SLASSCOM launches FIT HIT 2024 to boost wellness in tech industry

SLASSCOM Chairman Jehan Perinpanayagam (left) with Union Assurance CEO Seneth Jayatilake. SLASSCOM Vice Chair and Board Member Shehani Seneviratne and Chief Marketing Officer Mahen Gunarathna are also present 

Sri Lanka Association for Software and Services Companies (SLASSCOM) has launched FIT HIT 2024, a two-month wellness program aimed at fostering a healthier and more balanced workforce, emphasising physical and mental well-being among Sri Lanka’s IT/BPM professionals.

The FIT HIT 2024 arises from the realisation that many professionals in the IT sector spend prolonged hours in front of computers, leading to significant health concerns. The sedentary nature of desk jobs, coupled with extended periods of inactivity, prompted SLASSCOM to take proactive measures. The initiative focuses on educating, engaging, and instilling healthy habits in the workforce while garnering collective organisational support from companies within and beyond the industry.

Union Assurance, as a platinum sponsor, plays a pivotal role in contributing to the program’s success. The company’s commitment to enhancing the well-being of Sri Lankans aligns with SLASSCOM’s vision of promoting comprehensive health habits within the technology industry. Union Assurance Chief Executive Officer Senath Jayatilake said, “At Union Assurance, we believe that a person can lead a well-balanced life by improving a combination of their physical and emotional well-being. That is why we are happy to extend our support to FIT HIT 2024, a dynamic platform empowering participants to proactively take charge of their lives and make positive strides towards self-improvement. We extend our best wishes to all participants, and hope they discover the essential tools to lead their lives to their fullest potential.”

AyuBo Life, one of the key event facilitators, enriches FIT HIT 2024 by conducting webinars led by health and wellness experts. These sessions aim to raise awareness about the critical importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Following the webinars, participants will embark on a 21-day STEP Challenge. This competitive online step tracking system encourages individuals and teams to elevate their physical activity levels, serving as a catalyst for integrating fitness into their daily routines.   FIT HIT 2024 also offers optional ‘Couch to 5km’ training sessions held over seven consecutive Thursday evenings at Vihara Maha Devi Park, led by experienced fitness coaches and sponsored by the other key event partner BoardPAC. These sessions provide structured guidance to individuals and teams striving to enhance their fitness levels.

The culmination of FIT HIT 2024 is the Grand Finale—a 5km walk/run and wellness morning at Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo on 3 March, that fosters camaraderie and a shared commitment to well-being among the IT/BPM community.

SLASSCOM Chairman Jehan Perinpanayagam emphasised their commitment to promoting Sri Lanka as a responsible destination for IT/BPM services and a leader in ESG practices. FIT HIT 2024 embodies this commitment by investing in the well-being of the workforce, cultivating a culture that prioritises both physical and mental health. This initiative aims to create a tech workforce in Sri Lanka that is not only healthier but also more vibrant and resilient poised to drive the nation’s technological advancement.