in Sri Lanka's professional landscape.

The signing ceremony underscored the mutual respect and shared vision between both organizations. PIMA, representing the alumni network of one of Sri Lanka's premier management institutes, brings decades of corporate leadership experience and strategic insights to support SLPA's landmark celebration.

70th Anniversary Convention Details

The highly anticipated SLPA 70th Anniversary Convention is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, January 26th, at the prestigious Hilton Colombo. This venue choice reflects the significance of the occasion, providing an appropriate setting for what promises to be a landmark event in Sri Lankan media history.

The convention will serve as a platform to reflect on seven decades of press freedom, journalistic integrity, and media evolution in Sri Lanka. It represents an opportunity for media professionals, industry leaders, and stakeholders to gather and discuss the future trajectory of journalism in the digital age.

Significance of PIMA's Strategic Partnership

PIMA's involvement as a strategic partner brings valuable management perspectives to the media industry discourse. The alumni network, comprising seasoned professionals across various sectors, offers unique insights into organizational development, strategic planning, and leadership excellence that can benefit the media landscape.

This partnership demonstrates how cross-industry collaboration can enhance professional development and institutional growth. By combining PIMA's management expertise with SLPA's media experience, the convention gains additional depth and perspective that will benefit all attendees.

SLPA's Seven-Decade Journey

The Sri Lanka Press Association's 70-year journey represents a remarkable chronicle of the country's media evolution. From the early days of print journalism to today's digital media landscape, SLPA has been instrumental in maintaining professional standards, advocating for press freedom, and supporting journalist welfare.

Throughout its history, SLPA has weathered various challenges while consistently championing the principles of independent journalism. The association has played a crucial role in training journalists, establishing ethical guidelines, and fostering professional development within the media industry.

Leadership Vision and Commitment

Under the leadership of President Kurulu Koojana Kariyakarawana, SLPA continues to adapt to contemporary media challenges while honoring its foundational principles. The decision to partner with PIMA reflects a forward-thinking approach that recognizes the importance of management excellence in media organizations.

Similarly, PIMA President Shantha Katipearachchi's commitment to this partnership demonstrates the organization's dedication to supporting professional excellence across various industries. This collaboration extends PIMA's influence beyond traditional business sectors into the vital realm of media and communications.

Expected Impact and Outcomes

The partnership between PIMA and SLPA for this anniversary convention is expected to generate significant discussions about the future of media management, organizational sustainability, and professional development in journalism. Attendees will benefit from exposure to both media expertise and management best practices.

The convention will likely address contemporary challenges facing the media industry, including digital transformation, financial sustainability, and maintaining editorial independence in an evolving landscape. PIMA's strategic partnership ensures these discussions will incorporate proven management methodologies and strategic thinking.

Building Future Collaborations

This partnership may serve as a foundation for future collaborations between management professionals and media organizations in Sri Lanka. By demonstrating the value of cross-sector partnerships, PIMA and SLPA are setting a precedent for innovative approaches to professional development and industry advancement.

The success of this collaboration could inspire similar partnerships between educational institutions, professional associations, and industry organizations, ultimately contributing to the overall development of Sri Lanka's professional landscape.

As the 70th Anniversary Convention approaches, the partnership between PIMA and SLPA represents more than just event collaboration—it symbolizes a commitment to excellence, professional development, and the continued evolution of both management and media practices in Sri Lanka. This historic gathering promises to be a significant milestone in celebrating past achievements while charting the course for future success.