He further went on to say 'that ecotourism does not need big investments to build star class hotels all over the country but could be developed in small lands belonging to the communities and the government' While commending the contribution rendered by Sri Lanka Ecotourism Foundation (SLEF) in promoting ecotourism in Sri Lanka during past 14 years amidst a lot of difficulties and challenges, he stressed that promoting this form of tourism could establish a healthy and sustainable tourism fabric in Sri Lanka.

The EBD Award Ceremony was organized by Sri Lanka Ecotourism Foundation (SLEF) to award certificates to the16 (sixteen) participants who have successfully completed the Certificate programme.

Mr. Nizam Lantra, EBD Course Director and the Senior Vice-President of SLEF gave an overview of the EBD Programme and informed the gathering that SLEF is the only organization in Sri Lanka which conducts this sort of academic progrmmes to widen the horizons and the knowledge base of Ecotourism. He noted that Sri Lanka Tourism, in appreciating the contribution made by SLEF, has awarded the SLEF the 'Best Initiative for Ecotourism Research, Training & Education' for two consecutive years.

Palitha Gurusinghe, President of Sri Lanka Ecotourism Foundation thanked Mr. Samarnayake for his untiring efforts in promoting tourism education in Sri Lanka. Because of his efforts and dedication, Sri Lanka tourism and others could conduct many educational programmes today at the present Hotel School Building, built in this prime location, when he was the Chairman of Sri Lanka Tourist Board. Palitha also recollected his memories in the student's movement in early '60s and fondly remembered his association with the late Dharmasiri Senanayake, former Minister of Tourism and one time Chairman of Sri Lanka Tourist Board, who was a close friend of Mr. Samaranayake, both ardent promoters of Ecotourism Sri Lanka.

Ms. Arosha Jayasundara, EBD Participant who topped the list at the final examination, proposed the vote of thanks.