Abans partners IDB to strengthen “School Industry Entrepreneurship Circles National Program”

From left: Industrial Development Board Assistant Director Saminda Ranatungage, Abans Corporate Communications Lead Chanaka Tissera, Director Tanaz Pestonjee, Industrial Development Board Director General W.M.D.S. Gunarathne, Director – Entrepreneurship Development Division Renuka Jayalath, Enterprise Promotion Officer Dilini Shashikala 

Abans Director Tanaz Pestonjee (left) and Industrial Development Board Director General W.M.D.S. Gunarathne

In a significant step toward boosting entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka, Abans PLC has joined forces with the Industrial Development Board (IDB), Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry, and Education Ministry to introduce the “School Industry Entrepreneurship Circles National Program”. This collaborative initiative aims to address a critical gap in entrepreneurial development, particularly when compared to other rapidly growing economies.

The partnership seeks to empower the youth of Sri Lanka, fostering a new generation of entrepreneurs who can drive the nation’s economic growth and innovation. For Abans, a company with a rich 50-year history rooted in entrepreneurial spirit, this initiative holds deep personal significance. As a business that has thrived on innovation and adaptability, Chairperson Aban Pestonjee remains keen to inspire and mentor the next wave of changemakers in Sri Lanka.

“When I began my entrepreneurial journey, what I had was little more than a dream and the belief that I could make a difference for Sri Lankan housewives. I am glad that my belief allowed me to become one of the first female entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka. Entrepreneurship is about recognising opportunities in challenges and having the courage to pursue them, no matter where you start from. Your ideas and determination can take you anywhere. The world needs creativity and vision, and I encourage every young person to dream big, be honest, work hard, persevere, and never give up on their aspirations.”

Pestonjee has been recognised numerous times for her skills, leaving behind a legacy that is incomparable. She was awarded as the Leading Woman Entrepreneur of the World Award, presented by the Princess of Thailand in 2007, the Legendary Lady Leader in Business Excellence 2024 by the Global CEO Magazine, the award of Excellence for Woman Achievers for Outstanding Achievement from the SAARC Women’s Association in 2000, the “Most Admired Leader Award for Entrepreneurship” by the International Chamber of Commerce Sri Lanka (ICCSL) in 2021 and the “Woman Entrepreneur of the Year” Award by the Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce in 2017. 

The primary goal of the program is to instil an entrepreneurial mindset in students, encouraging them to think innovatively and contribute to the creation of an export-driven, production-based economy. The initiative will focus on embedding an entrepreneurial ethos within schools, giving students the tools and confidence to not only seek jobs but to create them. This shift in mindset is expected to have a long-lasting impact, fostering industries, spurring innovations, and cultivating a generation of problem-solvers who are equipped to face national challenges head-on.

Through this program, students will learn how to transform challenges into commercial opportunities, equipping them with practical skills for success in various sectors of society. By encouraging students to see themselves as potential job creators, the initiative aims to change the landscape of employment and entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka, as expressed by Abans Group Director Tanaz Pestonjee.

“Entrepreneurship isn’t just about building businesses; it’s about solving problems and making a positive impact. Your ideas today can shape the future – and that’s something incredible. Whether it’s through innovation or creating solutions for the environment, every entrepreneur has the power to make a difference,” she stated.

Tanaz Pestonjee also expressed their excitement about joining the national initiative to support young entrepreneurs: “I’m extremely glad to be part of this important responsibility. Helping to educate and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs is a mission that can truly shape the future of our Nation. Together, we can create a community of young people who not only dream big but also have the skills and knowledge to turn those dreams into impactful businesses.”

The impact of this program will extend beyond students. With over 27,000 students across 550 schools set to benefit, the program will also engage teachers, parents, industry professionals, and local businesses. This widespread involvement will help create a supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurship, offering invaluable networking opportunities and insights for all stakeholders.

IDB Director General W.M.D.S. Gunarathne expressed his thoughts with regard to the future of this initiative as well, stating, “The School Industry Entrepreneurship Circle National Program, launched in June 2023, has made remarkable strides in a short span of time. The initiative has successfully reached all 25 districts across the island, impacting over 27,000 students in more than 550 schools. We take immense pride in witnessing the growth and achievements of these young entrepreneurs, who are now competing in the industrial world. Their products are not only being sold in local markets but have also expanded to international markets, marking a significant milestone in their entrepreneurial journey.

As we observe the success of this initiative, we look forward to expanding the program to 3,000 schools across the island over the next 5 years. Our sincere gratitude goes to Abans PLC for joining us as a sponsor for the next 5 years on this journey to foster an entrepreneurial culture among school students – an effort we are committed to continuing.”

By fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship from an early age, the School Industry Entrepreneurship Circles National Program initiative promises to be a catalyst for Sri Lanka’s future economic growth. The program is poised to make a meaningful contribution to shaping a self-reliant, dynamic workforce that can meet the challenges of a rapidly changing global economy.