The International Convention on Quality Control Circles (ICQCC) 2024, organized by the Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Quality and Productivity (SLAAQP), concluded successfully on November 11-13, 2024, at the BMICH and Mount Lavinia Hotel in Colombo.

The three-day convention, held under the theme "Beyond Boundaries: A Quest for Quality," highlighted Sri Lanka's commitment to excellence across diverse sectors. The event attracted a significant turnout of delegates from 14 member countries, including Japan, China, India, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Mauritius, Bangladesh, Korea, and Singapore, representing an unprecedented opportunity for Sri Lankan companies to network and learn from global leaders in quality management.

The convention commenced with a Business Forum and International Research Conference at Hilton Residencies, followed by the grand inauguration at BMICH and the main proceedings at Mount Lavinia Hotel. The conference featured distinguished speakers, including Prof. Wan Seon Shin, Professor of Systems Management Engineering at Sungkyunkwan University in Korea, who delivered the keynote address on "Open Quality in the Era of Digital Transformation."

"For Sri Lanka, hosting ICQCC 2024 comes at a transformative time as we focus on strengthening our economic foundations and enhancing our global competitiveness. Our comprehensive program features a Business Forum, International Research Conference, and industry visits, designed to foster meaningful exchange of knowledge and best practices. We encourage our international guests to embrace not only professional opportunities but also experience the rich cultural heritage and renowned hospitality of Sri Lanka.

Quality excellence is more than a technical pursuit - it is a mindset that drives innovation, sustains growth, and creates lasting value for our societies. The connections forged and insights shared during these three days will undoubtedly contribute to advancing quality practices across Asia and beyond," commented Prime Minister of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, Harini Amarasuriya, in a message to the attendees.

The second session, held at Mount Lavinia Hotel on November 11 and 12, featured notable attendees including Dr. Surani Dias, President of SLAAQP, and Prof. Wan Seon Shin, as professionals convened for a Round Table on 'Quality Policy for Development.' This was followed by a CCM Meeting, with the attendees gathering for the Closing Ceremony and Gala Dinner.

"The convention's theme, 'Beyond Boundaries: A Quest for Quality, Productivity, and Innovation,' resonates deeply with our mission. The comprehensive program began with the Business Forum and International Research Conference at Hilton Residencies, followed by the grand inauguration at BMICH and main proceedings at Mount Lavinia Hotel, showcasing the breadth of quality initiatives across our region.

We are particularly proud to facilitate knowledge exchange between 14 member countries, including Japan, China, India, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Mauritius, Bangladesh, Korea, and Singapore. This gathering represents an unprecedented opportunity for Sri Lankan companies to network and learn from global leaders in quality management.

SLAAQP's annual National Convention on Quality & Productivity (NCQP), which attracts 400 teams from both private and public sectors, has laid a strong foundation for this international event. Through ICQCC 2024, we aim to elevate these local successes to the global stage while learning from our international counterparts," stated Dr. Surani Dias, President of the Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Quality and Productivity.

Reflecting on the event, Prof. Wan Seon Shin, Professor of Systems Management Engineering at Sungkyunkwan University in Korea, remarked, "Korea has been able to transform its unique approaches to quality and productivity, not just in merchandise and services but across industries like K-pop, healthcare, and cosmetics. In my keynote speech, I will cover three key points: (1) Discover and unpack Korea's Miracle Quality, (2) Reveal the effective approaches and strategies behind this transformation, and (3) Guide you in applying these strategies within your own environment."

The successful conclusion of the convention underscored SLAAQP's crucial role in promoting quality and productivity in Sri Lanka since its establishment in 1989. As a non-profit organization comprising professionals committed to national development, SLAAQP's dedication to advancing quality standards has positioned Sri Lanka as a worthy host for this international gathering, serving as a catalyst for strengthening international cooperation and the cause of quality across the region.

Surani Dias, President of SLAAQP appreciating the council members

Traditional dance act at the ICQCC 2024 Convention

Hemanthi Ranasinghe head of media committee Handing over the gold award to team from Indonesia

President of SLAAQP handing over the ICQCC flag to Taiwan who will be hosting the ICQCC in 2025

Photo caption : From left: SLAAQP Vice President, Dr. Nirmali de Silva, SLAAQP President Dr. Surani Dias, Keynote Speaker, Prof. Wan Seon Shin, SLAAQP Immediate Past President, Wipul Kularatne