Absence of religion cause of slide in education

Extracts from the speech given by chief guest at the prize giving of St. Benedict's College, Kotahena, the Archbishop of Colombo, Rt. Rev. Dr. Oswald Gomis.

It with profound disappointment we have to confess that in the Sri Lankan education system the essential ingredients have become anachronistic. We live in a society that has a completely different value system. Many sociologists have tried to analyse the cause of this decay and most of them blame the open economy policy and unbridled economic freedom. There are others who blame the mass media. But it is the firm conviction of others that it is the breakdown of religious education that is the root cause of all this.

Some of the elders would well remember the tremendous opposition we showed to the take over of denominational schools. Though various motives were attributed to us at the time, and most of these very maliciously, the basic reason for our opposition was the fear that state control of schools would eliminate religious education in our schools.

Today our worst fears are confirmed. I must emphasise that religious education (whatever the religion be) is not just an infusion of knowledge of that religion. It is much more. It is basically a formation of the child to live according to the precepts of the religion he accepts and professes as true. And this is not purely an intellectual exercise but a matter that needs practical experience. It is something like driving vehicles. You can have the knowledge of driving through a book, but you need to practice driving to be able to go on the roads.

Today the whole fabric of our religious education is reduced to a matter of a period or two in the state run schools. Religion is made a compulsory subject for the examinations. But all this remains in the realm of knowledge. Where is the formation? We are fortunate with the few private schools we have but what of all the other schools that have been vested? Worst still we often sadly note children being compelled to study other religions, much against their wish, simply because they have to offer 'religion' as a subject to succeed at the examination.

Thus for the children it becomes one religion in school and another at home. Naturally, children are confused and they know not what religion to follow. The net result is that we are producing men and women who have no religious convictions. And they easily fall prey to the allurements of wealth, power and lust. So for someone to change his or her religion for the sake of political power or to play a duplicitous role in religion to deceive the public is not a wonder.

If today people who profess to be adherents of religion truly practice the precepts of their religions how could there be a world currently, where 1.2 billion people live on less than one dollar a day and some 40,000 people die every day from hunger related causes? The other factor is that 20% of the world's population consumes 85% of the world's income while the remaining 80% live on 15% with the bottom 20% living on 1.3%.

It is most alarming to know that the three richest persons on this earth have more wealth than the combined GDP of the 47 poorest countries. Most of this comes from countries that have relegated religion to their antiques' cupboard.

Either because of blatant envy or because of our insatiable desire always to ape the West we have also gone for a system of education that has virtually neutralised religious education in our schools. And we have seen the result of it now for nearly half a century and if experience teaches us anything it is time that we rethink this whole problem before we fall into the abyss, if we have not already fallen into it.

I wish to emphasize that if we hope to restore religion, morals and our culture we should restore religious education in our schools and make it meaningful and effective. This is not going to be achieved by just having a period or two of religious instruction in the school. It is imperative that religious education and formation be entrusted to the religious leaders of the respective schools rather than leave it in the hands of bureaucrats for whom religion is just another subject in the list.

We have had very good schools that were governed by the respective religious denominations. Unfortunately, these today are no more. That religious background and atmosphere is lost. They are totally secularised and naturally the products that are turned out of these schools are also of the same secular mentality. Therefore I appeal to all our religious leaders who are interested in education and the transformation of our society to consider this tragedy seriously. If they are thinking of transforming society they should begin at the base and reform education first.

Today we are involved in mutually attacking each other and trying to blame the past. It would be far better for us to think more positively, to live in the present and work realistically for a better future.

We cannot ignore nor close our eyes to the massive feed our children get from television and other media channels. Neither is it possible to shut the children altogether from all these influences. Our effort should rather be to train and educate them to face these challenges with knowledge and courage, giving them a good religious foundation.

Oxford College - a trusted partner in education

Out of the most prestigious institutes of higher education in Sri Lanka, Oxford College has achieved success in a relatively short period of time. The aspects that contributed in achieving this position have been the commitment, efficiency and quality and standards maintained in delivering internationally recognised qualifications.

Oxford College of Business, which is registered under the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission is also affiliated to and maintains connections at the highest level with higher educational institutes worldwide. Among such prestigious institutes are Association of Business Executives - UK, Australian Institute of Business Administration, St. Patrick's College - UK, and University of Worcester - UK among others.

Oxford College has earned an outstanding reputation for its English language training courses.  In particular the Total Immersion in English course is very popular among the G.C.E (O/L) and G.C.E (A/L)  students and those awaiting employment opportunities.  The student-centred interactive methodology used with a practical orientation ensures that students reap the full benefits of the course. 

A  notable feature of the course is that the students are categorized according to their standard of English, based on a placement test. Classes are composed of Groups of twenty five formed on the results of the placement test. Students who successfully complete this course become eligible to follow the Certificate in English and Diploma in English courses.

The Oxford College of  Business  is a leader in  IELTS training, with a very large number of students producing excellent results. IELTS training has been provided by the college from its inception and classes are conducted on weekends and weekdays at the head office and its branches at Matara and Kandy.

Oxford offers the unique opportunity of completing a highly recognised Australian MBA in Sri Lanka, to its ABE students. ABE is a membership awarding body offering QCA accredited qualifications. ABE is recognised as the qualification of choice for employers and aspiring business professionals around the world. The new Human Resource Management programme is a professional QCA accredited qualification. At present demand for trained and qualified HR professionals is exceeding supply. Oxford has produced the only two world prize winners for the ABE June 2008 examination.

The certificate gives one a solid basis in Business Management and HRM. The Advanced Diploma focuses on strategic areas of Management/ HRM.

Advanced Diploma holders can also fast track to the final year of many Bachelors Degree programmes. Advanced Diploma holders with relevant work experience can fast track directly to a Masters Degree at a selection of universities.    

Generally, to pass out as a graduate a student has to first pass the GCE O/L examination, then the A/L and spend another three to four years in a government university. But under an innovative education system introduced by Oxford College, a student who has passed the O/L exam can aspire to become a Business Administration Degree holder within three years.

Initially students have to successfully complete the ABE -Certificate level course and then move on to the Diploma stage 1 and 2 and next to the Advanced Diploma course. This whole process can be completed within a relatively short duration of two years.

Students who successfully complete Phase 3 become professional members of the Association of Business Executives, United Kingdom. Thereby, they acquire the required qualification to sit for the degree finals in many universities either in Sri Lanka or overseas. Oxford College is also partnering with University of Worcester, UK and St. Patrick's College - UK  in promoting ABE students for the final year of the Bachelors Degree.

One way to kick start a career is to take a Masters of Business Administration (MBA). Oxford now offers the unique opportunity of obtaining a highly recognised Australian MBA in Sri Lanka, to its ABE students. ABE has secured an exclusive deal that will make an Australian MBA highly accessible and affordable for ABE graduates.

ABE Advanced Diploma holders can be granted entry into the first stage of the AIBA MBA. One can complete the MBA in 12 months or three years, depending on work and lifestyle demands and Oxford also offers monthly entry to ensure flexibility.

In the fiercely competitive professional business world, a globally recognised and respected qualification can pave the path for accelerated career advancement. Choosing the right course at the right place is therefore, a major challenge for aspiring and ambitious young men and women. The Business Management Programme and the HRM programme of the Association of Business Executives, UK, stand out as a beacon of light showing a bright career path for thousands of people around the globe.

Schols for teachers

The Indian government has offered scholarships to 41 Sri Lankan government school teachers to undergo a special English training course at the reputed English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU) in Hyderabad.

Under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme, the teachers will be fully sponsored for the three-month course and will be expected to return home to work as master trainers in the government education sector.

"The government of India is very happy to partner Sri Lanka in this far-reaching presidential initiative to upgrade the level of English education in this country. It is a well-conceived and designed initiative," said Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Alok Prasad. He said that the Indian government was also assisting in establishing an English language school at Peradeniya.

Staying on the fast track with higher education at APIIT

Higher education is the single most important contributor to success in life. Higher education leads to better careers and higher earnings. Numerous studies have demonstrated again and again that graduates earn several times more than non-graduates.

Not surprisingly, millions of students all over the world pursue higher studies. It has been estimated that there will be 150 million students in higher education by the year 2010. In Sri Lanka too a large number of students aspire to university education. Unfortunately, opportunities for higher education in Sri Lanka are very limited. Less than 3% of students enroll in university education in Sri Lanka whereas the enrolment rate in most developed countries exceeds 50 %.

Nonetheless, a large number of students go through the Advanced Level programme that prepares students for university entrance. At the end, only a fraction gets selected to university leaving a couple of hundred-thousand students stranded. Thus, at the end of two years of intense A/L study, the vast majority is not permitted in the higher seats of learning; nor are they prepared for employment.

Identifying the limited capacity for higher education in the state sector, APIIT, a leading higher education institution in the country, provides opportunities for A/L qualified students to enroll in globally recognised British degree programmes. Students who possess two A/L passes could secure enrollment in IT or Business Management degree programmes conducted at the APIIT City Campus in Colombo and, on completion of three years of study, they would receive their degrees from Staffordshire University, UK. 

Three intakes per year allow students to enter higher education as soon as they are ready without wasting precious time. For example, students sitting the A/L examination these days may join the September 2008 intake pending results in a seamless transfer from high school to university.

Interestingly, APIIT has come up with a novel approach to provide a fast-track route to higher education for Ordinary Level qualified students. This is through a comprehensive pre-university Foundation Programme of eight-months duration.  The APIIT Foundation Programme is designed to prepare students specifically for the degree programmes offered at its City Campus in Colombo. 

The programme equips students with IT and mathematical skills, communication skills and general study skills in addition to prerequisite subject knowledge demanded by the degree programmes. At a time when students are required to acquire qualifications at an increasingly younger age, the APIIT Foundation Programme gives O/L students a head start in higher education.

Staffordshire University is amongst the leading UK universities which offer their degree programmes in Sri Lanka. Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) in the UK has rated Staffordshire University's teaching and learning methods as "Excellent."  The university was awarded the Best Teacher Training Award in 2003 and was adjudged as the best new university by computing employees in 2005.

Over 5,000 overseas students study for Staffordshire University programmes in China, Malaysia, Singapore, Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka and many EU countries. Approximately 900 students studying at the APIIT City Campus in Colombo form part of this international student community.

APIIT-Sri Lanka has established a long-standing collaboration with Staffordshire University. Since its inauguration in the year 2000, APIIT-Sri Lanka has been offering programmes in partnership with Staffordshire University. Students who join APIIT programmes have the option of continuing their education and completing the degree at APIIT in Sri Lanka or transferring to Staffordshire University in the UK.

Further, students have the option to transfer to one of many other affiliated universities in the UK and Australia.  Students who continue to follow the Staffordshire University programmes at APIIT will receive the internal degree certificate of Staffordshire University.

APIIT has earned a reputation for providing higher education programmes of high standard and learning opportunities of high quality.  APIIT teaching and learning facilities are considered as the best in the country. The state-of-the-art facilities and the panel of highly qualified and dedicated lecturers provide guidance and support to the students to perform to their full potential. In addition to its full-time lecturers, industry experts are also drawn in to share their experience to keep students abreast of current trends and advancements in the corporate sector.

In view of the outstanding resources available for education and the robust student support services, student attainment is high. Over 80% of APIIT students have obtained first or second class upper degrees in the past. Study programmes at APIIT are constantly revised and reviewed to meet global standards and trends.

Consequently, students find employment immediately after graduation with high profile placements in the industry. Further, feedback from the industry attests that APIIT graduates are most effective in employment.

APIIT is not only about higher education. Students are encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities too. Student Activity Club at APIIT comprises several committees and clubs for students to participate in numerous recreational activities, to contribute to community development and to improve their leadership and team working skills. Further, social and cultural activities are organised to develop socio-cultural harmony.

With its strong international relations, global standards and single-minded focus on quality in higher education, APIIT has emerged as the higher education institute of choice to achieve one's dreams and career goals. APIIT is pleased to invite prospective students, including those with pending results, to visit the City Campus at Union Place, Colombo 2. APIIT City Campus is open on weekdays from 8.30 am to 5 pm and on Saturdays from 8.30 am to 1 pm. You may also call Senani, Kanchana, Upeka or Jayan on 2675060 or visit APIIT web site (www.apiit.edu.lk) for more information.

CIMA focuses on sustainability-

Martin Bennett, Reader in Financial Management at University of Gloucestershire Business School and immediate past president of the Environmental Management Accounting Network - Europe was in Sri Lanka recently invited by CIMA to host a workshop called Sustainability: The Business Case.

According to one CIMA official, in recent years many companies have become increasingly aware of the pressures being imposed on the natural environment and the risk that much of the current industrial and commercial activity may not be sustainable indefinitely; this accompanied by a growing concern for wider aspects of sustainability and in particular companies' impacts on the many stakeholders on whom they depend.

Many companies have therefore realised that for long-term survival and prosperity it is no longer sufficient to monitor and report only traditional performance indicators, but also to focus on the "triple bottom line" - environmental, social and economic performance. 

Companies are not only voluntarily publishing external reports on their environmental and sustainability performance but also adapting internal management processes.

Participants stood to gain much from this workshop including an understanding of the implications of environmental and sustainability issues for business, an awareness of several examples of best practice developed by leading companies internationally and an understanding of how many management accounting techniques can be adapted in order to help manage environmental and sustainability issues

Martin Bennett spoke to The Sunday Leader about the programme and its objectives.  According to Bennett there is a role for management accountants to contribute to their companies' environmental and sustainability performance and to adapt mainstream financial management in order to reflect the effects of increasingly pressing environmental and sustainability constraints on business. 

Talking about the workshop Bennett said, "It's about sustainability. Essentially, what it means for businesses and how accountants can help their businesses to respond."

Explaining the benefits that participants would gain Bennett stated that of those who took part, half were management accountants and the rest work very closely with accounting functions and all of them will be able to take back ideas to their companies to reduce environmental impact and improve sustainability in other ways.

He added that Sri Lanka seems to be ready for such initiatives. He said, "From the research I've done and the people I've spoken to, there seems to be much support from the government and much public interest in going green. And in a developing country such as Sri Lanka this sort of thing only gives them better opportunities with foreign investors and gives them an edge over developed countries that are not as keen on taking on these initiatives."

Talking about how management accountants can contribute to their companies' green initiatives, Bennett said, "By providing the sort of information that can maximise efficiency and knowing where the waste and losses are occurring. On a long-term basis they would be able to help their company make better investments and other strategic decisions with long-lasting effects such as in the design of new products and services."

Launch of acbt/ecu mba alumi

The ACBT/ECU MBA Alumni was launched with a cocktail party at 1864, Galle Face Regency Hotel on August 21.

ACBT commenced the Master of Business Administration (International) programme in October 2004.  ACBT is the only Sri Lankan based institution to offer a fully accredited Australian MBA programme in Colombo.

The college delivers the programme on behalf of Edith Cowan University (ECU) located in Perth, Western Australia. ECU is Western Australia's second largest university with almost 23,000 students. It is also well known as a responsive and forward-thinking institution and an Australian leader in the provision of professionally focused undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes. 

The ECU MBA programmes have consistently high rankings from the Australian Good University Guide. In 2007, the MBA programme received a four star rating for overall educational experience, teaching quality and entry flexibility.

Associate Professor Gary Chittick, director of graduate programmes at ECU believes the success of the MBA programme is attributable to the practicable and applied learning nature of the programme.

"The programme incorporates a thorough grounding in the key areas of management. It also provides an international strategic business perspective which focuses on the competitive advantage of the enterprise.  Upon completion, graduates will have the knowledge base and management skills required for successful operation of international businesses... as well as the ability to lead and manage effectively in a cross-cultural environment."

Graduates from the MBA programme hold a number of senior management positions in some of Sri Lanka's largest corporations. Among them are Brandix, Deutsche Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, Nations Trust Bank, MediGain, Hayleys, Unvilever, Citibank, Janashakti Insurance, SriLankan Airlines, Ogilvy Action, and GlaxoSmithKline.

The academic staff engaged in programme delivery all have postgraduate qualifications, considerable academic experience, strong industry links and approval from ECU to lecture in the programme.

"I highly recommend the Edith Cowan University MBA (International) programme. The knowledge and skills I gained from the MBA have served me well in my career development. It is indeed a lifetime experience," noted Dasitha Gajanayake, an MBA graduate.

Eagle seminar on 'How to develop a brighter child'

Eagle Insurance PLC recently conducted a special seminar for parents at St Mary's Convent Matara. Senior Lecturer, University of Colombo, Daya Rohana Athukorala educated the audience of over 650 parents on 'How to develop a brighter child.' This series of seminars is part of Eagle's comprehensive CSR endeavours and are conducted regionally and cover a wide range of contemporary topics designed to help individuals at each stage of their life.

Fourth convocation of British College of Applied Studies

The British College of Applied Studies (BCAS) witnessed its fourth grand convocation on August 19. BCAS has positioned itself as a leading higher educational and vocational training centre providing courses for students with internationally recognised qualifications.

More than 300 students from all faculties received their certificates and special awards at the BMICH in Colombo.  Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion, Sarath Amunugama was the chief guest at the function while Senior Lecturer, School of Engineering and Built Environment of the University  of Wolver Hampton UK, Dr. Ezekiel Chinyio was the guest of honour and delivered the keynote address.

The students who had completed their courses in 2007/2008 graduated in the fields of Computing, Software Engineering, Business Information Technology, Quantity Surveying, Tourism and Hospitality Management. Those who had completed short courses like CAD and Building Studies, Access Programme, English and Teacher Training were also recognised at the function for their performance in the relevant fields.

According to the University Grants Commission, every year, out of the 500,000 thousand GCE O/L candidates, approximately 200,000 become eligible for A/Levels. Of this figure around 100,000 students are eligible for university education but only about 16,000 get the opportunity of entering the state universities. Of this number, only one sixth of the students get selected for highly sought after fields like Medicine, Computer Science, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, Management, and Accounting. Accordingly, the local higher education paths enable only a small percentage of the students sitting the GCE O/L examination to attain their career goals. This is indeed a deplorable state of affairs.

New trends in higher education

It could be observed that the field of higher education in Sri Lanka has moved away from the usual formula of overseas qualifications or a technical education that can ensure ready employment.  This backdrop has made the parents and students move from the traditional highly competitive paths of higher education to more solid and productive paths to complete higher education abroad in a comparatively shorter period of time.

Receiving an education overseas has many advantages, such as high international recognition, lucrative employment opportunities, and exemptions to finish the degree in a shorter period and so on and so forth. At the same time, there are certain impediments and practical problems like funding and strict visa procedures.

Innovative study programmes

This is where the British College comes to your rescue. Without having to spend two years doing A/Ls, British College affords a valuable opportunity for an overseas education with your O/Levels.  In the past nine years, more than 1200 students have found placements in overseas universities after receiving training from British College of Applied Studies. Now BCAS is able to provide a good part of the degree education right here in Sri Lanka facilitating the student to receive a scholarship to finish her/her final part at one of the prestigious overseas universities.

In Sri Lanka, BCAS is the only institution that provides suitable technical courses to enable students to get well-paid jobs in the emerging construction industry in the Middle East. BCAS is one of the leading higher education providers in Sri Lanka approved by the largest examinations and qualifications body Edexel, UK which also delivers foundation programmes known as ACCESS, Link, and MEC to O/L students aiming for a degree or entrance qualification for technical education.

This foundation course which could be completed in four months, trains the students in Computing, Mathematics and Management along with an intensive course in English. At the end students are entitled to a set of three or six different certificates. Thus qualified, students can start in Sri Lanka itself their BSc (Hons) degree from any other international universities in the fields of Computing, Business Information Technology, Software Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Business Management or Hospitality Management.

By completing the four semesters (16/18 months) at British College, students become entitled to BTEC HND qualification awarded by Edexcel, UK. This qualification is accepted straightaway for year 3 entry (top-up) for BSc in 105 universities in the UK, USA, New Zealand and Australia.  

It is a rare opportunity for those with O/L qualification to earn an internationally recognised degree in two and half years at an affordable cost while being guaranteed a visa for higher education in these countries.

Guaranteed jobs

Not all the students completing O-Levels have the desire to continue higher education.  Still others do not have the finance and facilities to go for higher education. Therefore a very many of these two categories of O/L qualified students opt for employment.  Sadly in the competitive job market, it is not easy to find a job with O/L qualifications.  BCAS has been providing the required qualifications and skills through tailor-made courses for the technical jobs in the booming construction industry in the Middle East.

The full time course CAD and BS (Computer Aided Design and Building Studies) which is of six-month duration gives the students a sound footing to find immediate employment as CAD operators or technical officers in the construction sites in the Middle Eastern countries. Those who have successfully  completed this course have found ready placements in the Middle East and are receiving a salary of not less than Rs 60,000.

Professional Diploma in Land Surveying Technology is yet another job oriented programme with a duration of nine months. This course is designed to train students to use and handle the latest computer software and modern gadgetry used in land surveying. This qualification enables students to find jobs in land-surveying with a salary of not less than Rs 100,000.  It is worth mentioning here that British College of Applied Studies is the only place in Sri Lanka where these valuable study programmes come with a job guarantee.

Hospitality Management

The fastest growing lucrative employment market in the world is the tourism and hospitality industry.  The British College offers an international BA (Hons) Degree in Hospitality Management in collaboration with the London Hotel School UK . Yet again, it is the British College that has introduced this degree programme in Sri Lanka for the first time.

It is a two-tiered programme involving six months of theory in Sri Lanka and six months theory + 12 months  paid job at star class hotels in UK.  The special features of this programme are international exposure and earning while studying.  At the end of the course, the student will be equipped with a valuable degree and a guarantee of lucrative and satisfying job placement.

International recognition:

The collaborative relationships maintained with foreign universities and examination bodies are evidence of the quality and standard of the courses run and delivered by the British College of Applied Studies.  Edexcel UK, ICDL Asia Pacific, and College of Central London have recognised the courses of BCAS. 

At the same time, University of Wolverhampton, Northumbria University, University of Bedfordshire , London Hotel School and Nanyang Institute of Management, Singapore are the prestigious institutions that have close academic links with BCAS, enabling the students to transfer to various degree courses in the UK and Singapore.

PIM Alumni conducts career guidance at Ruhuna University

The alumni of the Postgraduate Institute of Management (PIM) concluded its second CSR programme on career guidance at the Faculty of Science, Ruhuna University recently. Under the theme "Discover the Winner in You" the programme offered valuable insights on how to embark on a successful career path for undergraduate students of the university. The resource persons of the programme were MBA graduates of PIM.

The programme was well attended by over 350 students from the faculties of Arts, Management and Science. The Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof.  Gamini Senanayake, Dean of the Faculty of Science, Dr. P. Jayantha, Prof. W.D.G. Dharmaratne, and Chaminda Kumara of the Ruhuna University and the Executive Committee of the PIM Alumni were in attendance.

Deepal Sooriyaarachchi speaking on the success factors to cultivate the winning seeds shared his personal experience on climbing the corporate ladder, starting from humble beginnings to what he is today. 

Jayamini Samaratunge guided the students on identifying and removing the barriers in the path to success. She offered a new experience for many students who attended the programme on Neuro Linguistic Programming. Many expressed interest in making use of the learning for their personal career development.

Samanthi Bandula took the stand to address the audience on the 'Winning Attitude.' "I recruit people for their attitude and train for skills," was her entry comment. Her delivery was based on cultivating the right attitude to be successful in the workplace.

Sithmini Perera discussed the importance of personal branding and grooming. She touched on the importance of a strong personal brand image for one's success, particularly to stand out in the competitive job market. Wrapping up the session Dharshana Ranatunge took the audience by storm when he shared some keys on how to become a successful entrepreneur.

Showcasing an invention of a student from the Ruhuna University; an iron which operates on censors, Ranatunge commented on the importance of new inventions and encouraged students to pursue that path.

R.M. Indeewara Dilkushan, the secretary of the Inventors' and Innovations Society, Faculty of Science commenting on the programme said that it was the first time a large gathering of students have remained in a lecture hall for so long. "I am sure it is because you realised the value of this programme that you sacrificed your Saturday to be here," he noted.

Dr. P. Jayantha, the Dean of the University of Ruhuna thanked the organisers for a job well done. "We were never offered such valuable knowledge and guidance in our day. This is indeed something these students can make use of towards a successful future." he said.

The successful completion of the career guidance programme put into practice the philosophy and vision of the PIMA; Be the nation's thought leaders. It will continue to travel the outskirts of Sri Lanka offering careers guidance to tomorrow's thought leaders of this country.

Skills committed to vocational training

Skills International (Pvt) Limited is a multidisciplinary organisation delivering skills development programmes in a variety of Technical Skills, Business Support Skills and Language Skills and provides comprehensive and integrated consultancy services in a number of fields.

The organisation derives its strength through its partnership with world renowned educational and testing giants from the US and UK. It is the implementation partner and examination centre for City & Guilds (UK) and the Official Preferred Vendor for Educational Testing Services (USA) in Sri Lanka.

City & Guilds (UK) is the world's foremost vocational qualification awarding body accounting for over one million certifications annually in over 102 countries. City & Guilds has unrivalled expertise in understanding the needs of commerce and industry and successfully translating these into relevant qualifications with meaningful assessment.

ETS is the global assessment leader and is known world over for TOEFL, GRE, SAT, and TOEIC. They have a global presence in over 150 countries assessing 15 million individuals annually. ETS training tools are currently widely used in multi nationals such as PriceWaterhouseCoopers Brazil, Coca Cola, Airbus, Deutsche Bank, Delliotte & Touche.

ETS has joined hands with Skills International to promote ETS suit of English Learning Products such as TOEIC, CriterionSM Online Writing Evaluation and Pronunciation in English in Sri Lanka.

Skills International (Skills) offers a multitude of tailor made corporate programmes in different disciplines. It has successfully undertaken several assignments in improving communication skills for different industries.

Skills International is committed to vocational education. Of the company's objectives Business Development Manager Ashanie Hewawasam states, "We believe that developing and recognising skills is key to success at the macro level of international business as well as the micro level of individual learners."

In an economy where skills are increasingly in short supply, investment in Human Resources by employers is imperative for competitiveness. Investing in staff to improve knowledge and skills will reap long term benefits for an organisation, whether the measure for success is profitability, customer service or staff efficiency.

"Skills has undertaken many specialised assignments for banks, telecommunication providers, IT firms etc. Our forte lies in tailoring and delivering corporate training programmes based on internationally designed curricula and customised to incorporate functional communication aspects of the industry, the organization is involved in," states Hewawasam. All individuals undergoing training with Skills have the opportunity to obtain City & Guilds qualifications, adding the seal of international quality.

"We are constantly upgrading our training and looking to new technologies to help our customers. We have introduced CriterionSM Online Writing Evaluation and Pronunciation in English which are online training tools developed by ETS in to our training programmes," said Hewawasam.

Skills International has conducted tailor made communication skills enhancement programmes for Commercial Bank, Suntel, IGTL, and Police - Legal Range amongst others.

Skills International has also undertaken retail training programmes for retailing multinational Alpha Orient Lanka and Sri Lanka's largest fashion chain NOLIMIT. The City & Guilds retail programme has been customised to suit different industries.

The programme comprises both theoretical and practical aspects ensuring that individuals are proficient in the best practices of the trade. "Skills provides training that is flexible, accessible, with minimum inconvenience. Our business development team works in collaboration with organisations to make sure training meets the company's specific needs," says Manager - Business Relationships, Shafiya Careem. It employs the expertise of premier marketing and management consultant Prasanna Perera in developing and delivering this programme.

After A/L and O/L.

Guaranteed career prospects at CINEC

It is natural for any school leaver who opts to follow a professional course of study and training to seek a smart career. And the best place for such persons with an inclination to the sea would be Colombo International Nautical and Engineering College (CINEC) better known as CINEC Maritime Campus. Those who enroll for officer cadet programmes are guaranteed jobs with high rewards.

Unlike most other such institutions, candidates could enroll with GCE (OL) qualifications and there is opportunity for them to go up the ladder in his or her career. Also unlike some other institutions, those who follow the courses at CINEC are afforded the luxury of comfortable accommodation, recreation and boarding facilities.

CINEC is a quality, safety, health and environmentally accredited educational and training institute situated in the picturesque suburb of Malabe in the IT Park. It is the recipient of the prestigious National Quality Award and is accredited to DNV Maritime Academy Standards, Norway.

CINEC currently has on-roll around 14000 students and is reputed for career courses at sea such as officer cadet programme, BSc Marine Engineering (Marine Chief Engineer) and BSc in Maritime Science (Master Mariner). It also offers Bachelor of Engineering courses in Electrical and Mechatronic, Electronics and Micro Engineering, Telecommunication, Computer Systems Engineering, Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering and BSc in International Transportation Management and Logistics

Further to these high quality marine and other engineering Bachelor Courses CINEC also offers a wide range of Advanced Diploma, Diploma and Certificates courses in professional shipping, supply chain management, logistics and transport, welding, aluminum fabrication, marine electrical, automation and control systems and electronics, international computer driving and many other such courses.

CINEC is equipped with modern workshop, laboratory and library facilities complemented by a panel of well trained, qualified and experienced academic staff, including foreign visiting lecturers. Programme Officer, CINEC, Maduranga Perera said that these quality and versatile study and training courses are highly job oriented and smart careers are guaranteed.

Perera said that these are great opportunities for our youth who clamour for job opportunities and as CINEC courses are internationally recognised and as they also work in collaboration with reputed universities in Australia, United Kingdom and China, the possibility of gaining foreign employment is 100 percent and also there are immense job opportunities locally.

He said that while their current on-roll is excellent with 1400 students many persevering youngsters would have lost these opportunities, particularly from the provinces. As such CINEC has launched an extensive awareness campaign. In this connection Perera said that they are prepared to educate the students in upper classes by visiting the schools on request and arrangements could also be made for the students to visit CINEC Campus for the awareness programme, which would then also afford them an opportunity to see for themselves the superb conditions and the environment at CINEC.

CINEC is true to its vision: 'To demonstrate superiority as a modern Maritime, Engineering and Industrial Education and Training Organisation in Asia' and also their motto 'Smart Careers, Smart Future and Smart Place.'

Achieves 95% London O/L pass rate

Crescent Girls School shines

Crescent Girls School (CGS), a creation of Harcourt Foundation has revealed that 95% of the students who sat for the London O/L 2007/08 have passed.

Many students have also secured A grade passes in the subjects offered.

Chairman, Ahamed Rheyas, stated that he is personally proud to be associated with this noble venture. It is also encouraging to note that students are gaining excellent results and proceeding to carve out careers for them, he noted. He further stated that the basic education at CGS stood them in good stead in their respective callings.

Rheyas further stated that the London Ordinary Level and Advanced Level are recognised by all leading universities in the world, and the students of CGS will have no problem in the choice of a higher university education anywhere in the world.

He thanked the staff of CGS for their dedication and commitment to guide and fulfill the needs of the students.

Harcourts Foundation has planned to further improve the infrastructure of the school, to match the standards of the best of its kind.

CGS is housed at a magnificent building at Jensonwatte, Anderson Road, Dehiwala.

PIM, a Superbrand

Superbrand International paid tribute to a number of Business Superbrands recently. The Postgraduate Institute of Management (PIM) became the first and only business school to receive Business Superbrand status. 

PIM pioneered the MBA programme in Sri Lanka over two decades ago.  It continues to conduct the country's leading MBA programme.  Over 2500 PIM alumni hold key positions in both the private and public sectors.

PIM continually upgrades its curricular and delivery modes in keeping with the changes in the larger environment in order to make its programmes the best in class.  A blend of modern theories and concepts of management, and their real-life applications have made PIM's programmes stand out from the rest. 

An expert local and foreign panel of lecturers constitute the institute's faculty. They also contribute to the enrichment of knowledge in their respective areas of expertise through research and publications. The institute's Sri Lankan Journal of Management is a quarterly publication on research in management.

CIMA - sL a Superbrand

CIMA Sri Lanka, the second largest CIMA institute in the world, has been deemed a Business Superbrand for 2008 by the Superbrand organisation, an independent authority on branding that exists to promote the discipline of branding and to pay tribute to exceptional brands.

Speaking to The Sunday Leader, CEO CIMA Sri Lanka, Bradley Emerson said that this was a tremendous achievement for an institution that has been present in Sri Lanka for the past 40 years.

He stated that the accomplishment is a tribute to the hard work and dedication of all the past presidents, successive councils and members who had a              focus and professionalism that has contributed to the overall success of achieving Business Superbrand status.

Meanwhile Divisional President of the CIMA Sri Lanka Division Gowri Shanker Somasundaram stated, "It is indeed a honour to receive this prestigious accolade that has been awarded to the CIMA Sri Lanka Division for its commitment towards positioning the CIMA profession," adding, "CIMA's eminence in the science of management accounting focusing on business accounting has over the years established strong relationships which have led to long term value creation for the businesses and its members.

"CIMA is the first ever educational qualification to receive the Superbrand status in Sri Lanka, which I believe is an endorsement to decades of outstanding hard work and dedication of all the past presidents, successive councils and members."

Emerson said, "Sri Lanka has the largest student population outside the UK that's following a foreign qualification and this award does not just reflect on CIMA Sri Lanka but its students as well. We produce business leaders, not just mere management accountants and the CEO slots of some of the biggest companies in this country proves that. We have also seen an increase in the number of students passing the qualification and to me each of them are superbrands and each of the students following the course are future superbrands while students who are thinking about taking up CIMA can rest assured that they will be choosing a path that will lead them to be corporate superbrands."

Present in 161 countries and growing, CIMA has 164 thousand students and members worldwide.

Emerson added CIMA Sri Lanka is the nucleous of its region having produced a world prize winners and world class tutors. He added that the Business Superbrand's recognition  will only make CIMA more inclusive stating that in the recent past, much interest has been shown by students in districts out of Colombo.

He further mentioned that the independent UK agency responsible for government scoring of immigrants' qualifications has classified the CIMA professional qualification  equivalent to a Masters Degree.

A point score of 35, the same as MSc, has been awarded to the CIMA professional qualification by UK NARIC, the independent body that assesses and scores qualifications from around the world. The UK government uses this information on its official database to benchmark qualifications held by potential immigrants to the UK under its highly skilled worker programmes.

Emerson said, "We have seen over the years the change in student's attitudes towards professional qualifications. CIMA was once sought after A/L's and now students opt for CIMA after completing their O/L's which just shows the demand for the qualification."

Talking about the Certificate Course in Business Accounting which is a six month full or part time course, Emerson said  "In todays constantly evolving business environment, the CIMA Certificate Course in Business Accounting offers students an opportunity to build and develop their business and financial knowledge, both enhancing their CV and helping them shape their career."

Success begins by being true to yourself

Extracts of the speech made by Chief Guest Mangala Moonesinghe at the annual prize giving of Stafford International School which was held recently.

I see among you the future leaders of our country - leaders in various fields, whether it be government, in science, in business or in the arts. You are at a special time of your lives - a springboard from which you will dive into your futures, choose fields of study which will launch your careers, and embark on study courses from which you will gain not only knowledge from books but also from experiences that will shape you as the men and women of tomorrow.

You are living in both exciting and worrying times. Exciting as there is a world of potential global communication that is open to you that were not available before. Our children and grandchildren are constantly at the internet - using terms I barely understand - Facebook, Youtube, Skype - and they use these tools to communicate with people around the world, to learn about diverse topics, and to share interests in photography, music and other exalting ideas.

These are times when science is racing ahead with interesting and sometimes frightening advances in areas such as cloning, and stem cell research - when enterprising path finders are preparing to go on their first voyages to space aboard privately owned space vehicles. Yet these are anxious times as well, as your generation will have to take on the responsibility of worrying about issues of global warming, terrorism, and unprecedented greed in financial markets around the world.

From a Sri Lankan perspective we are facing a terrible war - that may or may not end anytime soon that is affecting the lives of countless citizens, and an economy that is facing hard times due to both external and internal shocks, and poverty and a lack of education for many of our children. On the positive side you are living at a time that is considered the Asian Century - when the world is looking at our continent for its educated workforce, for opportunities of outsourcing, for partnerships on resources and business ideas.

As students that are now preparing to head out into the world - to universities and onto other specialised fields of study, you should keep in mind a few things that have always guided me in my life.

Always be a law abiding citizen. Do the right thing - knowing to be guided by your inner voice, to live by high standards and ethics - to remember not to give into corruption and dishonesty in your dealings. To give you inspiration use quotations or personal stories or biographies of famous people. But above all be driven by your conscience.

Cultivate a spirit of generosity to those in need - whether it is for the people close to you, your community or for the country. Learn to give, share your ideas, share your knowledge, share your wealth and share your time. If you can make a difference in the betterment of one person's life, your life will be one of contentment. Even when you are engaged in busy careers make time to help the community.

Develop a sense of gratitude and be thankful for the things you have. We live in a materialistic world where we are constantly bombarded by advertisements luring us to buy a better car, a trendier pair of jeans, the latest cellphone. You will never be happy if you only pursue the acquisition of material things, because it always leaves you wanting more. Be thankful for what you currently have - you will be able to live more contented lives.

As you graduate and move into the next phase of your life - you are taking a huge step forward. You are moving away from your cloistered home environments and will be taking responsibility for your lives. If you are going abroad for your studies - you will for the first time be away from the watchful eyes of your parents.

No one to tell you to be home early, to have a shower, finish your homework or eat your food. You will enjoy a freedom that you have never known. Use this freedom carefully, for you, and only you, are now responsible for your life, for who you become. Study hard for education matters. Your learning will always open doors for you in the future. Choose careers in which you have an interest in, and learn from the hurdles that life sets in front of you.

My name is not on the panels of prize winners adorning the walls of the Royal College Hall. But I got a lot out of my days at Royal College my alma mater - A sense of confidence in myself and a sense of pride in the school, a sense of discipline and fair play, binding ties of friendship and above all respect for our teachers who inspired us in the areas I was willing to explore.

My mind goes back to my English teacher who inspired an abiding interest in literature and poetry and the teachers who drove into us that our word was our honour and to always speak the truth, whatever consequences may follow. Bill Gates was a Harvard drop out, but look at the heights he reached and Harvard gave him an honorary degree

With all the pluses and minuses I have given you in my assessment as a student the fact that honesty and integrity was a lesson learnt and carried to this day by me and I have imparted this to our children. Today I can stand here with my head held high and say that in all my years in public life, I have never been tempted to enrich myself by corrupt means, nor have I shied away from my duty in my chosen field.

When I practiced law my dedication was to my client, as a Member of Parliament to my voters who voted for me and to those who did not and as an Ambassador, to my Government and to my Country. This I can tell you does not come with mere scholarship, it comes from moral values instilled in you in your home, in school and from your peers.

This brings me to another matter, choose your friends and companions with care. You are the leaders of tomorrow, you are the opinion makers of tomorrow, you are the custodians of the entirety of your country's integrity and therefore I entreat you to act sober, act with care and thoughtfulness and act with tolerance and respect for others. Do not become insular in your approach. Read widely and open your mind up to global influences which will broaden your horizon and know that there is a bigger world outside our island shores.

I would like to take this opportunity to request you to remind yourself at all times that we are all Sri Lankans living in a multi religious, multi lingual and multi cultural society. We must learn to accept and respect this diversity as a feature that enriches our lives and unites us.