Business
Breaking the Bias: Celebrating the women at Samsung
With International Women’s Day taking on greater meaning for many of us this year, Samsung asked their women colleagues of various backgrounds to share what motivates and empowers them to be their best.
In sharing everyone’s unique experiences, the overarching lesson we all came to realize is that great ideas can come from anyone, no matter their skill level, gender or background — an important revelation at a company whose mission it is to help people everywhere defy barriers.
Gender diversity in technology remains an obstinate problem despite the growing voices pushing for gender equality in the industry. Reports show that as women make up 59% of the total workforce, they present only 30% in major tech companies.
When it comes to economic access, women entrepreneurs also face significant barriers and are behind in the race for economic opportunities. Declination over the past few years of women’s participation in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) discipline is another factor making females away from technology. In this way, there is a need to empower and build strategies to unlock growth and prosperity for women in technology. For companies to achieve gender equality, recruiting more women in their IT team can be an obvious solution.
Samsung’s unwavering commitment to women’s equality is evidenced by the action we take to create positive change both within our organization and in the communities where we live. That action is reflected across the board from our citizenship programs that foster girls’ interest in STEM to our Women in Samsung Electronics (WISE) Employee Resource Group (ERG), a network created to promote and encourage a workplace culture where everyone can thrive.
From software backgrounds to service marketing, Samsung’s women have been empowered to be the best version of themselves.
Anjalee Erathna- Manager, Software Quality Assurance
The culture at Samsung Sri Lanka has allowed us to be our best versions and thrive at the workplace. With constant training, supportive management and teammates, Samsung Sri Lanka is a key driver in women empowerment.
Kumudi Panditharathna- Asst. Manager, Finance
I know many women have faced prejudices throughout their career however I, very positively, cannot say that I have faced any. My career has definitely seen a great positive change ever since I joined Samsung and I look forward to furthering my career and skills through Samsung.
Nilanga Ranagala- Manager, Finance
You don’t need to be at the top at Samsung to have a strong female voice. All employees are heard and valued at Samsung Sri Lanka.
Judith Jansz- Manager,
Product IM
Samsung is a progressive workplace with an inclusive and equal environment. In a time where women are achieving great heights in many industries in Sri Lanka, it is a privilege to be a part of this change.
Nilusha Wanasinghe- Manager, Marketing, IM
We would love to see more archetypal women holding up a chain of smaller female figures who climb up a mountain together, helping each other on the way and raising their flag – reflecting the strong female voices and unstoppable leadership potential, which is the culture that is cultivated in Samsung Sri Lanka.
Pawani Lakshani- Executive, Marketing
I am seeing a positive change in Samsung Sri Lanka with regards to equality and diversity. In the beginning, it wasn’t uncommon for me to be the only woman in the room. It was a little intimidating at first, but I was persistent because I knew I had the talent to continue on my career path.
Natalie Goonawardene- Manager, Service Marketing
At more senior levels in the tech industry, certainly, there are more challenges. While working through them, it is important to raise visibility and pave the path for others. The industry at a large is slowly learning to judge people based on their work, rather than who they are or where they come from.
Business
Cabinet approves submission of the Annual Economic Analysis of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka for the year 2024 to the Parliament
The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the proposal forwarded by the President in his office as the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to submit the Report on the Annual Economic Analysis of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka for the year 2024 to the Parliament.
As per section 80 (3) of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka Act No. 16 of 2023, the Minister in – charge of the subject of Finance shall submit a report on the economic situation which prevailed within the particular financial year, within four months after completion of each financial year. Accordingly, the report in relation to the financial review of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka for the year 2024 has been submitted to the President. The report has envisaged macro economic trends of Sri Lanka, situation of the financial system, as well as the major developments and a review of the policies of Central Bank of Sri Lanka.
[DGI]
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.
Maintaining public trust is a fundamental responsibility of the Police Department – President
Submission of gazette notifications for the concurrence of the Parliament.
Cabinet approval to prepare new Act for securing the rights of plant species
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