DFCC Bank develops youth of Sri Lanka through ‘Samata English’ CSR Online Programme

DFCC Bank, the bank for everyone, recently launched the online version of its ‘Samata English’ project as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility programme for the 4 th year. The initiative falls under the theme “Education”, one of the six identified thematic areas of the Bank’s Sustainability Strategy. It will benefit a large cross-section of youth, across the island.

This year’s programme targets youth in Anuradhapura, Vavuniya and Badulla Districts and aims to develop their spoken English skills, alongside a number of soft skills identified as key to entering and succeeding within the modern Sri Lankan workforce. The ‘Samata English’ programme will span 4 months, commencing in October 2021 with online classes conducted by the Gateway Language Centre, on behalf of DFCC Bank. Students will be provided a data allowance and a free hands-free set, thus enabling them to easily access the online sessions and complete the programme.

DFCC Bank called for applications through the DFCC Bank Facebook page from youth aged 18 to 25 in the selected 3 Districts who have passed their GCE Advanced Level examinations. Suitable candidates will be selected through an initial online assessment. The participants stand to gain a plethora of benefits, from the provision of a Certificate-level course in Spoken English to the development of soft skills. Selected participants who score well at the final assessment will also be provided internship
opportunities at DFCC Bank branches.

The ‘Samata English’ programme was conceptualized with the prime outcome of cultivating linguistic ability amongst youth, empowering them to communicate with a global audience by possessing the required skills to meet the demands of an ever-evolving economic landscape. The initiative includes training in the development of soft-skills; leadership ability, time management, presentation and writing, and how to face an interview. These skills are invaluable in todays’ job market, and also in ensuring youth excel in their careers.

Commenting on the initiative, DFCC Bank CEO Lakshman Silva stated, “DFCC Bank is delighted to conduct the ‘Samata English’ programme for the 4 th year. Our goal as a socially responsible Bank is to continuously contribute towards strengthening resilience especially of youth in helping them secure livelihood opportunities. The programme highlights our commitment to ensure inclusivity and to develop a resilient, sustainable future for all. This is integral to DFCC’s vision to be the leading bank contributing towards Sustainability by 2030.”

DFCC Bank’s value creation aims at developing resilience in our communities. It is part of the Bank’s long tern Sustainability Strategy aiming at doing business using sustainable business practices and inclusive value creation along the Triple Bottom Line (economic, environmental and social).

About DFCC Bank
DFCC Bank is a full-service Commercial Bank with a legacy of 65 years as one of Sri Lanka’s foremost financial conglomerates that offer a range of commercial and development banking services. The Bank won the awards for Most Trusted Retail Banking Brand and Best Customer Service Banking Brand in Sri Lanka, 2021 from the prestigious Global Brands Magazine, UK and was ranked amongst Business Today’s Top 30 Corporates in Sri Lanka. DFCC Bank is rated [SL] AA- Stable by ICRA Lanka Limited and A+ (lka)
Stable by Fitch Ratings Lanka Limited.