Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry to produce top business advisers with SLIM

Friday, 6 June 2025 00:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM), has launched a special program aimed at transforming State officials into the country’s top business advisers.

Launched on Wednesday, this pilot initiative focuses on Development Officers (DOs) and Enterprise Development Training Officers (EDTOs) serving in the Western Province under the Small Enterprise Development Division (SEDD) of the Ministry. Under the new program, they will be designated as “Relationship Officers” and trained to offer high-quality business advisory services.

What makes this program unique is the active involvement of SLIM, which has stepped in to provide internationally recognised training. A total of 50 selected officers will undergo a professional course designed to enhance their skills, capabilities, attitudes, and overall business advisory capacity, turning them into highly competent and practical business advisers.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Chathuranga Abeysinghe said: “I see this transformation of Relationship Officers (ROs) as the creation of a vital and influential team that will directly impact the success of entrepreneurs. This will enhance their own skills, perspectives, and direction.”

“Through this initiative, they are given the opportunity to become organic contributors to the national plan. This is truly a role that goes ‘beyond employment.” Abeysinghe added.

The event was attended by Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Anoja Herath; Private Secretary to Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Yasas Hewage; SLIM Chairman Professor Dewasiri Jayantha; SLIM Vice Chairman Dr. Dilhan Sampath; Small Enterprise Development Division Director Manoj Priyantha; and a number of SEDD officers from the Western Province.

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