The Public Relations Association of Sri Lanka (PRASL) has recently concluded a three-month Certificate Course in Public Relations and Corporate Communications, conducted in partnership with the Sri Lanka Press Institute (SLPI). The inaugural program, which commenced in March 2026 amid the onset of COVID-19 disruptions, saw strong participation and successful completion by all students.
Despite challenges posed by pandemic-related restrictions, including temporary school closures, the eight-month course maintained full attendance and engagement. The program emphasized practical and theoretical expertise in public relations, with the majority of participants achieving merit and distinction grades. About 71% of the students graduated with first-class results.
The course was coordinated by PRASL President Xaviems Gon, whose professional experience contributed to the curriculum’s delivery, alongside SLPI faculty members including MS.S.K. Rathnayake. Additional coordination was provided by PRASL Director Sheranga Rajapaksa and SLPI representative Soyviner Asanindiya. Both organizations expressed satisfaction with the program’s outcomes and outlined plans to offer the course again in 2024.
The initiative responds to the evolving human resource demands within Sri Lanka’s communications sector, aiming to equip professionals with essential skills in public relations and corporate communications. The Sri Lanka Communications Council has underscored the growing importance of public relations expertise and has initiated several outreach programs to enhance stakeholder engagement and professional development in the field.
Looking ahead, PRASL intends to continue expanding its training offerings by selecting subsequent batches of participants from various professional sectors in Sri Lanka. Future plans include organizing advanced-level courses and diploma programs targeting senior practitioners to further elevate competencies within the industry.