The journey towards national progress requires collective effort and a shared commitment and the progress and continuous improvement of higher education remain among the most important responsibilities in building that knowledgeable, skilled and capable society, according to Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya.

The Prime Minister made these remarks while participating as the Chief Guest at the 48th Annual Sessions of the Institution of Incorporated Engineers, Sri Lanka (IIESL) at the BMICH.

The institution of Incorporated Engineers, Sri Lanka has been established to protect the professional interests of the ‘Incorporated Engineer,’ who is one of the key groups in the global classification of engineering practitioners, which includes Chartered Engineers, Incorporated Engineers, and Engineering Technicians.

During the event, membership certificate was awarded to the dedicated new members of Institution of Incorporated Engineers, Sri Lanka by the Prime Minister.

Addressing the occasion, Prime Minister Amarasuriya stated that the programmes and initiatives undertaken by the Institution of Incorporated Engineers, Sri Lanka will continue to empower its members to advance in their professional journeys and contribute meaningfully to the progress of the nation, noting the contribution of engineering professionals to national development.

The Prime Minister also noted that in a rapidly evolving global economy, where skills and competencies are increasingly measured against internationally recognised standards, the limited recognition of certain engineering qualifications has constrained employment and career opportunities for many capable professionals and that addressing these challenges, she said, is essential not only for the advancement of individual practitioners but also for strengthening Sri Lanka's engineering capacity and global competitiveness.

Highlighting the government's commitment to education, the Prime Minister stated that the continuous improvement of higher education remains a national priority. She noted the government is committed to building an education system that provides meaningful opportunities for individuals to expand their knowledge, strengthen their skills, and contribute effectively to the country's future.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya further stressed that achieving these goals requires continuous dialogue and collaboration between the government, educational institutions, professional bodies, industry and other stakeholders stating that the journey towards national progress requires collective effort and a shared commitment.

The event was attended by the President of the Institution of Incorporated Engineers, Sri Lanka, Eng. M.P. Ananda Gunawardana, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Vocational Technology, Prof. K.M.G. Prasanna Premadasa, the Chairman of the Engineering Council of Sri Lanka, Eng. Dr. Tilak De Silva, council members, past presidents of the Institution, newly admitted members and distinguished invitees, the Office of the Prime Minister said.