Gamani Corea Foundation (GCF) was set up by the late Dr Gamani Corea on February 10, 2000, as a foundation to take further his passion for development globally, with particular emphasis on Sri Lanka. The GCF is an autonomous non-profit institute that aims to promote development-related economic research, while being open to research from other social sciences, especially from a multi-disciplinary perspective.

Its mission is to contribute to the socio-economic development of Sri Lanka and other low-income and middle-income countries through informed, independent and high-quality research. GCF perceives research as being more than a mere academic exercise; it is primarily a catalyst for the tangible socio-economic transformation of countries and societies.

The Department of Social Studies of the Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL), in collaboration with the Gamani Corea Foundation (GCF), hosted a symposium titled “Beyond the Crisis: Reforming Macroeconomic Policies in Sri Lanka” on Thursday, April 11, 2025. The event was held at the Faculty Board Room of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, OUSL, Nawala. The symposium centered around the recently published book by Prof. Sirimevan Colombage, “Reforming Macroeconomic Policies for Stability and Growth. Prof. Colombage delivered the keynote address, drawing on key arguments and proposals from his book, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive macroeconomic reforms in Sri Lanka. A vibrant panel discussion followed, moderated by Dr. Aturupane, with contributions from Prof. Sirimal Abeyratne, Dr. Roshan Perera, and Dr. R.H.S. Samaratunga. The session concluded with a Q&A segment, moderated by Prof. Neavis Morais. This symposium brought together scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to reflect on Sri Lanka’s economic challenges and explore pathways for sustainable reform beyond the current crisis.

The Freda Corea Awards 2024, held for the second successive year, on April 4th, 2025, at Jasmine Hall BMICH, was a significant event that highlighted the contributions of Sri Lankan women towards family empowerment and national development. Organized by the Gamani Corea Foundation (GCF), the awards celebrated women from low and middle-income backgrounds who have overcome challenges to uplift their families and contribute to the economic growth of Sri Lanka. The competition focused on story writers who showcased the success stories of these women entrepreneurs. Writers were tasked with identifying individuals whose perseverance and achievements in overcoming socio-economic barriers could inspire others. The awards were inclusive, accepting entries in English, Sinhala, and Tamil, ensuring equal opportunity for all Sri Lankan citizens, regardless of age or other factors. In 2024, the competition recognized 18 remarkable women from 3 categories (Entrepreneurship, Family Emancipation & Outstanding Achievements) whose stories were brought to the public’s attention by writers from across the island. The event was graced by Ms. Wanda Kotalawala, the Chief Guest, and Ms. Sriyani Hulugalle, the Guest of Honour, making it an even more prestigious occasion.

The Gamani Corea Foundation (GCF) hosted a seminar on New Perspectives for Economic Development on January 30, 2025, at the Lighthouse Auditorium, bringing together academics, policymakers, and professionals to discuss Sri Lanka’s economic challenges and opportunities. The seminar was based on the GCF publication New Perspectives for Economic Development, which compiles memorial and public lectures delivered by renowned economists and development experts. Key speakers included Prof. Sirimevan Colombage (overview of the book), Dr. Indrajith Coomaraswamy (macroeconomic policy reforms), Dr. Harsha Aturupane (higher education and economic development), Dr. Lloyd Fernando (good governance), and Dr. Sarath Rajapatirana (balancing imports and exports for sustainable growth). The event concluded with a Q&A session moderated by Mr. Ravinatha P. Aryasinha, fostering a dynamic discussion on economic policy reforms and governance. The seminar attracted participants from academia, government, and the private sector. The book is available to purchase at Gamani Corea Foundation.