Leveraging Southern Province ๐๐ Ruhunu Tourism Bureauโs Experience to Regulate and Enrich the Future of Tourism in Uva Province ๐๐
The Inter-Provincial Tourism Development Experience Sharing Program 2026 was successfully held on May 5th and 6th, 2026. The program aimed to enrich the newly proposed Uva Province Tourism Authority by sharing the valuable insights, practices, and experiences of the Ruhunu Tourism Bureau, which has been contributing dynamically and systematically to strengthen the tourism sector in the Southern Province.
Mr. Jayan Godakanda, Chairman of the Ruhunu Tourism Bureau, detailed the progress, projects, and operational model of the Bureau. He specifically highlighted the Bureauโs updated strategic plan, which aligns with the current Governmentโs national policy while addressing specific provincial needs.
Mr. Krishantha Mahendra, Secretary to the Southern Province Ministry of Tourism, provided a detailed presentation on the evolution and ordinance of the Ruhunu Tourism Bureau. He also emphasized the attention the Provincial Council must dedicate to tourism as a subject on the Concurrent List, highlighting current challenges and necessary future steps. The delegation of officials from the Uva Province absorbed this knowledge and experience to map out their future direction. Addressing the gathering, the Acting Managing Director of the Bureau outlined ongoing, completed, and proposed projects funded by the Bureau, explaining the practical aspects of sourcing and executing project proposals.
On the second day, a field visit was organized, allowing the delegation to directly observe and experience the projects and establishments managed by the Ruhunu Bureau. Participating in this event, Mr. J.M.U.K. Jayasekara, Secretary to the Uva Province Ministry of Sports and Tourism, noted that sharing experiences through such programs is highly valuable and practical. He expressed his gratitude to the Ruhunu Tourism Bureau for organizing the initiative.
The discussions concluded with an agreement on the necessity of continuing to collaborate, discuss, and share practical experiences across all provinces regarding tourism. The event was attended by officials from both the Southern Province Ruhunu Tourism Bureau and the Uva Province Ministry of Tourism.
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