'Professionalism in logistics sector vital'

By Sanjeevi Jayasuriya

The Institute of Supply and Materials Management Sri Lanka (ISMM) offers career guidance to youth, from school-leavers to young professionals interested in making this specialised field their career.

Founded in October 1972, the ISMM has now become a leading institution in Supply and Materials Management.

"We are an institution incorporated by an Act of Parliament. We started in a small way with a few members and have now grown our base with 1,655 full-fledged members during the past 41 years. It also has fellow, corporate and associate members. We also have 10,000 to 15,000 affiliated members," said ISMM, President, Anil Ponweera.

The courses offered by ISMM are basic and certificate level, management level and graduate diploma in supply chain management. It now offers MSc in Supply Chain Management with the support of the University of Colombo.

"We will enter into an accreditation with foreign universities and will conduct programs after finalising the process. We have also expanded our programs in Sinhala to attract youth in rural areas," he said.

The first program was held in Kurunegala with the Industrial Service Bureau, a state owned organisation under the Wayamba Provincial Council.

The ISMM plans to conduct similar programs in Kandy and Galle and in the North.

"We are the national body for supply chain management and are expanding to create awareness about the importance of supply chain management. We see huge opportunities in the inbound and outbound logistic sector with the development of infrastructure. However, lack of professionalism is a drawback in this regard," Ponweera said.

The courses designed by ISMM include Graduate Diploma in Purchasing and Supply Chain Management, Certificate, Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Purchasing and Supply Chain Management, Certified Supply Manager, Licentiate Course in Procurement and Supply Management and Courses in Store Management, Purchasing Management, Shipping, Air Cargo and Containerisation and Certificate Courses in Purchasing, Store Keeping, Hotel Purchasing, Storage and Cost Controlling.

ISMM have a panel of consultants to promote and develop principles, techniques and the practice of purchasing and supply chain management. The institution plans to train all SriLankan airline staff.

An awards ceremony will be held soon for students who have completed the rigorous three-year training program.

"We have openings for school-leavers. This is a good career path to follow as we also cater to those who are unable to enter university," Ponweera said.