First batch of students awarded Advanced Diploma in Financial Markets by CSE

The first batch of students that completed the Advanced Diploma in Financial Markets (ADFM) awarded by the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) were recognised at a ceremony held recently. The event marks a milestone in CSE’s efforts to foster financial literacy and education on the capital market as it is the first educational qualification to be awarded by the Exchange. CSE CEO Rajeeva Bandaranaike was the Chief Guest of the occasion while the keynote address of the ceremony was made by Candor Group Director/CEO Ravi Abeysuriya.

ADFM was implemented in response to a growing demand for an entry-level academic qualification to be awarded by CSE to enable greater knowledge on financial markets, particularly with a specific focus on capital market operations and investment. 

ADFM featured 10 modules and was completed over a period of nine months, covering areas such as capital market regulation, investment analysis, portfolio management, macro-economics and other related subject matters. Course content featured a combination of theory and practical aspects of financial markets and included the management of a model portfolio by the students, integrating real-world expertise with practical skills. The modules were conducted by an eminent panel of lecturers consisting of respected local university lecturers and capital market experts. As a key feature of the course, the three best performing students of the batch were also offered internships at CSE. 

The Chief Guest of the ceremony, CSE CEO Rajeeva Bandaranaike congratulated the students on their achievement and stressed on the need for youth to bring new perspective into the financial industry. He also went onto note that the CSE will continue to advocate for the capital market and strive to increase levels of financial literacy through its investor education initiatives which would pave the way for a knowledge-based investing community. 

“Financial markets are dynamic and fast changing and these conditions demand suitably qualified people with wide-ranging market skills and knowledge. Obtaining a relevant qualification is the first step to enhancing career prospects,” he added. 

Addressing the gathering and delivering the keynote address of the ceremony, Candor Group Director/CEO Ravi Abeysuriya commended the CSE for expanding its scope in the area of financial education. Commenting on the way forward for the students he further said, “I must also urge you to promote professionalism and enhance the levels of integrity and ethical conduct in the organisations that you work with. You have the power to be a formidable force of good practice, you can and should be setting an example especially in this industry and doing so will win you respect.” 

The Advanced Diploma in Financial Markets is recognised by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) and the Institute of Certified Management Accountants of Sri Lanka (CMA), which provide ADFM completed students an accelerated route to obtain a qualification in Management accounting through level 1 exemptions. 

More information on the course and details on the next intake can be obtained by calling 011 2356514.