The programme reached a remarkably successful conclusion, with students receiving their certificates at special Awards Ceremonies conducted by the respective DFCC Bank Branches, through which 81 students were honoured for their dedication and hard work for the batch of 2022.
DFCC Samata English is undertaken with the support of Gateway Educational Services Pvt Ltd, an education services partner, who conducts the study programme.
The DFCC Samata English Programme has been a ray of hope for rural youth aged 18-25 who have completed the GCE Advanced Level Examination.
It has effectively bridged the gap between education and employment, equipping these aspiring professionals with the linguistic and soft skills needed to excel in the competitive job market.
The Bank also provides individuals who successfully completed the programme with internship and work opportunities, while in upcoming editions, a placement programme will also be introduced.
DFCC Bank's unwavering commitment to Developing Resilient Communities has found expression through this initiative, aligning seamlessly with one of its core sustainability pillars –Education– one of the "6 Es" of the Bank's long-term sustainability vision, which takes centre stage through this initiative.
Furthermore, DFCC Samata English also happily aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 17, leveraging partnerships for sustainable development through its collaboration with Gateway Educational Services.
Over the past five years, the programme has directly impacted the lives of approximately 800 young individuals across the Island, including in regions such as Gampaha, Kalutara, Kandy, Kurunegala, Galle, Ampara, Rathnapura, Polonnaruwa, Jaffna, Badulla, Anuradhapura, Vavuniya, Trincomalee, Nuwara Eliya and Hambantota.
The programme's top performers were provided internship opportunities at the Bank.
The programme's significance goes beyond just language skills, explained Nilmini Gunaratne – Vice President - Head of Marketing and Sustainability at DFCC Bank,
"Developing English language skills in young people helps to unlock a world of opportunity for them.
Fluency in English enhances their employability and provides access to a limitless realm of information and global perspectives through the Internet.
Learning these skills can help our youth engage as global citizens, broaden their horizons, and take advantage of opportunities at home and abroad."
Samata English exemplifies DFCC Bank's dedication to sustainable development, empowering the younger generation with the knowledge and tools to navigate a dynamic and competitive world, contributing to a brighter and more prosperous future for Sri Lanka.
The 3-month Spoken English course covers essential aspects like communication skills, grammar, listening, reading, and writing.
It includes activity-based learning for practical experiences.
Additionally, a one-month Soft Skills segment covers teamwork, time management, presentation skills, and interview preparation.
Through DFCC Samata English, DFCC Bank supports breaking language barriers and creating employment opportunities for Sri Lankan youth through education, contributing to the nation's future beyond finance.