Empowering future leaders: ICCSL’s tax awareness drive in universities

Educating youth on taxation is not merely a lesson in finance; it is an investment in the nation’s future. Recognising this, the International Chamber of Commerce Sri Lanka (ICCSL) has launched a series of university-level awareness programs aimed at helping young people understand the importance of taxation and its role in responsible citizenship.

The initiative is spearheaded by the Committee for Research, Knowledge Mobilisation and Taxation (RKMT) of ICCSL, which, as one of its many initiatives, focuses on bridging the gap between tax knowledge and public understanding. The most recent awareness session was successfully held at the Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo, for its undergraduates.

The session opened with remarks by ICCSL Vice Chairman Hemakumara Gunasekara, who highlighted the organisation’s broader mission to empower professionals and citizens through knowledge sharing. He emphasised that understanding taxation is essential to everyone, regardless of age, gender, or profession as it strengthens the social contract between citizens and the state. 

“Tax is not just a financial obligation; it’s part of being a responsible citizen,” he stated. “When young people understand how the tax system works, they become partners in building a more transparent and equitable future for the country.”

The program featured expert presentations by RKMT members and leading professionals from Sri Lanka’s top tax advisory firms. 

Ernst & Young Partner/Principal – Tax Services V. Shakthivel, shared key insights on key tax principles and practical applications relevant to young people. He demonstrated how to apply for a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and register with the Inland Revenue Department, practical steps that every future entrepreneur or professional should know.

KPMG Principal of Tax and Regulatory and RKMT member Rifka Ziyard, led a session on the application of tax procedures, legal frameworks, and compliance requirements, helping students connect academic theory with real-world tax practices. She also explained the many sources that the students can make use of to update their knowledge in taxation. 

Adding a strong civic dimension to the session, RKMT Committee Chairperson Dr. Nadee Dissanayake emphasised the importance of understanding taxpayer rights and obligations from an early stage. She explained that nurturing tax awareness among youth fosters trust, transparency, and long-term compliance, essential ingredients for sustainable national development. 

The program received strong institutional support from Faculty of Management and Finance Dean Prof. H.M. Nihal Hennayake, and Senior Lecturer and Coordinator of the Career Guidance Unit G. Ranaweerage. Their collaboration ensured a meaningful and interactive learning experience for the students. 

The undergraduates responded with enthusiasm, participating actively in discussions and sharing their curiosity about how taxes shape business and society. Many expressed appreciation for the practical insights and clarity the session provided.

The ICCSL’s RKMT Committee plans to continue this initiative across multiple universities and academic institutions, expanding its outreach to students, future entrepreneurs, and young taxpayers. By creating an early understanding of taxation and its civic value, the program aims to build a generation that views tax compliance not as a burden, but as a shared responsibility for the nation’s progress. This event was covered by Daily FT.