Organisation of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka: Tower of strength

CELEBRATING a Golden Jubilee marks a remarkable milestone in the journey of any organisation. It is with great pride, honour, and a deep sense of responsibility that I step into the role of President of the Organisation of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka (OPA) during this historic year.

- By Sujeewa Lal Dahanayake

The OPA stands as the apex body representing all professional associations in Sri Lanka. In its uniqueness and distinction, there exists no parallel organisation in the country. As professionals united under the OPA's banner, we carry both strength and responsibility—attributes that define our collective purpose.

Today, the OPA represents 52 professional associations across 34 disciplines, encompassing a vibrant network of over 60,000 professionals throughout the island. Together, we form a unified and dynamic force woven into the very fabric of society, dedicated to shaping a better future for Sri Lanka.

Inspiration for the OPA

The roots of the Organisation of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka (OPA) trace back to 1972, when a group of visionary professionals, inspired by a proposal put forward by John Chadwick—the first Director of the Commonwealth Foundation—embarked on a mission to establish a unified professional body in Sri Lanka. Chadwick had originally floated the idea of creating a collective forum for professional associations during discussions at a Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in 1965. His vision resonated deeply with Sri Lankan professionals who saw the potential of such a platform to elevate the role of professionals in national and Commonwealth affairs.

Dr. Nath Amarakone, a dedicated and far-sighted leader, took the initiative forward, along with several prominent figures including Dr. H.W. Jayawardena, QC—an eminent legal expert, brother of former President J.R. Jayewardene, and first President of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka, which itself celebrates its Golden Jubilee this year. Together with Dr. S.A. Cabraal, W.P. Gunathilake and other leading professionals, they met with Chadwick to further explore and shape this vision into a workable framework for Sri Lanka.