First batch of students who completed the course with panel of lecturers and representatives of Macksons Holdings

Macksons, the manufacturer of Sri Lankan Heritage brand Multilac Paints and Macktiles floor tiles, has launched an innovative new corporate social responsibility (CSR) project. In collaboration with the University of Colombo, the Macksons group is offering a certificate course in organic agriculture, aimed at supporting toxin-free agriculture. 

Macksons Group Managing Director Mizver Makeen stated, “We are a proudly Sri Lankan entity and as a 100 percent home-grown conglomerate, we are committed to supporting the government’s long-term goal of providing toxin-free meals to all Sri Lankans. At Macksons, we believe that CSR entails going beyond mere one-off projects simply to boost our corporate brand. Instead, we keenly feel the pulse of the nation and work closely with our fellow Sri Lankans, uniting in our efforts to build a better future. Although we are not an agro-based group, we feel it is our duty to support our nation during its time of need for organic solutions in agriculture.”

The Managing Director further elaborated, “Sri Lanka has overly relied on chemical fertilisers resulting in the addition of poisonous agrochemicals to our diet. This has compromised the nutritional value of staple foods such as rice and endangered the health of future generations. We have launched several projects to expand organic farming in the country and lay the foundation for building toxin-free agriculture practices. In addition to the health benefits, the country can decrease spending crucial foreign exchange on importing chemical fertilisers and harmful pesticides.”

He also stated, “Scientific and technical knowledge is essential for proper cultivation and proper production of fertilisers and pesticides. We are so fortunate to have eminent lecturers of the University of Colombo Institute of Agricultural Technology and Rural Studies in Weligatta, Hambantota, joining hands with us to share their expertise.” 

The course aims to provide both practical and theoretical knowledge on organic farming and fertiliser production. The knowledge imparted will undoubtedly be of great benefit to farmers, entrepreneurs, regulators and consultants of the agri services institutions, who are engaged in the production of organic fertilisers.

The first batch of 17 students participated in a 14-day residential workshop and completed the course on February 3, 2022, at the University of Colombo’s Institute of Agricultural Technology and Rural Studies, in Weligatta, Hambantota. It is noteworthy to mention the fact that the second batch was also enrolled recently. The participants who successfully complete the course will be supported to further enhance their knowledge and become organic farming trainers in their locality. The candidates who wish to attend future workshops should contact 0719841115 via SMS or email [email protected].