It is with profound pride, humility, and gratitude that I accept the honour of serving as the 89^th President of the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon (IChemC). This is not merely a personal distinction but a solemn responsibility to lead an institution that has played a pivotal role in advancing chemical sciences and developing generations of professional chemists in Sri Lanka. The Institute’s enduring mission is reflected in its contributions to education, research, industry, and professional standards. These interconnected areas form the foundation of our service to the nation. The theme for my presidency, “Chemistry: A Catalyst for National Development,” is built on three interconnected pillars:

• Education – to develop competent, innovative, adaptable, and ethically responsible chemists with strong scientific foundations and professional confidence.
• Research – to generate knowledge and practical solutions to national challenges in areas such as environmental protection, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, water purification, food safety, and healthcare, while strengthening research partnerships and international visibility.
• Industry Collaboration – to translate scientific knowledge into economic and social benefits through stronger partnerships, joint research, internships, innovation, and sustainable chemical technologies.

When these three pillars work together, chemistry becomes a powerful driver of national development. Our vision is to produce graduates who can contribute meaningfully to society while expanding new academic pathways and opportunities for future generations. As the country’s only professional body for professional chemists, IChemC must also strengthen the recognition and value of the Chartered Chemist designation as a symbol of competence, integrity, and professional excellence. We should continue to position the Institute as a trusted scientific advisor on matters of national importance. This vision cannot be achieved by one individual or one Council alone. It requires the collective commitment of our Fellows, members, academic staff, researchers, industrial chemists, students, and all who believe in the transformative power of chemistry. I invite each of you to join me in building a stronger, more dynamic, and more relevant Institute. Together, let us harness the power of chemistry to drive innovation, strengthen our nation, and create a better future for generations to come.

 

Professor Emeritus A. D. L. C. Perera

PhD (Tokyo Science University), MSc (Tokyo Science University), BSc Hon (University of Peradeniya),
C.Chem., F.I.Chem.C, FNASSL
President, Institute of Chemistry Ceylon
Emeritus Professor, Department of Chemistry, University of Peradeniya