New era in HR education: CIPM’s DPHRM earns national recognition

From left: CIPM SL CEO U.A.C. Obeysekere, Technical Committee on Professional and Academic Affairs Chairperson Dr. Sanath Palliyaguru, President Priyantha Ranasinghe, Treasure Manoaj Keppetipola and Professional and Academic Affairs Director 

G. Weerathunga at the launch of NVQ Level 5 equivalency recognition for CIPM’s diploma in 

professional HRM - Pix by Ruwan Walpola 

By Janani Kandaramage

Setting a new benchmark for HR education, the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM), a professional body for human resource practitioners in Sri Lanka recently presented the National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) 5 recognition equivalent to the National Level Diploma in Human Resource Management (HRM), offering aspiring HR professionals a pathway to success across the world.

As the nation’s leader in human resource management, CIPM aims to enhance the quality of its competencies via the latest Diploma in Professional Human Resource Management (DPHRM) which aims to equip students with practical tools and extensive knowledge designed to meet local industry needs and global best practices. 

Discussing the distinctive qualities that sets DPHRM apart, CIPM Sri Lanka CEO U.A.C Obeysekere stated that graduates can progress to the Chartered Qualification in HRM (CQHRM), a flagship qualification professionally accredited by the CIPD UK. This opportunity, he stated, will enable professionals to seek a CIPD UK membership, gaining access to an extensive network of HR professionals and resources.

“Nevertheless, what makes this qualification stand out is the dual recognition professionals are subjected to. This is recognised by the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission (TVEC) as a national level diploma equivalent to NVQ Level 5 and aligned with global HR standards, ensuring qualifications that are respected both locally and internationally. Therefore, this program reflects CIPM’s commitment to shaping the next generation of HR professionals who can excel both at home and on the global stage.”

CIPM President Priyantha Ranasinghe praised the program for its commitment to empowering students to navigate the evolving challenges of the HR field with confidence. Speaking about CIPM’s prevailing role as a pioneer in HR education, he said: “CIPM has shaped professionals who drive progress across organisations nationwide. Until recently, CIPM was the primary institute offering HR education in Sri Lanka. However, the road to success is never a linear path. The competitive landscape changed with the evolution of human resource management, particularly after 2005. Universities and private institutions have increasingly integrated HRM programs into their offerings, providing specialised diplomas and degree courses to meet the growing demand for skilled HR professionals in the evolving global workforce. It became eventually clear that CIPM needed to adopt and elevate standards to maintain its position as the premium HR body in Sri Lanka. Recognising the need for both national and international recognition, we embarked on more diverse initiatives starting in 2018.”

Some of the key achievements of CIPM include: Achieving chartered status in 2018, launching the CPQHR qualification in 2020, becoming a CIPD UK study centre, introducing a Level 7 diploma in professional consultancy, and the integration of programs such as diploma in occupational health and safety, and diploma in industrial relations and employment law. 

The Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) continues to redefine the landscape of HR education in Sri Lanka by fostering partnerships with nearly all public and private sector universities, including those in the North and East. A recent highlight is CIPM’s pivotal role in drafting and advising on national HR standards in collaboration with Sri Lanka’s key standard institutes. “This initiative aligns with CIPM’s strategic vision to enhance the value and recognition of HR education in Sri Lanka. The attainment of NVQ Level 5 excellence serves as a landmark achievement, reflecting the institute’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards in professional training. NVQ certifications, widely respected in Sri Lanka and internationally, bolster the professional credibility of CIPM graduates, providing them with greater access to career opportunities on global platforms. This recognition reaffirms CIPM’s steadfast belief in the value of its qualifications and the trust it has cultivated among its stakeholders. The celebration of this milestone is a tribute to the dedication, vision, and tireless efforts of countless individuals, underscoring CIPM’s role in shaping the future of HR professionals,” he opined.

Addressing the vote of thanks, Human Resources Director Dr. Sannath Palliyaguru called the launch a testament of resilience, vision, and collective efforts of many. He believes DPHRM is the gateway to success, combining local relevance with international recognition.

The CIPM SL is the pioneering and most recognised professional body in the island when it comes to trendsetting in the HRM profession through its vast range of HRM related programs and examinations. The vision, mission, values and objectives of the institute focus on setting the highest standards and achieving the best results when it comes to professional standards in HR management.