Finance in brief

SLITAD program on professional development

The Sri Lanka Institute of Training and Development (SLITAD) has organised an evening professional development program on "New trends in performance management based on self development plans and self-empowerment techniques" for its members on March 25 at its headquarters in Nawala, Rajagiriya.

The discussion will be led by CENLEAD CEO Dr. K. Kuhathasan.

The following areas are listed for discussion.

"Steps in developing performance management system based on self-empowerment and self development plans." "Identification of core areas in personal performance plans".

"Advantage and merits of self-development plans for performance measurement and management".

"Introduction and implementation of self-empowered performance management system for organisational development and job satisfaction."

Taxes on Gold Imports removed

With effect from March 1, 2010, all taxes and other levies applicable on gold imports have been removed. The removal of all applicable import taxes and other levies on gold imports will reduce the gold prices in the market and contribute to promote gold and jewellery industry in the country. Accordingly, commercial banks and other authorised persons can now increase their gold imports to meet the industry requirements.

JKH goes environment friendly

The John Keells Social Responsibility Foundation has initiated five environmental projects. *Nature Field Centre at Rumassala, Galle * Butterfly Garden at Cinnamon Lodge, Habarana * Red Bag Project* Compost Project* and Paper Recycling Project The vast development taking place around has undoubtedly taken its toll on environment. Whilst a conscious collective effort is necessary to save the planet, the role large corporates can play in this process is limitless. The John Keells Group, which has a long history of good corporate citizenship, is one such organisation. While the Sustainability Initiative of the Group drives efforts at minimising the impact of the Group's operations on the environment, John Keells Social Responsibility Foundation spearheads the Group's commitment to give back to the communities and environment that have been the backbone of the Group's success.

DFCC Vardhana Bank holds Children’sDay

A Children’s Day organised by the DFCC Vardhana Bank (DVB) in December 2009 was a huge success.

The event, held on the beach, witnessed a participation of over 1,500 children. Organised by DVB’s Panadura Branch, the event consisted of a fun-filled day for the children with a multitude of games and entertainment and a raffle draw as well. DFCC Vardhana Bank, by way of their children’s account, Vardhana Junior, encourages parents and children to save responsibly and smartly.

Sisu Udana Banking unit at Anula Vidyalaya

A Sisu Udana Banking unit was opened recently at Anula Vidyalaya Nugegoda by the Assistant General Manager of People’s Bank Sunil De Saram.

As an initiative to inculcate the habit of saving among students the People’s Bank opened Sisu Udana Banking units in schools.

Sunil De Saram accepting the first deposit from a student while principal Anula Vidyalaya Sandhya Neelamani Malawi Arachchi, Assistant Regional Manager of People’s Bank Sherla Perera and Manageress Nugegoda city Branch Thushari Hewawasam look on.

BPA at new premises

The Regional Chamber Network - Business for Peace Alliance (BPA) in Sri Lanka has moved its Secretariat to new premises under new leadership since January 2010.

Ms. Manique Mendis, who held the position of Chief Executive Officer and the Secretary General of BPA since its inception, left BPA to join Inter News Sri Lanka.

She labored hard to develop and build the BPA Secretariat and made it what it is today. She was successful in projecting a good image for BPA in the media and making BPA popular throughout the regional chamber community around Sri Lanka. Camilus Mendis has replaced her in this position.

He is a graduate of philosophy and a post graduate diploma holder in Public Administration, and Administration and Communication as well.

He has worked with both local and international organisations and has experience in social and economic development issues. Prior to joining BPA he worked as the Country Director of Christian Children’s Fund of Canada. . The new office premises of the BPA Secretariat at Polhengoda Road, Colombo 5.