DFCC Bank empowers youth through ‘Samata English’ CSR program

Friday, 12 July 2019 00:05 -     - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Vice President/Regional Manager Candiah Jegarajah handing over study packs to students in Ampara

 Assistant Vice President/Regional Manager Thanigasalam Sathieshan handing over study packs to students in Jaffna

 

 

 

Fulfilling its commitment to the youth of Sri Lanka, DFCC Bank carried on its successful ‘Samata English’ program to teach spoken English to students with the aim of equipping them to become responsible citizens of tomorrow. As a socially responsible entity, the bank reiterated its focus on education as a key pillar of its CSR activities by hosting the program for the third consecutive year.

DFCC Bank launched the Samata English program in 2017 as a pilot project in Gampaha and Kalutara. The impactful program was later extended to Kandy, Kurunegala and Galle in 2018. The English education program aims to impart essential life skills and English knowledge among students in order to increase their confidence when stepping into the corporate world.

Following the success of its inaugural programs, the third Samata English program is currently underway in Ratnapura, Polonnaruwa, Ampara and Jaffna, benefitting over 120 youth between the ages of 18 and 25.

The three-month program, which will be conducted in collaboration with Gateway International, commenced with an initial assessment of the students. The course comprises practical activities, presentations and skills development, conducted in classrooms with modern facilities, and concludes with a final assessment. A graduation ceremony is held after course completion to recognise high achievers. DFCC Bank also offers internships to students who have scored highest marks on the course.

Commenting on the success of the Samata English program, DFCC Bank CEO Lakshman Silva said, “The lack of English speaking skills is a stumbling block for talented youth in the country, as English knowledge has become a mandatory skill to succeed in a globalised job market. DFCC Bank launched Samata English to bridge the spoken English skills gap, which recorded success in the last two years. Our reward was to see the trained youth scoring high in spoken English skills as a direct influence of the program. Encouraged by the improved confidence and positive outlook that this program instilled in youth during the last two years, we are pleased to continue the program in 2019 to help our youth fulfil their professional aspirations.”

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