Sri Lankan Teen Selected for Global Space Mission

Sri Lanka has earned a place on the global stage with the selection of 18-year-old Seneesa Goonewardena to represent the nation at the prestigious ShakthiSAT International Mission.

A student of St. Bridget’s Convent Colombo, Goonewardena was chosen after a highly competitive selection process involving 200 students undergoing advanced training under Sri Lanka’s national STEM education program. Her achievement highlights the growing strength of the country’s youth in science and technology.

According to the Ministry of Digital Economy Sri Lanka, her selection marks a significant milestone not only in education but also in international engagement, giving Sri Lanka a valuable platform to showcase its emerging talent in space science and innovation.

The ShakthiSAT program is scheduled to take place from August 22 to 31, 2026, at Gautam Buddha University in India. During the mission, Goonewardena will participate in high-level engagements alongside key global leaders, including the Prime Minister and President of India—highlighting the importance of the initiative on the international stage.

Described as a “transformative global opportunity,” the program aims to nurture innovation, encourage scientific collaboration, and empower the next generation of leaders in space technology.

Seneesa Goonewardena’s achievement stands as an inspiring example of Sri Lanka’s rising potential in STEM fields, reflecting a future where young minds from the island nation contribute meaningfully to global scientific advancement.