Business
SLT Group demonstrates resilience in delivering value to nation despite challenges
Sri Lanka Telecom Group (SLT Group) recorded a consolidated revenue growth of 5.4% to Rs 26 Bn in Q1 2022, in comparison to the corresponding period in the previous year. Group Profit After Tax (PAT) in the same period was recorded at Rs. 2.7 Bn, demonstrating the SLT Group’s resilience despite challenging economic conditions. Beginning the new year, the Group continued its focus on digital transformation agenda, streamlining the cost base and automating processes while delivering and creating value for stakeholders and the nation.SLT Group’s EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortization) recorded a 9.9% YoY growth to stand at Rs. 10.7 Bn with the EBITDA margin improving to 41% for the quarter against 39.4% in the corresponding period of the previous year. The Group recorded a Profit Before Tax (PBT) of Rs 3.5 Bn for the quarter.The Group’s revenue growth was primarily driven by the increased broadband revenues resulting from the ongoing accelerated Fibre Expansion Project under the National Fiberisation Programme and due to the expansions and upgrades in the 4G/LTE network. The investment towards fiberisation and the aggressive roll-out and marketing of fibre solutions paid off as it contributed to achieve Q1 targets for the Group with increased consumer demand. Further, the Group saw an increase in PEOTV revenues due to the accelerated Fibre Expansion Project. The Group’s revenue from Career Domestic services too improved during the period.
SLT Group Chairman, Rohan Fernando stated, “The first quarter of 2022 proved more challenging than we had expected, however SLT-MOBITEL overall performance reflected the resilience and strength of our portfolio. Throughout 2022 we aim to continue to deliver value for all stakeholders reinforcing our support to bridge the digital divide serving the Nation and our people. Prudent financial discipline was also a key factor in our success”.The Operating Cash Flows of the Group grew to Rs. 16.3 Bn, up by 35.3% YoY. The Group recorded a favourable cash and cash equivalents position of Rs. 31.6 Bn as at the end of the quarter. SLT Group’s contribution to the Government of Sri Lanka during the first quarter, 2022 amounted to Rs. 4.2 Bn. in direct and indirect taxes including levies.
SLT Group Chief Executive Officer, Lalith Seneviratne added, “We continue to invest in the best of emerging technologies, including networks and digital capabilities, and continue our efforts to deploy an innovative portfolio of products and services implementing the transformation of the company.”Sri Lanka Telecom PLC (SLT), the holding company of the Group, recorded Rs. 4.1 Bn. in Profit After Taxes for Q1 2022. Revenue for the quarter recorded at Rs. 15.9 Bn whilst the EBITDA and Operating Profits stood at Rs. 6.3 Bn and Rs. 1.1 Bn respectively.SLT Chief Executive Officer, Janaka Abeysinghe commented, “We are on track for business growth and improved profitability, driven by rapid adoption of broadband services, fiberisation and increased bandwidth consumption, which is generating robust demand.”
The Mobile services arm of the Group, Mobitel (Pvt.) Ltd, sustained revenues at previous levels, earning Rs 11.6 Bn in the Q1 2022. Both EBITDA and Operating Profit margins remained positive at 38.9% and 19.3% respectively, whilst foreign exchange losses negatively affected the bottom line of the Company, resulting a net loss of Rs. 0.8 Bn for the quarter.Mobitel Chief Executive Officer, Chandika Vitharena stated “Even in these unprecedented times, we are poised to capitalise on the growing need to simplify communications.”The SLT Group is looking to implement several key strategies to meet the economic slowdown and the challenging operating environment that includes cost increases, inflation, rupee depreciation against US dollar and delays in importing necessary equipment.
Gigalingua Lanka, a premier German language institute, officially launched in Colombo with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by distinguished guests, including Dr. Felix Neumann, German ambassador to Sri Lanka. This marks a significant milestone for Sri Lankan professionals, especially nurses, looking to expand their careers in Germany’s thriving healthcare sector.
In collaboration with its strategic partner Global Care Solutions (Pvt) Ltd – a renowned company in the foreign recruitment industry – Gigalingua Lanka offers a unique pathway for Sri Lankan nurses and apprentices to master the German language and pursue rewarding career opportunities in Germany.
Dr. Felix Neumann, the Chief Guest at the event, expressed his support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of language education as a bridge to global career prospects. In his speech, Dr. Neumann noted, “German language is not only a means of communication, it is a gateway to global career opportunities.” He commended Gigalingua Lanka for providing valuable opportunities for Sri Lankans and addressing the critical demand for skilled workers, especially in the nursing sector in Germany.
Gigalingua Lanka is the first private institute in Sri Lanka to offer comprehensive German language training up to the B2 level, and conduct TELC exam. The institution also provides language training for apprentices, allowing them to undertake the Apprenticeship Program and contribute to the growing labor market in Germany. The collaboration between Gigalingua Lanka and Global Care Solutions is designed to meet Germany’s growing need for skilled workers, particularly in the healthcare sector.
The event was attended by a number of prominent figures, including Dr. Felix Neumann , Arthur Senanayake (chairman of IWS Holdings), Eran Wickramaratne – former MP, Chandra Schaffter – ( Founder of Janashakthi Insurance ), Dhammika Attygalle (Director Upali Group of Companies and President Automobile Association of Ceylon) Former Wing Commander Buwaneka Abeysuriya (Ex- chairman Janatha Estates Development Board).
Chairman of Global Care Solutions, Thomas Michael Kriwat, who is also chairman of the Mercmarine Group of Companies in Germany, highlighted the significance of the new training center. He said, “We are bringing world-class German occupational language training to Colombo, offering a structured, career-focused pathway for Sri Lankan professionals. By introducing TELC (The European Language Certificates) as an officially certified German language test authority, we are increasing accessibility for students seeking internationally recognized qualifications.”
At the thanksgiving speech, Dr. Rajan Sara, Managing Director of Global Care Solutions and Director of Gigalingua Lanka, outlined the critical need for foreign nurses in Germany. “Germany is facing a significant shortage of nurses, estimated to need an additional 150,000 by 2025. This is exacerbated by an aging population and increasing healthcare demands. Over 47,000 vacancies in the healthcare sector remain unfilled, making it an ideal time for Sri Lankan nurses to seize this opportunity,” Dr. Sara explained. (Gigalingua Lanka)
In keeping with its vision to consistently evolve and address accelerated business growth needs, Brown & Company PLC recently unveiled its new state-of-the-art manufacturing and warehouse facility in Katunayake. Strategically located within minutes of the Bandaranaike International Airport and the nation’s rapidly evolving highway network, the space is positioned to significantly enhance Browns’ logistical capabilities. The hub will enable seamless access to key markets across the island, further solidifying the Company’s principal role in a cross-section of industries.
The inaugural event of the Browns Group Industrial Park was attended by Ishara Nanayakkara, Chairman, Brown & Company PLC and Deputy Chairman, LOLC Holdings PLC and Kapila Jayawardene, Group Managing Director/CEO, LOLC Holdings PLC along with key officials from the Browns and LOLC Group.
Dialog Axiata PLC, Sri Lanka’s #1 connectivity provider, has successfully launched the highly anticipated vivo V50 smartphone, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to bringing 5G technology and pro-level mobile experiences to Sri Lankan customers, with the first customer handover taking place on 27th March 2025.
The vivo V50, designed in collaboration with ZEISS, combines advanced features such as a 50MP ZEISS OIS Main Camera, a powerful Snapdragon® 7 Gen 3 processor, and a stunning 6,000mAh battery, all housed in a sleek, ultra-slim design. Available at an attractive price, the vivo V50 delivers unmatched mobile performance for work, play, and creativity, offering features such as AI-enhanced photography, 4K video recording, and lightning-fast 90W FlashCharge technology. The vivo V50 also boasts a 41° golden curvature for a comfortable grip and a premium, cinematic mobile experience.
Dialog’s partnership with vivo underscores its commitment to bringing the latest in 5G innovation to Sri Lanka, providing customers with access to next-generation mobile experiences and empowering them to capture, create, and connect like never before. The vivo V50 is now available for purchase at Dialog’s Experience Centers and via https://www.dialog.lk/phones/vivo-v50-5g-12gb.
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Sun directly overhead Nainamadama, Sandalankawa, Kundasale, Mahiyanganaya and Kalmunanai at about 12:12 noon today [08]
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