Geneva: ‘Smart Drain – Urban Inventors’ of Sri Lanka has been honored with the prestigious World Intellectual Property Organization’s (WIPO) Global Award 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland. ‘Smart Drain’, designed and developed by Dr. Nadeesha Chandrasena and her team, emerged as one of the ten winners celebrated for their world-changing innovations in sectors such as health, climate, agrifood, creative industries, and ICT. The award ceremony took place in Geneva on July 11, 2025, with WIPO Director General Daren Tang presenting the trophies to the distinguished innovators.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Sri Lanka, the WIPO Global Awards recognize startups and Small and Medium Enterprises that have effectively leveraged Intellectual Property to convert their innovations into tangible economic and social impacts. The winners were meticulously selected by a diverse, independent international jury comprised of experts in IP, innovation, the creative industries, investment, and business.

The ‘Smart Dra
ins’ storm water drainage system was recognized for its ability to prevent urban flooding, even when conventional drains are obstructed by waste. This innovative system offers a practical and scalable solution for climate-resilient infrastructure by preventing drain overflow through the separation of solid matter from drain water, allowing for interruption-free operation.

This marks the first time a Sri Lankan invention has received this prestigious award from WIPO. Smart Drain was awarded the trophy under the environment category, with the ten winners chosen from a highly competitive pool of over 800 applicants from 95 countries.