Microsoft ignited the ‘Scaling AI at Work’ event in Sri Lanka on 26 November 2024, providing a dynamic platform for key customers and partners to delve into the transformative potential of AI. The event showed how Microsoft AI is sparking success among its customers, effectively enriching employee experience and driving business processes with the use of an AI platform that is secure, safe, and private.

Dr. Rohini Srivathsa, Chief Technology Officer for Microsoft India and South Asia, led a power track on ‘The Art of Possible with AI for Productivity’. In her session, Dr. Srivathsa discussed the extensive suite of AI models accessible through the Microsoft platform, emphasizing that unlocking its true potential hinges not only on the prompts customers use, but also the context of one’s work. She elaborated on how AI is reshaping business transformation and the critical importance of responsible AI practices, reaffirming Microsoft’s stance on protecting customer data.

Speaking on the efficacy of AI in driving value, Dr. Srivathsa said, “Microsoft runs on trust. We aim to empower our customers to bend the curve on innovation with AI Copilots, driving efficiency through comprehensive cutting-edge systems. We’re changing the way innovation is done, effectively helping our customers accelerate their transformation in the age of AI with a platform that is secure by design to reshape collaborative businesses, processes and decision making.”

A key highlight was how Microsoft 365 Copilot enhances productivity by saving time, automating routine work, thereby freeing workforces to pursue higher priority goals with the potential of creating significant impact.

The event explored how Copilot is actively helping organizations create new business opportunities, optimize capital management, and improve profitability while reducing operational costs by eliminating the need for external support and third-party AI tools. Copilot users reported saving 30 minutes a day, equating to 10 hours per month, highlighting the value of AI in everyday business operations.

Trust and security were central themes throughout the event. Speakers underscored the importance of implementing robust security measures alongside AI adoption. In line with this, a panel discussion titled ‘Creating Customer Delight by Optimizing Processes with Utmost Security’, moderated by Harsha Randeny, Country Manager for Microsoft Sri Lanka and Maldives, explored real-world success stories of businesses achieving operational efficiency through AI-powered solutions.

Sotheby’s conducts its first ever Auction celebrating contemporary and modern Sri Lankan artists

The eagerly anticipated first-ever art auction conducted by Sotheby’s in Sri Lanka, presented by the George Keyt Foundation, continues to generate excitement with the unveiling of the distinguished line-up of artists.

The landmark event aims to bring together an extraordinary constellation of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated contemporary and modern artists whose works will be showcased and sold in an unprecedented charity auction.

The artworks will be available for viewing at Cinnamon Life on December 8th  from 10.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m and on December 9th from 10.00 a.m to 5.00 p.m. On December 8th, Ishrat Kanga – Director, Specialist, and Co-Worldwide Head of Modern and Contemporary South Asian Art at Sotheby’s will lead a panel discussion titled ‘Indian Ocean Affiliations in the Making of Modern and Contemporary Sri Lankan Art’. The Panel will be moderated by Mariah Lookman and will include Professor Jagath Weerasinghe and Anoma Wijewardene. This is a free event and registration is available on Eventbrite on the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/indian-ocean-affiliations-in-the-making-of-modern-contemporary-sri-lanka-tickets-1094936778379

The Charity Auction,conducted by Ishrat Kanga of Sotheby’s, featuring 46 Lots by 35 leading Sri Lankan artists will take place on December 9th  2024 at 6.30 p.m. at The Forum, Cinnamon Life. Pre-registration to participate in the Auction is required. For more information, please visit www.georgekeytfoundation.com/auction

The prestigious exhibition receives support from generous sponsors including Cinnamon Life as the Principal Sponsor and Nations Trust Bank serving as Co-Sponsor. Other Official Partners include Lynear Wealth for Wealth Management, Wine World for Beverages, MA Lanka for Logistics, Colombo Jewelers for Gem & Jewellery, Calcey for Technology, Printcare for Print Services, and Chatham Luxury as Watch Partner.

The exhibition provides a valuable opportunity for art enthusiasts, collectors, patrons and the public to immerse themselves in contemporary creative expressions, celebrating Sri Lanka’s artistic legacy. For more information visit our website www.georgekeytfoundation.com/auction and pre-registration details, contact: info@georgekeytfoundation.com

NDB Bank proudly celebrates the exceptional performance of its Kotahena Branch, which has achieved a monumental milestone in the bank’s history. The branch has become the first in NDB’s history to produce an unprecedented all 12 branch staff members qualify for the elite CEO’s Club members in a single year 2024 with a remarkable YTD achievement of Rs.37 million, cementing its position as the highest performer across the entire network.

This historic achievement is a testament to the Kotahena Branch team’s relentless dedication, exceptional teamwork, and commitment to delivering customer-centric solutions. By placing the needs of customers at the forefront, the team has demonstrated the true spirit of excellence that NDB strives for.

NDB Bank’s CEO’s Club, a hallmark of bancassurance excellence, has grown exponentially since the partnership with AIA Insurance began in 2006. As a pioneer in integrating banking and insurance services, NDB has consistently enhanced its suite of bancassurance solutions to provide comprehensive financial security for its customers. In 2023, the bank recorded a landmark achievement with 210 CEO’s Club members, showcasing the growing importance of bancassurance in NDB’s customer-focused offerings.

The 12 exemplary staff members who contributed to this outstanding achievement were Balasubramaniam Aingaran – Branch Manager, Shivanthan Jayaranjit – Privilege Relationship Manager, Jeyasekaram Kuganthan – Assistant Manager, Gagan Hiniduma – Credit officer, Navodya Nagodavithana – Credit Associate, Chamara Udayanga – Pawning officer, Sharmin James – Cash Officer. Amirthalingam Kirushikan – Previous cash officer, Mohammed Nafeel – Junior Executive, Nishan Madushanka Leonard – Senior Business Development Associate, Nidhursha Yogaraj – Banking Assistant and Sesadi Jeyasekara – Banking Assistant.