SLASSCOM launches training program to bridge management gaps in Sri Lanka’s IT sector

SLASSCOM has rolled out a specialised training program to address critical gaps in mid-level management within the IT sector. Developed in collaboration with senior leaders from leading tech companies, the initiative is designed to equip IT professionals — particularly those moving from technical roles into management — with the skills needed to become effective future leaders and drive sustainable growth in the industry.

The program offers over 60 hours of training, enabling participants to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios and engage in insightful discussions. The program features a panel of 11 trainers and 10 industry experts, including CxO-level professionals, and is evenly split between virtual and in-person sessions. The program is delivered in two phases. Phase I focuses on Leading Self and Leading Teams, while Phase II emphasises Leading Customers and Driving Innovation

SLASSCOM Vice Chairman Sampath Jayasundara stated, “Sri Lanka’s IT sector experienced a significant loss in its middle management layer as skilled professionals migrated abroad or began working remotely for foreign companies. This has left a critical gap, creating an urgent need to fast-track the transition of technical professionals into management roles. Typically, IT professionals start their careers in technical roles such as programing, quality assurance, or business analysis. As they gain experience, they are presented with two career paths: pursuing the technical track towards becoming architects or transitioning to management roles like project managers. However, moving into management often reveals skill gaps that require extensive time and resources from senior leadership. Therefore, SLASSCOM’s new program is designed to fast-track this transition by offering targeted training that directly addresses the identified skill gaps and to support technical professionals moving into management roles, allowing senior leadership to focus on strategic objectives rather than operational challenges.

The hybrid program format is designed to foster interactive learning through group work, discussions, and activities. The program emphasises preparing participants for global market demands, where participants will receive training on effective communication and relationship-building with international clients, ensuring they are equipped to succeed in both virtual and in-person professional settings.

The next batch for Phase I of this training is scheduled to commence in late July 2025. Spanning six weeks, the program includes three full-day in-person sessions, and 14 concise one-hour online sessions. The structure is thoughtfully designed to offer flexibility, enabling participants to engage effectively alongside their busy work schedules. 

This project is supported by the Royal Norwegian Embassy, allowing SLASSCOM to offer this high-value program at a significantly discounted rate to participants from SLASSCOM member companies. 

With SLASSCOM’s ongoing training initiatives being strategically designed to address the growing management gap in Sri Lanka’s IT sector by equipping professionals with the essential skills to smoothly transition from technical roles to leadership positions, ensures that Sri Lanka’s IT industry remains competitive on a global scale, with a new wave of leadership poised to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and meet the evolving demands of international markets.