COLOMBO, SEPTEMBER 10, 2026 – The Neertha Law Association officially marked its historic inauguration today, establishing itself as the first independent law association formed outside the general framework in Sri Lanka. The landmark inaugural meeting was hosted at the SailingPen Academy Hall in Nugegoda, a venue deeply intertwined with the institution’s long-standing journey in local legal education.
Originally launched in 2009 with a foundation cohort of just 13 students in Nugegoda and 7 students in Kandy, Neertha Law Academy steadily expanded its footprint across 10 districts, delivering comprehensive legal education in both Sinhala and English. Over the years, the academy built a stellar reputation for pioneering online law education, ensuring wide geographic accessibility for aspiring legal practitioners. Its track record highlights consecutive first-place winners in the Sinhala medium for the Law College Entrance Examination in 2018 and 2019, alongside second and fifth-place distinctions in the English medium in 2019. Furthermore, a decisive majority of successful candidates entering the Open University LLB program have received their foundational training under the Neertha banner.
The Association’s inaugural day proceedings focused heavily on governance, as members cast votes in organizational contests to elect executive leadership roles, including the positions of President, Secretary, and Treasurer.
During the proceedings, Executive Committee Member Palitha Ariyarathna handed over copies of his book The Final Wall to Lawyer Udesh and Mrs. Sajeevani Abeykoon, Director – Law Enforcement at the National Child Protection Authority. Ariyarathna, also the Founder and Chief Editor of Ceylon Watch Freelance Media and author of several books, is recognized for his contributions to legal education and publishing. His work in The Final Wall highlights Article 9, lawyer ethics and discipline, and the limits of government in law reform, themes that resonate with the wider community’s interest in lawful life and the safeguarding of Sri Lanka’s 1.3 million children.
Mrs. Sajeevani Abeykoon also addressed the gathering, delivering a speech on law related to women and children, while emphasizing that the same principles of justice and protection apply equally to men. Her remarks underscored the Association’s commitment to equality and fairness in the legal system.
Looking toward the future, the Association announced the official launch of its digital portal, neerthalaw.org.lk, which will run parallel to the academy’s primary platform, neertha.lk. These synchronized networks will provide the public and legal community with streamlined access to membership registries, upcoming civil activities, and curated legal resources. Today’s historic gathering in Nugegoda signals a transformative chapter for the organization, firmly anchored upon a foundation of academic achievement, community trust, and a progressive vision for the country’s legal landscape.
— Reported by Ceylon Watch Media Editorial Department