Revolutionising wellness in SL’s tech industry

In the bustling corridors of the tech industry, where deadlines hum like overclocked servers and creativity fuels the next big revolution, there often flickers a neglected light – employee wellbeing.
Yet, as the sector hurtles forward at breakneck speed, the importance of prioritising employee wellness has never been more critical. Beyond the lines of code and the algorithms, lies a workforce whose physical and mental health are paramount to sustaining the industry’s momentum and creativity.

Acknowledging the importance of having a well-balanced schedule, Sri Lanka Association for Software and Services Companies (SLASSCOM) has launched FIT HIT 2024, a two-month wellness programme aimed at fostering a healthier and more balanced workforce, emphasising physical and mental wellbeing among Sri Lanka’s IT/BPM professionals.

Need for wellness in tech 

FIT HIT 2024 arises from the realisation that many professionals in the IT sector spend prolonged hours in front of computers, leading to significant health concerns. The sedentary nature of desk jobs, coupled with extended periods of inactivity, prompted SLASSCOM to take proactive measures. The initiative focuses on educating, engaging and instilling healthy habits in the workforce while garnering collective organisational support from companies within and beyond the industry.

Collaborative partnerships 

Union Assurance will play a pivotal role in contributing to the programme’s success. The company’s commitment to enhancing the wellbeing of Sri Lankans aligns with SLASSCOM’s vision of promoting comprehensive health habits within the technology industry.
Meanwhile, AyuBo Life, as one of the key event facilitators, will enrich FIT HIT 2024 by conducting webinars led by health and wellness experts. These sessions aim to raise awareness about the critical importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Following the webinars, participants will embark on a 21-day STEP Challenge. This competitive online step tracking system encourages individuals and teams to elevate their physical activity levels, serving as a catalyst for integrating fitness into their daily routines.

Couch to 5km training sessions

FIT HIT 2024 also offers optional ‘Couch to 5km’ training sessions held over seven consecutive Thursday evenings at Viharamahadevi Park, led by experienced fitness coaches and sponsored by the other key event partner BoardPAC. These sessions provide structured guidance to individuals and teams striving to enhance their fitness levels.

Grand finale 

The culmination of FIT HIT 2024 is the grand finale—a five kilometre walk/run and wellness morning at Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo on March 3, that fosters camaraderie and a shared commitment to wellbeing among the IT/BPM community.
SLASSCOM Chairman Jehan Perinpanayagam emphasised their commitment to promoting Sri Lanka as a responsible destination for IT/BPM services and a leader in ESG practices. FIT HIT 2024 embodies this commitment by investing in the wellbeing of the workforce, cultivating a culture that prioritises both physical and mental health. This initiative aims to create a tech workforce in Sri Lanka that is not only healthier but also more vibrant and resilient poised to drive the nation’s technological advancement.