HNB partners with SLIM to launch Marketing ROKS programme for students

Above: From left to right - Dinuk Parameshwaran (HNB Executive - Marketing Communication), Sanduni Basnayake (HNB Executive - Master Brand), Anuk De Silva (HNB Manager - Marketing Communication), Upul Adikari (HNB Head of Marketing) receives a token of collaboration from SLIM President Gayan Perera, alongside Dr. Dilhan Sampath Jayatilleke (SLIM Vice President - Events & Sustainability), marking the launch of "SLIM Marketing ROKS Powered by HNB."

HNB PLC, Sri Lanka's leading private sector bank, recently announced a landmark partnership with the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM) to launch "SLIM Marketing ROKS Powered by HNB," an innovative educational initiative designed to empower school students with essential marketing, business, and financial skills. This initiative builds upon the efforts of SLIM Brand Week 2025, with HNB continuing to nurture future leaders, the bank said in a media release.

The MoU was signed at HNB Towers, with the collaboration representing a significant step in both organisations' commitment to nurturing the next generation of business leaders and entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka. The programme will deliver a comprehensive series of masterclasses targeting O/L and A/L students across government and private schools nationwide.

"This strategic partnership with SLIM exemplifies HNB's dedication to educational development and our broader vision of empowering Sri Lanka's youth. By introducing students to real-world business concepts and challenges at this crucial stage of their education, we're not just building knowledge but inspiring future leaders who will drive our nation's economic growth. This initiative perfectly aligns with our core social impact pillars, particularly in education, and demonstrates our commitment to creating sustainable value for the community," said HNB Head of Marketing, Upul Adikari.

The programme aims to reach over 80 schools across the island, offering students practical insights into modern marketing strategies, financial management, and business innovation through interactive learning sessions. A key highlight of the initiative includes awarding scholarships for students to pursue SLIM's Professional Certificate in Marketing, creating a clear pathway for their professional development. 

"SLIM Marketing ROKS has always been about nurturing future leaders by giving them a real taste of the challenges and opportunities in marketing and business. Partnering with HNB allows us to take this initiative to new heights, offering students across the island a truly engaging and valuable learning experience. We are confident that this programme will continue to inspire and shape the next generation of marketers and entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka," said SLIM President, Gayan Perera.

The programme emphasises enhancing presentation and communication abilities through interactive learning sessions led by experienced marketing practitioners. Students will also benefit from valuable networking opportunities with industry professionals, creating connections that can support their future careers in business and marketing.