For the first time in history, Sri Lanka hosted the South Asian Association of National Scout Organizations (SAANSO) Chief Commissioners’ Conference on 13th August 2025 at the National Headquarters of the Sri Lanka Scout Association, Colombo.
The conference was inaugurated by Hon. Vijitha Herath, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, who attended as the Chief Guest. Among the distinguished international dignitaries present were Mr. David Berg, Secretary General of the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM), Mr. J.R.C. Pangilinan, Regional Director of the Asia-Pacific Support Centre of WOSM, and Mr. Simon Rhee, First Vice Chairperson of the Asia-Pacific Regional Scout Committee. Also in attendance were Ms. Sangye Choden, Chief Commissioner of Bhutan and Chairperson of SAANSO, together with Mr. Janaprith Fernando, Chief Commissioner of the Sri Lanka Scout Association, representing the hosting National Scout Organization.
The conference brought together Chief Commissioners from Bangladesh, India, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, along with SAANSO Advisors.
During the opening ceremony, Minister Herath commended the importance of fostering regional cooperation through Scouting. The WOSM Secretary General praised the rapid growth and development of the Sri Lanka Scout Association (SLSA), while the Asia-Pacific Regional Director highlighted the need for stronger collaboration within South Asia and with the broader Asia-Pacific Region.
Also in attendance were notable dignitaries including the High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Sri Lanka, representatives from the Embassy of Nepal, the President of the Sri Lanka Scout Council, the Sri Lanka Girl Guides Association, the Sri Lanka Navy, United Nations and UNICEF, as well as former Chief Commissioners and senior members of the Council.
The conference aimed to strengthen collaboration among South Asian National Scout Organizations (NSOs), build regional solidarity, and promote a united South Asian presence within the Asia-Pacific Region and the global Scouting movement. The proceedings included national presentations by participating NSOs, where each Chief Commissioner highlighted the achievements of their Scout associations and proposed regional activities for the coming years. These presentations emphasized not only national milestones but also areas where mutual cooperation could bring collective benefits across South Asia.
One of the central areas of discussion focused on the SAANSO Annual Calendar and future initiatives. Delegates deliberated on hosting regional events such as Jamborees and Rover Moots, introducing a new adult recognition framework within SAANSO, launching a regional training team, and even exploring the creation of SAANSO-branded merchandise as a way of promoting identity and visibility.
The second round of discussions addressed SAANSO’s role within the wider Asia-Pacific Region. Leaders stressed the importance of stronger representation for South Asia in Asia-Pacific decision-making processes, deeper collaboration with other sub-regions, and positioning SAANSO as a model platform that embodies partnership, innovation, and shared learning.
Ms. Sangye Choden, Chief Commissioner of Bhutan, served as the Chairperson of SAANSO during the Colombo conference and gracefully completed her term. At the conclusion of the proceedings, new office bearers were elected to carry forward the work of the sub-region.
Mr. Janaprith Fernando, Chief Commissioner of the Sri Lanka Scout Association, was elected as the new Chairperson of SAANSO. Mr. Mohamed Ali Khalid, Additional Chief Commissioner of Bharat Scouts and Guides, was appointed as Secretary General, while Mr. Maeed Zahir, Chief Commissioner of the Maldives Scout Association, was named Treasurer. Dr. Asanka Eriyawa, International Commissioner of the Sri Lanka Scout Association, took office as the Resident Coordinator.
Additionally, Mr. Abdulla Rasheed (Maldives), Mr. Habibul Alam (Bangladesh), and Mr. Madhusudan Avala (India) were appointed as SAANSO Advisors. It was also announced that the next SAANSO Chief Commissioners’ Conference will be hosted by Bharat Scouts and Guides in India, in August 2026.
The Colombo conference concluded with a series of important decisions, followed by a banquet dinner at Oak Ray City Hotel, Colombo, attended by distinguished guests and international delegates.
