The Ministry of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development, in partnership with the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM), has launched a pilot programme to transform selected public sector officers into high-level business advisors, with the aim of strengthening support for small enterprise development in the Western Province.
Launched on 4 July, 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 programme, they will be designated as “Relationship Officers” and trained to offer high-quality business advisory services.
What makes this programme 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 advisors.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Chathuranga Abeysinghe emphasised, “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 said.
The event was attended by Anoja Herath, Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development; Yasas Hewage, Private Secretary to Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe; Professor Dewasiri Jayantha, Chairman of SLIM; Dr. Dilhan Sampath, Vice Chairman of SLIM; Manoj Priyantha, Director of the Small Enterprise Development Division; and a number of SEDD officers from the Western Province. (Newswire)
