Melwa, one of Sri Lanka’s leading steel manufacturers and engineering solutions providers, partnered with the Institution of Engineers, Sri Lanka (IESL) to support the WiNE Forum 2026, held in celebration of International Women in Engineering Day.
The initiative highlighted the increasing contribution of women to Sri Lanka’s engineering sector while promoting greater participation of women in engineering, innovation, and entrepreneurship. The forum brought together school students, engineering undergraduates, academics, and industry professionals for a day dedicated to knowledge sharing, networking, and leadership development.
The programme featured three specialised sessions aimed at inspiring future engineers and strengthening collaboration across the industry. The morning sessions focused on school students and university undergraduates, providing insights into engineering career pathways and sharing practical experiences from professionals in the field.
The evening forum provided a platform for women engineers, corporate leaders, and industry stakeholders to discuss the evolving role of women in engineering and explore opportunities to create a more inclusive and diverse professional landscape.
A key highlight of the event was the panel discussion titled “Engineering a Resilient Future: Leadership Insights From Women Shaping Tomorrow.” The session featured Romali Tudawe, Executive Director and CEO of Tudawe Brothers; Shehana Brahmanage, Executive Director of Prime Group; Professor Lidula Widhanagamage Aarachchige of the University of Moratuwa; and Eng. Tharangika Jayasundara, Assistant General Manager of CECB.
Moderated by Professor Niranjanie Ratnayake, the discussion explored important themes including leadership, resilience, innovation, and the importance of strengthening diversity within Sri Lanka’s engineering profession.
Commenting on the initiative, Melwa stated that its support for the WiNE Forum reflects the company’s broader commitment to nurturing engineering talent, encouraging professional development, and creating opportunities for the next generation of engineers.
Through initiatives such as WiNE Forum 2026, Melwa continues to support efforts that empower women, promote inclusivity, and contribute to the future growth of Sri Lanka’s engineering and industrial sectors.
Hayleys Solar Commissions 90 kW Solar Power System at University of Colombo Faculty of Medicine
Hayleys Solar, Sri Lanka’s leading renewable energy solutions provider, has successfully commissioned and handed over a 90 kW rooftop solar power system to the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, marking a significant step towards strengthening clean energy adoption within Sri Lanka’s higher education sector.
The initiative, launched by the Old Boys’ Association of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, highlights the important role alumni networks can play in supporting institutional growth, sustainability, and long-term development.
The newly installed solar system will contribute significantly towards meeting the faculty’s daily electricity requirements by reducing dependence on conventional grid power, improving energy efficiency, and lowering its overall carbon footprint.
Commenting on the project, Roshane Perera, Deputy Managing Director – Energy, Hayleys Fentons Limited, said: “As Sri Lanka continues its journey towards a more sustainable energy future, initiatives such as this demonstrate the growing importance of renewable energy adoption across key sectors. Educational institutions play a vital role in shaping future generations, and integrating clean energy solutions into their operations creates a lasting impact beyond energy savings. At Hayleys Solar, we are proud to support institutions such as the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, in achieving greater energy independence while contributing towards the country’s renewable energy goals.”
As educational institutions increasingly focus on sustainable resource management, the Faculty of Medicine’s transition towards renewable energy serves as an important example of environmentally responsible campus development in Sri Lanka.
The solar project delivers both financial and environmental benefits by helping reduce operational electricity costs while contributing to long-term reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Through this initiative, Hayleys Solar continues to support Sri Lanka’s renewable energy transformation by enabling organisations to adopt cleaner, more efficient energy solutions.
Melwa Partners with IESL to Empower Women Engineers Through WiNE Forum 2026
