Business
Landmark research on migrant worker reintegration challenges
The first publication of the recently concluded migrant worker research study entitled, ‘Skills, Aspirations and Reintegration Challenges of Returned Migrant Workers: Evidence from Selected Districts in Sri Lanka’, was presented to R.P.A. Wimalaweera, Secretary to the Ministry of Labour and Foreign Employment, by the Skilled and Resilient Migrant Workers (SRMW) project, in Colombo. The SRMW project is funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), within the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) YouLead initiative.
Conducted by the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) on behalf of the SRMW project, this study bridges existing empirical data gaps on returned migrant workers, with a focus on challenges to economic reintegration related to skills development and qualifications recognition. Primary data for the study was collected from a sample survey of returned migrant workers in the project’s priority districts: Anuradhapura, Kandy, Kurunegala, Puttalam and Vavuniya, of which a majority were women migrant workers.
Policymakers at the event were presented with an overview of the report followed by an in-depth discussion of implications by an eminent panel of experts, led by Dr Bilesha Weeraratne, Research Fellow at IPS. Insights on skills development, self-employment and entrepreneurship, reintegration services and gender-based challenges were highlights of the discussion. The panel was comprised of Mr. Dasitha Niroshan, Director, Skills Development, Ministry of Education; Dr. Sepali Kottegoda, Director of Programmes, Women’s Economic Rights and Media at the Women and Media Collective; Mr. Heminda Jayaweera, Co-founder and Director, Venture Frontier Sri Lanka; and Mrs. Padmini Ratnayake, Advisor, Minister of Foreign Employment.
Receiving the report, R.P. A. Wimalaweera, Secretary to the Ministry of Labour and Foreign Employment, said, “With many Sri Lankans migrating for work, identifying suitable and productive methods of reintegration upon their return also becomes a continuous requirement. The findings and recommendations of this report will be useful for future evidence-based policy improvement towards effective reintegration”.
Emphasizing the role of the SRMW project within the Safe Labor Migration program, Raoul Imbach, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Switzerland in Sri Lanka, said, “Skilled resilience is a key focus of the Safe Labor Migration program initiated by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, which is now in its fourth phase. Through our funding of the SRMW project and its activities such as this research study, we continue to support the improvement and implementation of Sri Lanka’s National Labor Migration Policy and empowerment of the country’s migrant workers”.
Expressing USAID’s commitment to empower Sri Lanka’s migrant workers, Ali Ezzatyar, Acting Deputy Mission Director, USAID Sri Lanka & Maldives, said “At a time when many Sri Lankans are seeking opportunities overseas, USAID wants to help minimize the negative impacts of their departure for both the migrants and the country, and ensure that when these workers return, they can reintegrate and utilize new skills and experiences obtained abroad to contribute to the development of Sri Lanka”.
Improving the resilience of Sri Lanka’s migrant workers through skills development and recognition, guidance services and access to information are priorities of the SRMW project, and this research study marks the first of several of SRMW’s policy related initiatives.
HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) made a significant ascent in the latest LMD 100 rankings climbing 13 places to reach rank 64, cementing its position as one of Sri Lanka’s leading listed companies. Throughout the past few years, HNB Assurance has grown stronger, smarter and more united in its purpose, turning challenges into opportunities and refining every aspect of its operations.
The LMD 100 is a prestigious annual ranking that evaluates the financial and strategic performance of publicly listed companies in Sri Lanka. HNB Assurance has consistently climbed the ranks year after year in recent years, reflecting the company’s sustained growth. With 2025 underway, HNB Assurance is planning to leverage its strengths and growth momentum maintained over the past couple of years, as this year represents the penultimate step in its ambitious journey toward achieving the vision of “10% market share by 2026”, a transformative goal that aims to redefine, elevate and position the company as a trailblazer in the industry.
Sharing his thoughts on the company’s new ranking, Lasitha Wimalarathne, Chief Executive Officer of HNB Assurance PLC, stated, “Our upward trajectory in the LMD 100 rankings reflects the collective efforts of our incredible team, the trust our customers have placed in us and our ability to adapt to the dynamic business landscape. At HNB Assurance, we remain committed to strengthening our core business, embracing innovation and delivering sustainable value to all our stakeholders.”
“As we step into 2025, it is inspiring to reflect on our journey so far. By the end of Q3 2024, we achieved growth that was well above the industry average, a remarkable feat we’ve consistently maintained since 2022. This success has been driven by the exceptional efforts of our sales force both from the Advisor Distribution and Partnerships channels, alongside the support of all our teams. I must also add that our vision for ‘10 in 2026’ is not merely a corporate milestone, it embodies our broader aspiration to transform lives, uplift communities and set new benchmarks in the industry. As the countdown to this goal continues, we will maintain our growth, while continuing to stive and create a lasting impact on the lives of our policyholders.” added, Wimalaratne.
Sri Lanka Insurance further expands its presence in the Upper Western region with the opens its Naiwala Agency Business Development Center (ABDC) on the 12th of December at No.90/6/C, Airport Road, Naiwala junction, Veyangoda.
The occasion was graced by SLIC Life Chief Business Officer Namalee A. Silva, Deputy General Manager – National Sales (Life) Jagath Welgama, Upper Western regional management, Branch Management of Veyangoda representing Life and General categories. Distinguished invitees and customers of the area were also in attendance at the event.
Agency Business Development Centers (ABDC) allows SLIC to further enhance its reach, which provides convenience and speed of service delivery to its loyal customers in relation with their protection needs.
CEAT Kelani Holdings has introduced a new high-performance tractor tyre, the 13.6 – 28 PUDDLE XL TT 12PR, just in time for the harvest phase of the Maha cultivation season. Designed specifically for agricultural use, this innovative cross-ply tyre promises to enhance farming efficiency and tractor operations.
Compatible with leading tractor brands such as Sonalika, TAFE, John Deere, and Mahindra, the tyre features advanced design elements tailored for puddling operations. Its higher non-skid depth (NSD) ensures superior traction in wet and muddy conditions, while wide and angular lugs improve stability and grip. The tyre’s deep and open shoulders allow for effective self-cleaning, and reinforced carcass construction extends its lifespan, offering excellent value for farmers.
This is the sixth tractor tyre variant developed and manufactured locally by CEAT Kelani Holdings, showcasing the company’s dedication to the agriculture sector.
CEAT Kelani Chief Operating Officer Shamal Gunawardene noted that the tyre addresses the unique challenges faced during the harvest period. “It ensures improved performance, durability, and reliability, empowering farmers and operators to achieve better productivity,” he said.
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