Students from the University of Moratuwa

Hayleys Advantis Limited recently completed the second programme in their capacity building initiative under the theme ‘Inspiring Logistics in Sri Lanka’.The programme was launched earlier this year to uplift the local logistics sector by bridging the gap between academic qualifications and corporate requirements. The company is working towards developing a competent, productive and skilled workforce to uplift trade standards and improve the global competitiveness of Sri Lanka.

The latest programme involved a field visit to the Port of Colombo and gave the opportunity for 60 students from the University of Moratuwa and Kothalawala Defense University to observe and learn first-hand how the port operates. Participants were briefed on standard operations at the port, ROI, procedures, planned future developments and were also given an operational tour of the port by Upul Jayatissa, Chief Manager - Marketing & Business Development, and Chitral Jayawarna, Senior Manager - Marketing & Business Development, Sri Lanka Ports Authority.

Commenting on the programme, Upul Jayatissa said, “We are delighted to be a part of this initiative that strives to shape the next generation of skilled logisticians and take this sector to the next level. Due to Sri Lanka’s strategic geographical positioning investment in this sector is imperative, if we are to take full advantage of every opportunity afforded to us and this should begin with talent development. This also fits in with the Government’s plans to make Sri Lanka a key logistics hub in the region.”

Students from the Kothalawala Defense University

Speaking about the event,Ruwan Waidyaratne,Managing Director of Hayleys Advantis, said, “There is great potential for the logistics sector to contribute further towards the transformation of the country. This potential can be achieved through strategic investments in developing the skills necessary to navigate and capitalize on the future of the industry. We are thankful to the Sri Lanka Ports Authority for providing great insight into how the Port of Colombo functions and helping shape the minds of tomorrow. This programme looks to not only teach but to inspire the next generation of logisticians.”

This was the second in a series of sessions planned to share knowledge and build capacity towards energizing the logistics industry in Sri Lanka, with many more workshops, internship programmes and discussions scheduled to take place throughout the rest of the year. These will be conducted free of charge for graduates, undergraduates and employees related to the industry in the hope of uplifting the logistics sphere in Sri Lanka.