The Lanka Microfinance Network (LMFN), Sri Lanka’s largest and most inclusive microfinance network, hosted its flagship annual gathering, the Microfinance Leaders’ Forum 2026, under the theme “An Evening Gathering: Leading Through a Regulated Future”, on Friday, 11 September 2026, at Hotel Clio, Bolgoda.
The event brought together Chief Executive Officers, Board Members and senior management representatives from microfinance institutions across the country, marking a significant gathering for the industry at a time when the sector is preparing to enter a new era of formal regulatory oversight.
Delivering the keynote address on “The Role of CEOs in Leading Institutional Transformation,” Dr. Kishu Gomes urged industry leaders to view the transition toward regulation as an opportunity to enhance governance, strengthen institutions and restore public confidence, rather than as a barrier to growth.
The Forum also featured an address by Mr. Janaka Lakmal, Deputy General Manager of the Credit Information Bureau of Sri Lanka (CRIB), who highlighted the increasing importance of credit information sharing as the microfinance sector moves toward a more structured regulatory environment.
LMFN Secretary Imran Nafeer provided an overview of Sri Lanka’s microfinance sector, tracing its evolution from its early beginnings to its current position. He also shared his perspective on the industry’s future, highlighting the collective responsibilities of CEOs, board members, regulators and other stakeholders in establishing a responsible, sustainable and resilient sector.
Addressing the gathering, LMFN Chairman Danushka Udugama emphasised the importance of viewing regulation and growth as complementary elements of a stronger microfinance industry.
SLIIT and LJMU Launch Dedicated International Learning Facility in Colombo
The Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology (SLIIT) and Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU), UK, have officially inaugurated a dedicated international learning facility in Colombo, marking a new chapter in their decade-long academic partnership.
Located on Dickmans Road, Colombo 04, SLIIT International, in collaboration with LJMU, is Sri Lanka’s first academic facility dedicated exclusively to delivering LJMU degree programmes.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Andrew Patrick, senior representatives from SLIIT and LJMU, the British Council, as well as representatives from academia and industry.
Over the past decade, the partnership has produced more than 1,500 alumni, providing Sri Lankan students with access to internationally recognised UK qualifications without having to study overseas. The new facility is expected to further enhance the student experience while supporting the expansion of academic programmes, research, innovation, academic collaboration and student engagement.
SLIIT Vice-Chancellor, Managing Director and CEO Prof. Lalith Gamage said the new facility would offer students a world-class educational experience while helping them develop a global outlook, critical-thinking abilities and professional competencies.
LJMU Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof. Timothy Nichol described the facility as a significant milestone for the partnership, highlighting the strength of the collaboration between the two institutions.
The event also featured a panel discussion titled “Beyond Borders: The Role of British Higher Education in Developing Globally Competitive Graduates.” The discussion explored opportunities in international education, academic quality, graduate employability and the potential for further expansion of UK degree programmes in Sri Lanka.
LMFN’s Microfinance Leaders’ Forum 2026 Brings Industry Leaders Together to Shape a Regulated Future
