For over 85 years, the Bank of Ceylon (BOC) has proudly upheld its legacy as “Bankers to the Nation,” steadfastly committed to empowering Sri Lankans through its expert financial services. Recognising the vital role of youth in shaping the future, BOC goes beyond traditional banking to champion the education and development of young minds. With a strong emphasis on fostering growth and opportunity, BOC continues to be a driving force in nurturing the aspirations of Sri Lanka’s youth, ensuring they are equipped to lead the nation toward a brighter tomorrow.
In an insightful conversation with R.M.N. Jeewantha, Deputy General Manager (Development Banking and Branch Credit Operations – Range 2) at Bank of Ceylon, he shared the Bank’s vision for youth empowerment and how it aligns with Sri Lanka’s broader development goals.
Paving the way for academic excellence
“Youth is the foundation of a nation’s growth,” Jeewantha remarked. “At the Bank of Ceylon, we believe that access to quality education is a right, not a privilege. Our aim is to bridge financial gaps, ensuring that no student’s potential goes unrealised.”
BOC’s educational loan programme embodies this philosophy, offering salaried employees and professionals financial support for higher education, both locally and internationally. The scheme covers up to 90 percent of tuition fees and provides flexible repayment terms of up to five years. With loans accessible through an extensive network of 658 branches across the island, BOC has made quality education within reach for countless young Sri Lankans.
Empowering young entrepreneurs
Beyond academics, BOC is equally invested in fostering entrepreneurship. Jeewantha highlighted the ‘BOC Youth’ loan scheme, tailored to support young entrepreneurs in launching and expanding businesses.
“We’ve helped over 10,000 young entrepreneurs realise their business ambitions. Our assistance goes beyond funding; we provide mentorship and guidance, helping many businesses transition to export markets,” he explained.
This entrepreneurial drive is further amplified through BOC’s ‘SME Circle’ and ‘Export Circle’ initiatives, which cater to small and medium enterprises, the backbone of Sri Lanka’s economy.
Leading in digital transformation
Acknowledging the evolving aspirations of today’s youth, Jeewantha shared how BOC integrates cutting-edge technology into its services. “From SME Online Loan Applications to SmartPay, Smart Online Banking, and the B App, we’ve prioritised digital transformation to ensure our banking solutions are accessible, fast, and future-ready,” he said.
A call to action for Sri Lanka’s youth
As the conversation drew to a close, Jeewantha delivered a heartfelt message: “The future of our nation rests on the shoulders of its youth. At the Bank of Ceylon, we stand ready to support your aspirations, whether they lie in academics, entrepreneurship, or innovation. Together, let’s build a resilient and prosperous Sri Lanka.”
BOC continues to reinforce its position as a financial institution and as a steadfast partner in Sri Lanka’s journey toward progress. Through youth empowerment, the Bank is investing in the nation’s most vital resource; its people.
