About Our Association
Building connections through knowledge, friendship and cooperation. The association has contributed to community welfare, professional networking and stronger relations between Sri Lanka and Japan.
Our History
The concept of forming an association for those who received training in Japan under the OTCA program originated from two visionary Sri Lankan trainees Mr. K.H.S. Gunathilake and Mr. L.F.C. Ranasinghe (fondly known as “Dinty”). While undergoing training in Tokyo during 1970/1971, they discussed the potential of creating an alumni network. Upon returning to Sri Lanka, they held several discussions to formalize the plan. On 7th December 1971, a key meeting was held with Mr.Fukushima of OTCA, who was on assignment in Sri Lanka. They also met Mr. Date of the Japanese Embassy, who expressed his full support for establishing the Association. At this preliminary gathering, Mr. K.H.S. Gunathilake was appointed President Pro-Tem, and Mr. Ranasinghe as Secretary. The inaugural meeting of the OTCA Alumni Association was held on 22nd April 1972 at 5:00 p.m. at the official residence of His Excellency Mr. Sashichiro Matsui, then Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, located at No. 20, Queen’s Road, Colombo 7. Ninety alumni participated in this historic event.In his welcome address, Mr. Gunathilake thanked the Ambassador for graciously hosting the meeting and emphasized the members’ strong desire to form the Alumni Association. He proposed the adoption of a formal constitution to provide a framework for operations. The draft constitution was unanimously accepted, with a commitment to introduce future amendments as necessary. Ambassador Matsui accepted the formal invitation to be the Patron of the Association. The founder Chairman of the Association was late Deshamanya Dr. P. R. Anthonis.
Our Vision
To be a leading platform that connects JICA alumni, fostering professional growth, cultural exchange, and sustainable development in Sri Lanka.
Our Mission
To strengthen the bonds among JICA alumni in Sri Lanka and contribute to the development of our nation through knowledge sharing, networking, and collaborative initiatives.
Our Objectives
- Provide a forum to promote a spirit of fellowship among Members .
- Promote and foster cultural ties between Sri Lanka and Japan.
- Advise Sri Lankan participants proceeding to Japan.
- Assist members to maintain contact with developments in science and technology in Japan and Sri Lanka.
- Engage in social service activities beneficial to the community.
- Cooperate with or obtain assistance from organisations and individuals, as may be appropriate, to further the objectives of the Association.
Our Activities
The association has conducted community health programmes, blood donation campaigns, scholarships, educational activities and other social service initiatives.