SLIM-Industries Ministry to produce SL’s top business advisors

The Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry, in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM), launched a special programme aimed at transforming state officials into the country’s top business advisors.

Launched on July 4, this pilot initiative focuses on development officers (DOs) and enterprise development training officers serving in the Western province under the Small Enterprise Development Division (SEDD) of the ministry. Under the new programme, they will be designated as ‘relationship officers’ and trained to offer high-quality business advisory services.

What makes this programme unique is the active involvement of the SLIM, which has stepped in to provide internationally recognised training. A total of 50 selected officers will undergo a professional course designed to enhance their skills, capabilities, attitudes and overall business advisory capacity, turning them into highly competent and practical business advisors.

Speaking at the event, Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe emphasised, “I see this transformation of ROs as the creation of a vital and influential team that will directly impact the success of entrepreneurs. This will enhance their own skills, perspectives and direction.”

“Through this initiative, they are given the opportunity to become organic contributors to the national plan. This is truly a role that goes ‘beyond employment,” Abeysinghe said.

The event was attended by Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry Additional Secretary Anoja Herath, Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe’s Private Secretary Yasas Hewage, SLIM Chairman Prof. Dewasiri Jayantha, SLIM Vice Chairman Dr. Dilhan Sampath, SEDD Director Manoj Priyantha and a number of SEDD officers from the Western province.