The event took place under the patronage of Deputy Minister of Mass Media Kaushalya Ariyaratne, Colombo District Parliamentarian Samanmali Gunasinghe and SLTB Chairman Sajeewa Kanagaratne.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Minister Ariyaratne described the occasion as a historic day, noting that the appointees had entered the record books as the first officially appointed female conductors of the SLTB. She said the achievement should also be acknowledged with respect to Minister of Transport Bimal Ratnayake, who since assuming office has taken steps to promote gender equality within the transport sector and has shown sensitivity to issues such as harassment faced by women.
She further stated that the appointments were the result of progressive policy decisions as well as the long struggle for women’s rights, adding that it was a matter of pride that women—who were once denied even voting rights—have now reached such positions.
“Every profession was once restricted by gender barriers. Today, those barriers are being broken and women are entering every field. Regardless of the challenges, I urge you to face them with determination. Through that strength, we can build a better country, a better society and a more women-friendly environment,” she said.
Speaking at the ceremony, MP Samanmali Gunasinghe welcomed the new recruits, describing the recruitment of female conductors as the beginning of a new chapter in SLTB history.
“As women, this is a proud moment. Selecting women for such responsibilities beyond traditional social limitations is significant. Women play an immense role in the modern economy, and beyond that, their contribution to society beginning from the home is invaluable,” she said.
She also called on the new appointees to take an active role in helping prevent violence against women, particularly within public transport, while carrying out their professional duties.
Several senior SLTB officials attended the event, including Makumbura Project Director Nalaka Dissanayake, along with a number of distinguished invitees such as veteran actress Chamila Peiris.
