HNB Assurance partners University of Colombo to launch Aspire program for top achievers

MoU signing between HNB Assurance and University of Colombo

HNB Assurance PLC has entered a strategic partnership with the Faculty of Management and Finance at the University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, to introduce the HNB Assurance Aspire program. 

This initiative aims to provide selected high-performing advisors, leaders, and bancassurance officers with an opportunity to enhance their professional and business skills.

Through the HNB Assurance Aspire program, candidates will have the opportunity to obtain a Diploma in Professional and Business Skills (DPBS) from the University of Colombo, with a pathway extending to a degree.

HNB Assurance CEO Lasitha Wimalaratne said: “At HNB Assurance, we believe in investing in our sales force and providing them with the best resources and opportunities they need to succeed. The HNB Assurance Aspire program is initiated with this in mind showcasing our commitment to nurturing talent and helping our advisors and bancassurance officers reach their full potential. In terms of this partnership, we are very excited and thankful to the University of Colombo for giving us the opportunity to partner with them and are proud to be the only insurance company in the country to form such a partnership with one of the best universities in the country. Personally, I look forward to seeing the positive impact of this program on our teams and our company.”

University of Colombo Vice-Chancellor Senior Professor H.D. Karunaratne said: “HNB Assurance has made an effective decision by choosing the best higher educational institute of the country as its trainer.” Moreover, he highlighted that: “University of Colombo is not only the best university in the country, also the only higher educational institute in the country which has been listed under the top 1,000 universities in the world. Therefore, the trainees of the company will obtain a global recognition after the completion of the program.”

HNB Assurance Head – Sales, Training and Development Shiran Fernando said: “The Aspire program is a significant step forward in our training and development efforts. By collaborating with the University of Colombo, we are ensuring that our high performers receive top-notch education and training, equipping them with the skills they need to excel further in their careers. In the first program, 40 candidates will be selected for the Colombo University program. I must convey my sincere thanks to both teams from the University of Colombo, Faculty of Management and Finance and HNB Assurance for their efforts in getting this program off the ground.”

University of Colombo Faculty of Management and Finance Dean Professor H.M. Nihal Hennayake said: “We are delighted to collaborate with HNB Assurance on the HNB Assurance Aspire program. This initiative aligns with our broader vision of the faculty in providing high-quality education and professional development opportunities to professionals who can benefit from advanced education, training and skills enhancement. As the facilitators of this program, I must state, our aim is not only supporting individual career growth but driving excellence that will benefit the broader industry. I eagerly await the positive outcomes of this collaboration and the long-term impact it will have on the participants and their organisation.”

University of Colombo Head – Management Consultancy Unit of the Faculty of Management and Finance Dr. Sajitha Dishanka said: “Our unit is fully equipped with required resource personnel and tailor-made program curricula to meet training requirements of the corporate sector.” Further, he assured that HNB Assurance will receive the expected value provided through its learning partners and be a company with a novel and impactful experience through the inaugurated diploma program.