September 11, Colombo (LNW): A delegation of 30 Sri Lankan government media professionals has recently concluded a two-week advanced training programme in India, aimed at strengthening professional capacity and deepening bilateral ties in the sphere of public communication and media affairs.
The group, which included representatives from the Prime Minister’s Media Division, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Government Information, and district-level media units, participated in the programme from August 17 to 30, 2025.
Their visit formed part of a broader initiative stemming from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement during his official visit to Sri Lanka in April 2025, offering 700 annual training slots to Sri Lankan professionals across various fields.
The programme was organised by the Government of India at the request of Sri Lanka’s Department of Government Information and coordinated by the Indian High Commission in Colombo. Sessions were hosted at some of India’s foremost institutions, including the Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service (SSIFS), the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), and the Press Information Bureau (PIB).
Participants engaged in a wide array of interactive workshops and seminars covering key areas such as media strategy, public diplomacy, digital communication trends, crisis media handling, and press relations in the age of social media. These sessions were led by senior Indian officials, academics, and media experts.
The programme also offered a rich component of experiential learning. Delegates visited the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA), and the Kalinga Stadium, where they gained insight into India’s integrated approach to disaster communication, education outreach, and infrastructure development.
A highlight of the visit was a meeting with the Chief Minister of Odisha, during which discussions centred on fostering stronger cooperation in public information services and strategic communication.
Beyond professional engagement, the Sri Lankan officials were introduced to India’s broader economic landscape, including its rapid strides in digital governance, technological innovation—including developments in artificial intelligence—and public service delivery systems.
Cultural immersion was also part of the agenda, offering participants the opportunity to explore India’s historical landmarks, diverse traditions, and renowned hospitality.
