CIMA Sri Lanka’s enduring commitment to professional excellence

Leading next era of financial leadership

By Tharindu Wijewardana

CIMA’s recent recognition as a Superbrand in Sri Lanka is more than an accolade – it is a testament to the trust, credibility and impact we have built over six decades. It honours our long‑standing commitment to developing world‑class finance and business talent.

2025 was a year of momentum and impact for CIMA Sri Lanka. We proudly marked our 60th anniversary on the island and strengthened our support for members as they navigated the evolving demands placed on modern finance professionals. Through hands-on training sessions, member engagement activities and high-profile events and awards, we helped build capabilities and deepen connections across our CGMA community.

We also reinforced our commitment to developing resilient, opportunity ready finance professionals. With candidates progressing on their CGMA journey, we engaged closely with students and early career talent to showcase the opportunities that come with becoming CGMA qualified. Together, these efforts strengthened the pipeline of skilled, future-ready finance talent for Sri Lanka’s businesses and economy.

Looking ahead, we will carry this energy and passion through 2026. We will continue to enhance our support for members and students, expand partnerships and strengthen our position as a leading voice shaping the future of profession on the island. 

Our priorities for the year ahead include: 

 Delivering a stronger professional development agenda to build future-ready skills, featuring regular CPD events, the flagship Shift Summit and CXO Forum, offering global insights, practical learning experiences and addressing the most pressing issues for finance professionals.

 Growing member engagement through networking events, the CIMA President’s Reception and dedicated knowledge-sharing sessions will continue to create spaces to listen, connect, learn and grow. 

 Expanding student and early career support, including career days, industry visits, quarterly Practical Experience Requirement (PER) workshops and upgraded digital platforms for self-study and improved exam preparation.

 Providing targeted exam success initiatives through cohort-based support models, structured coaching, focused revision workshops and recognition programmes for high performers and prize winners.

 Deepening our employer and partner collaborations through renewed corporate partnerships, Training Partner development, high level forums and the launch of the 2026 edition of our highly successful Corporate Partners Programme.

 Elevating out thought leadership presence through our CFO Summit, national budget dialogues and timely insights on the evolving finance landscape, we will continue to shape Sri Lanka’s business conversation and provide perspectives that add real value.

 Enhancing retention and community efforts with a dedicated Student Support Hub, quarterly townhalls, year-round recognition the achievements of our members and students and targeted communication campaigns.

As we celebrate our Superbrand recognition, our commitment remains unchanged: to elevate the finance profession in Sri Lanka and equip our CGMA community with the future ready capabilities needed to lead in a changing world. 

With the support of our members, candidates, employers and academic partners, we enter 2026 with purpose, confidence and optimism. I am confident that, together, we have got what it takes to unlock opportunity, accelerate capability and build a stronger, more resilient Sri Lanka.

(Tharindu Wijewardana, ACMA(UK), CGMA, is Country Head Sri Lanka of The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants)