Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that the National Photographic Art Society of Sri Lanka is a distinguished institution that has created professional opportunities both locally and internationally for the youth of Sri Lanka.
The Prime Minister made this remark while participating in the 75th Anniversary of the National Photographic Art Society of Sri Lanka and the 21st International Photography Exhibition, held today (05) at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) in Colombo.
During the event, international honorary titles were awarded to outstanding individuals in the field of photography.
Addressing the event, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated:
First of all, I extend my best wishes to the National Photographic Art Society of Sri Lanka, which proudly celebrates its 75th anniversary today.
Although many regard photography as a form of entertainment media, it extends far beyond that being an art form, a medium of communication, and a tool for news dissemination.
Photography is a subject that should be studied thoroughly, and it is embedded in every other discipline like human language. That is why, in 1993, UNESCO included photography among the subjects to be learned in the 21st century.
In the current educational landscape, there are growing enthusiasts worldwide who are eager to study photography.
The National Photographic Art Society of Sri Lanka is a reputed educational and professional institution in Sri Lanka that explores multiple dimensions of photographic art. During the colonial era, when photography was identified as an artistic privilege reserved for foreigners, it was the National Photographic Art Society of Sri Lanka that pioneered efforts to make photography a cultural and artistic heritage accessible to our own children in Sri Lanka.
The journey the Society has undertaken over 75 years is truly remarkable. Over the 75 years, the effort that the National Photographic Art Society has been made by offering education and evaluations, organizing exhibitions, creating numerous local and foreign career opportunities for the Sri Lankan’s youth, and offering certificate, diploma, and professional-level courses aligned with international standards with conducting vocational training completely free of charge as a volunteer-run institution in order to produce skilled, artistic professionals is truly appreciated.
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya further noted that many of today’s distinguished figures in media and cinema began their journeys at the National Photographic Art Society of Sri Lanka.
The event was attended by Colombo Mayor Mrs. Vraie Cally Balthazaar, President of the National Photographic Art Society Mr. Shantha Gunasekara, veteran photographers, academics, and other dignitaries.
Prime Minister’s Media Division