Browsing by Author "Abeysekera, R."

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Assessing Financial Literacy Among Undergraduates of University of Kelaniya
(Department of Finance Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies University of Kelaniya, 2020) Samarasekara, M. A. G. I.; Abeysekera, R.
The purpose of this article is to analyse the level of financial literacy among university students at the University of Kelaniya. The study focuses on how demographic factors such as age, gender, faculty, year of study and income level affect undergraduates' financial literacy levels and whether there is a correlation between financial knowledge and demographic factors. To achieve the research objectives, the researcher collected data from 400 university students representing all faculties and years. This research used a stratified random sampling technique. Questionnaires were used as the primary sources of data collection methodology in this study. Descriptive Statistics, independent sample T-Test, ANOVA test and Probit regression were used for data analysis, and SPSS software was used as statistical software to analyse the survey data. The overall mean percentage of a correct score for the survey is 60.29%, indicating that the level of financial literacy of students at the University of Kelaniya is medium. The hypotheses test revealed that three factors, including gender, faculty, and income level, significantly affect the financial literacy level. According to the findings of the ANOVA test, there is a significant difference between financial literacy and age, gender, faculty and income level. Further, there is no significant difference between the financial literacy and the year of the respondent. This study fills the current research gap in financial literacy. The findings demonstrate the need for financial literacy education. Mainly researcher has concluded the level of financial literacy of students at the University of Kelaniya is moderate. Finally, the researcher recommends some recommendation to increase the level of financial literacy of undergraduates and recommends future researchers to overcome existing limitations and expand these studies to a variety of areas.
Barriers in Progressing Micro Insurance Scheme in Self Employment: With Special Reference to North Central Province
(Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2021) Senanayake, S.D.L.; Abeysekera, R.
Introduction: The primary goal of this research is to identify the major barriers or variables that influence the implementation of microinsurance schemes in the north-central province, with a focus on the self-employment sector. Design/Methodology/Approach: Based on the literature review, the conceptual framework was formulated with independent variables and a dependent variable. Independent variables selected for the study are willing to pay, trust in insurance, accessibility, simplicity and flexibility. The dependent variable is the implementation of microinsurance. Questionnaires were distributed to collect data in two districts of Northcentral Province. The study followed the simple random sampling method for data collection. The sample size was 140. Descriptive statistics and linear regression models were used for data analysis and SPSS was used as statistical software to analyse the data. Finding: According to the findings willingness to pay and trust in insurance significantly influence the implementation of microinsurance. Conclusion: This research help develop microinsurance programmes in Sri Lanka which are not developed at the moment.
Business development services (bds) offered by microfinance institutions (mfis) in sri lanka: case study as a research strategy
(Open University of Sri Lanka, 2019) Abeysekera, R.
Research methodology refers to an overall approach to a problem, which can be put into practice in a research process; from the theoretical underpinning, to the collection and analysis of the data. Research methodology consists of components such as research philosophy, process, strategy, choice and techniques. Strategy provides overall direction including the process to conduct a research. Case studies, experiments, action research and ethnography are strategies that can be used in a research. A case study is an empirical inquiry that investigates a contemporary phenomenon in depth and within its real life context, especially when the boundaries between the phenomenon and its context are not clearly evident. Choosing the correct research strategy is very important for a doctoral study. Thus, Case study method was used for a doctoral study to explore the business development services (BDS) offered by the Sri Lankan Microfinance Institutions through the lenses of coproduction concept. Case study method addresses the research objectives and questions at hand and improves the reliability of the research process. Further case study method contributes to understand the complex relationships in BDS and addresses the call for improved methodological pluralism in BDS research.
Challenges and benefits of implementation of ISO 9001: 2015: The case of Department of Finance, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka
(Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya Sri Lanka, 2022) Chathurika, H. L. D. J.; Abeysekera, R.; Perera, L. A. S.; Premarathne, W. G. I. D.; Chathurika, H. L. D. J.
Today, higher educational institutions are developing at a rapid pace by adopting new processes and technology. Further, they are subject to intense competition. Given this backdrop, higher educational institutions, in particular universities, are concerned about quality assurance. University Grant Commission, through Quality Assurance Council, gives the direction to maintain quality in Sri Lankan Universities. There has been a growing interest in adopting internationally reputed ISO 9001: 2015 by state universities in Sri Lanka that complement other quality measures. The Department of Finance (Dfin), University of Kelaniya, implemented ISO 9001: 2015 successfully recently. The objective of this study is to examine the challenges and benefits of the implementation of ISO by Dfin. A qualitative research approach using a single case study method was adapted to carry out the study. The findings of this study show that DFin implemented the ISO to gain a competitive advantage and reputation, and to establish a proper filing system. The study also reveals that lack of resources, resistance to change, and the existence of other quality measures challenged the implementation of ISO. The findings of this study contribute to knowledge and practice domains.
Default risk and debt recovery strategies of microfinance providers: A comparative study in Sri Lanka.
(International Research Symposium on Pure and Applied Sciences, 2017 Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2017) Kalpani, B. L. W.; Abeysekera, R.
The objective of this research is to identify and compare strategies used by six different Microfinance Institutions (MFIS) in Sri Lanka in order to minimize the risk of loan default and to recover debt. It also evaluates the effectiveness of the debt recovery strategies. According to Fitch ratings, over exposure to microfinance at Sri Lankan non-bank financial institutions (NBFIs) could pose risk to their credit profiles. The exposure among Fitch-rated NBFIs stood at just 4% of total loans of these entities as recently as March 2014, but this had increased to 27% by December 2015. The case study method used in this study is motivated by the need to understand the strategies that the MFIs are adopting to deal with the issues of non-performing loans in their portfolios. In this research, the conceptualized model has been developed to form the basis and it has been modified according to the Sri Lankan context covering MFI’s categorization. The model has been developed with a comprehensive review of the literature. MFIs will be mainly categorized on the basis of ownership. Then, it will be further subcategorized under the basis of non-profit or profit organizations. Further, it will be filtered according to the mentioned Portfolio at Risk (PAR) classification. Lending method will also be a part of filtering the institutions since it also affects the recovery strategy formulation. The data will be gathered primarily based on in-depth interviews. The findings contributes to both the knowledge domain and the practical domain.
Effect of Financial Literacy on Firm’s Performance of Micro-Enterprises in Sri Lanka (With Special Reference to Gampaha District)
(Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2021) Madhushani, J.M.N.; Abeysekera, R.
Introduction: The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between financial literacy and the firm’s performance of micro-enterprises. This study focused on how financial literacy factors such as financial knowledge, financial behaviour and financial attitude affect the firm’s performance of micro-enterprises in Sri Lanka. Design/Methodology/Approach: The quantitative approach was used to carry out the research and data were collected from 150 micro-enterprises located in the Gampaha District. In this study, the main source of the data gathering approach was questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, independent sample T-test, ANOVA test, and multiple regression were used to analyze the survey data using the SPSS software. Findings: The study findings demonstrate that financial knowledge, financial behaviour and financial attitude significantly impact the firm’s performance of the micro-enterprises. The study's adjusted R square is 84.4 per cent which indicates that the financial literacy elements in this study explain 84.4 per cent of financial literacy on a firm’s performance. Conclusion: According to the research findings, financial literacy has a bigger impact on microenterprises’ performance. As a result, the researcher proposes that the efforts be expanded to offer micro-entrepreneurs a higher degree of financial literacy through training and skill development.
Evaluating Financial Literacy among Undergraduates: Empirical Evidence from the University of Kelaniya
(Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya, 2021) Samarasekara, M.A.G.I.; Abeysekera, M.A.G.I.,; Abeysekera, R.
In Sri Lanka, there is a considerable disparity between print literacy and financial literacy. Furthermore, Sri Lankan research has not paid enough attention to measuring financial literacy among university students. This research, therefore, fills the gap in financial literacy studies. This study aims to examine the degree of financial literacy among University of Kelaniya undergraduates. The research looks at how demographic factors including age, faculty, year of study, gender, and income level impact undergraduates' financial literacy levels and if there is a correlation between financial literacy and demographic factors. To accomplish the aim of this research, the researcher gathered information from 400 university students in different faculties and years. In this study, the primary technique of data collection is through questionnaires. For data analysis, descriptive statistics, independent sample T-test, ANOVA test, and Probit regression were utilized, with SPSS as the statistical software. The overall mean percentage of correct answers in the survey is 60.29 per cent, indicating that University of Kelaniya students have a moderate level of financial literacy. The hypothesis test demonstrated that three factors, namely gender, faculty, and income level, significantly impacted financial literacy. This study helps further research the university student population by providing a reference point for potential researchers. Furthermore, the findings of this study will motivate key stakeholders to improve students' financial literacy
Examining The Barriers to The Microfinance Sector: Evidence from Padukka Division Sri Lanka
(Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya Sri Lanka, 2022) Hansani, W.A.; Abeysekera, R.
Purpose: Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) provide services to low-income people to alleviate poverty. MFIs face barriers when reaching out to clients. This research aims to examine the barriers to the microfinance sector in the Padukka division of Sri Lanka. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study used the multiple case study method. Four MFIs were selected for the study. Data were gathered by conducting 12 in-depth interviews of managers, officers, and clients from selected MFIs. The data were analysed by using crosscase analysis and pattern matching. Findings: Supply-side and demand-side barriers were identified. Supply-side barriers are Deposit side barriers, loan-side barriers, and lack of knowledge, Demand-side barriers are lack of knowledge, non-membership, and economic barriers. Originality: The findings contribute to the microfinance domain, and the practitioners could implement the recommendations.
Exploring Barriers and Opportunities Faced by Banking Sector When Adopting Fin-Tech Innovations
(Department of Finance, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2025) Swarnathilake, P. G. O. K.; Abeysekera, R.
Introduction: FinTech innovations have transformed the banking industry by increasing efficiency in services and improving customer satisfaction, while reaching a greater number of the unbanked population. However, in Sri Lanka, the potential benefits of FinTech are curtailed by regulatory constraints, cybersecurity concerns, and resistance to change. This paper analyzes the dynamics of these challenges and opportunities, focusing on actionable solutions for successful FinTech integration in the Sri Lankan banking sector. Methodology: This qualitative research has been designed under a social constructivist framework; the data collection method adopted in this study is semi-structured interviews with nine representatives of different banks. The respondents have been chosen using purposive sampling in order to capture the diversity in private, government, and foreign banks. Thematic analysis was employed to identify patterns and themes pertaining to FinTech adoption barriers and opportunities. Findings: Opportunities: 1.Efficiency and Automation: Reduction in operational costs; smoother processes. 2.Customer-Centric Innovation: Personalized finance services; AI-driven support. 3.Financial Inclusion: Increasing access to the rural and under-served sections of society. 4.Improving Payment Systems: Speedier and more secure digital transactions. Challenges: 1.Regulatory Barriers: Vagueness and outdated frameworks. 2.Cybersecurity Risks: Growing vulnerability with digitization. 3.Resistance to Change: From both employees and customers. 4.Infrastructure Gaps: Inadequate connectivity in rural areas. Conclusion: This study brings to light that while FinTech offers transformative opportunities for Sri Lankan banks, overcoming significant barriers is essential for successful integration. Investments in infrastructure, digital literacy programs, and regulatory reform are vital to leveraging FinTech's potential for efficiency, inclusion, and customer satisfaction.
Exploring Business Development Services Provided by Microfinance Institutions in Sri Lanka.
(Department of Finance, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2025) Bandara, A. G. M. P. I.; Abeysekera, R.
Introduction: Microfinance institutions (MFIs) play a key role in empowering marginalized communities by providing financial and non-financial support to enhance entrepreneurial growth and economic development. In Sri Lanka, MFIs address capital constraints and enhance entrepreneurial growth and capacity through Business Development Services (BDS), including training, mentoring and market facilitation. This study examines the types of Business Development Services offered by MFIs in Sri Lanka, delivery methods, barriers faced by MFIs and strategies to enhance the sustainability of micro and small enterprises. Methodology: Following a qualitative approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews with senior officials from five leading MFIs in Sri Lanka. Thematic analysis was used to identify key patterns and insights. Findings: The study categorizes BDS as advisory services, agricultural training, and digital market linkages, delivered individual workshops, field officers, and partnerships. Challenges like resource constraints and workforce retention are addressed through collaboration, staff training, and community education initiatives. Conclusion: BDS from MFIs leads to micro enterprise growth by improving financial literacy, market access, and efficiency. Despite challenges, effective delivery and collaboration increase impact. The study contributes to understanding the role of MFIs in economic development and provides policymakers with actionable insights to strengthen the microfinance sector in Sri Lanka.
Exploring Strategies to Establish an Effective Organizational Culture to Enhance Corporate Performance: A Proposed Business Model
(Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2020) Pathiranage, Y. L.; Jayatilake, L.V. K.; Abeysekera, R.
Maintaining an effective organizational culture within the corporate group is indeed a must to enhance organizational performance and shareholder return. A qualitative study is proposed to explore the prominent strategies that one corporate group deploys to establish an effective organizational culture to enhance performance. Denison's organizational culture model served as the theoretical underpinning for the study. The research problem of the study is, “What strategies do senior managers deploy to establish an effective organizational culture to enhance performance?”. The research problem is addressed through four research questions. The literature review of this study synthesizes the renowned literature pertaining to the role of organizational culture on business performance in a perspective of the corporate group. The literature review comprises various published sources on organizational culture, such as journals, periodicals, seminal books, and other published materials. An exploratory single-case study design is used for the study. A purposive sample of 20 senior managers from a leading corporate group in Sri Lanka participated in semi structured face-to-face interviews. The corporate group selected for the study has 47 companies which belong to six main sectors, as it is one of the largest corporate groups in Sri Lanka. The chosen participants conform the criteria of a minimum of 05 years of experience with strategies in establishing an effective organizational culture in the corporate group. The findings of this study would be useful to business managers in the corporate sector who face challenges in enhancing performance of their organizations. Moreover, this study would reveal a new model for business managers to enhance corporate performance by establishing an effective organizational culture.
Exploring the Barriers and Challenges of Social Entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka; in the Good Market
(Department of Finance, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2025) Bandara, M. M. T. D. T.; Abeysekera, R.
Introduction: This study aims to explore social entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka with special reference to the Good Market. Specifically, it seeks to understand the impact of three factors: success factors, challenges and barriers, and sustainability factors on social entrepreneurs in good markets (triple bottom line). By delving into these dimensions, the study aims to provide a clear understanding of the complex interplay between these factors and social entrepreneurship in the good market. Methodology: The study takes a qualitative-inductive approach using semi-structured interviews with 10 social entrepreneurs from different types of businesses in the Good Market. The study method uses purposive sampling methods, collecting data through direct interviews and then analyzing it using thematic analysis. Findings: This study reveals that the success factors of social giving (skill development and knowledge acquisition, support system, experience and expertise, self-motivation), challenges and barriers (financial challenges, market and trade barriers, communication challenges, operational challenges), and sustainable factors (product excellence, sustainable practices, financial management, social responsibility, and employee development) positively and negatively influence social entrepreneurs in the Good Market. This article also incorporates new findings that can be categorized under the three factors mentioned above, focusing on the responses of social entrepreneurs. Conclusion: The findings of this study provide a comprehensive understanding of the Sri Lankan Good Market social entrepreneurs. The study highlights the barriers faced by social entrepreneurs and identifies enabling factors for success. Removing the barriers faced by social entrepreneurs can promote sustainability and have long-term impacts on the country’s economic growth and society. These findings provide a wealth of knowledge for stakeholders and policymakers interested in social entrepreneurship in developing countries like Sri Lanka.
Exploring the Barriers in Developing Social Innovation and Sustainopreneurship in Sri Lanka
(Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya., 2021) Perera, J.; Abeysekera, R.
The interconnection between innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development is a subject of immense concern these days, as society considers answers leading to sustainable development. Further, Social Innovations play a significant role in the development of Sustainopreneurship in the context of sustainable development. Given this context; this study investigates the barriers in developing the Social Innovation and Sustainopreneurship barriers in Sri Lanka. The study used the multiple case study method, and data were collected via in-depth interviews with fifteen Sustainopreneurs in Sri Lanka. The study's findings reveal several barriers in developing Social Innovations and Sustainopreneurship as; a) competition arises from non-sustainable businesses, b) lack of government support, c) high prices, and d) people’s attitude towards Social Innovations and Sustainopreneurship. Due to the dearth of research conducted on this area, this study contributes to the Social Innovations and Sustainopreneurship literature. The recommendations provide useful information for future strategic developments to practitioners and policymakers.
Exploring the Effectiveness of Microfinance in Promoting Microenterprises Growth – Special Reference with Gampaha District
(Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2021) Wickramasinghe, W.A.M.N.; Abeysekera, R.
Introduction: Access to microfinance is necessary to create an economic environment that enables Micro-Enterprises to grow and prosper. Therefore, the researcher wants to find out the factors that would contribute to this. This research study explores the effectiveness of microfinance in promoting microenterprises growth from the Gampaha District evidence. Design/Methodology/Approach: The researcher has purposively selected four microfinance institutions in Gampaha, and data were gathered based on the twelve in-depth interviews through a semi-structured questionnaire. Findings: The findings reveal that Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) provide microcredit to existing businesses rather than start-ups. Further, they provide mainly financial services overlooking non-financial services. Moreover, they prefer to use individual lending over group lending. MFIs use business expansions, income and profitability, employability and asset growth as the yardsticks to measure the effectiveness of microfinance programmes. Conclusion: The findings will help the development of microfinance institutions and achieve microenterprises owners’ objectives
Exploring the Financial Literacy Programmes Delivered by the Sri Lankan Micro Finance Institutions: A Case Study Approach
(International Conference on Business and Information (ICBI – 2019), [Accounting, Finance and Economics], Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies, University of Kelaniya Sri Lanka, 2019) Premarathne, W.G.I.D.; Abeysekera, R.
Global Financial Literacy Survey done by the Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services reveal that in 2014 only 35% of adults are financially literate in Sri Lanka. There is a dearth of researches covering this critical area using a qualitative approach. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to focus on the critical, yet an under-researched dimension of MF, the intercession of MFIs in delivering FL to the MF clientele focusing on the profiles such as delivering channels, importance, constraints, and strategies to address. Multiple case study method was used as the research method. The data were gathered from a purposive sample using in-depth interviews. The findings show that several channels of delivering FL; social mobilization programmes, seminars, training programmes, community committees, and credit societies, and the importance of delivering FL are; enhancement of human capital, the sustainability of industry and firm, upgrade new venture survival, client protection, and social and economic empowerment and development. Further, the barriers to delivering FL; budget, industry competition, inactive participation, clients’ attitudes, inactive regulatory bodies’ contribution, and external barriers were investigated with the strategies adopted in addressing barriers; community awareness, motivational strategies, regulatory framework and cost addressing strategies. Findings of this study have implications for policymakers in paying attention to make a financially literate clientele in the MF discipline.
The factors affecting entrepreneurial intention of MBA students of University of Kelaniya: a qualitative study
(Research Symposium on Pure and Applied Sciences, 2018 Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2018) Basnayake, D. C.; Abeysekera, R.
The purpose of this study is to find out the factors affecting entrepreneurial intention of Kelaniya MBA students. The study was conducted using the case study method. Based on the purposive sampling technique, twelve MBA students and three MBA lecturers were selected to collect the data. Thus the gender, age levels and working sector (i.e. Public or private) of MBA students were considered to select the interviewees. In depth interviews were conducted using a semi structured questionnaire to collect data. Each in depth interview took about one hour. The interview data were tape recorded and transcribed prior to analyzing the data using coding/thematic analysis. The study was guided by the Ajzen’s Theory of Planned Behaviour. In the theory of planned behaviour, Ajzen states that attitude towards the behaviour, subjective norm and perceived control of the behaviour influence the individual’s behavior. The findings of the study show that practical exposure, teamwork, networking, role models, delivery methods, obtained competence, motivation, guidance, capacity building and subjects of the course are major factors which influenced the entrepreneurial intention of the MBA students in University of Kelaniya. The findings contribute to the knowledge and the subject domains.
Factors Affecting Technological Issues in Diary Industry, with Special Reference to the Large-Scale Firms in Sri Lanka
(19th Conference on Postgraduate Research, International Postgraduate Research Conference 2018, Faculty of Graduate Studies,University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2018) Weerasekara, S.; Abeysekera, R.
The development of the Dairy Industry is as an instrument for social and economic advancement of the rural economy, through employment, sustainable income and improved nutrition. The development of this sector will not only help to achieve food security, import substitution or even self-sufficiency in animal products but also prevent the migration of the rural poor to urban areas in search of supposed economic benefits. In order to fulfill this role, however, it is clear that the dairy industry in particular needs to become more efficient in technology perspective. This would provide the incentive for medium- and large-scale entrepreneurs to enter the field and make further investments that are necessary to make the national livestock industry more efficient and modernized. This research’s prime objectiveis to identify the current technological issues faced by the large-scale dairy institutionsin Sri Lanka.For a sustainable development, the dairy industry must look at influences coming from the economic, the political, the socio-cultural and the technological environments. Technology plays a key role in the development of the dairy industry. Hence, this research covers the technological development necessity of the dairy industry. The multiple case study method was used as the research method. The data were collected through in-depth interviews from four major milk processing companies in Sri Lanka. Since the research is focusing on large- scale dairy industries, selected cases were Milco Pvt Ltd, Nestle Lanka PLC, Cargills Dairy Products Pvt Ltd and Lanka Milk Foods Limited. To cover the whole technological aspect of the industry, Engineering Manager, Maintenance Engineer, Production Manager and Dairy Section Heads were selected for thein- depth interviews. The data were analyzed using cross-case synthesis, pattern matching and explanation building techniques. Case study protocol was used to enhance the reliability of the study. The findings of the study reveal that there are many factors affecting technological issues, such as R&D development, lack of financial capability, Plant and Machinery availability, Infrastructure management, Economic development of the country. The recommendations provide useful information to policymakers and practitioners which should help inform future strategies in this field.
Factors and Challenges Affecting the Success of Women Entrepreneurship; A Study in Bakery Products Industry in Northwestern Province of Sri Lanka
(Department of Finance, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies University of Kelaniya Sri Lanka, 2024) Mudalige, M.B.N.; Abeysekera, R.
Introduction: It is frequently recognized that economic growth and wealth are dependent on entrepreneurship and that the number of women entrepreneurs worldwide has significantly increased. The modern world views entrepreneurship as a potent force that promotes productivity, job creation, and economic expansion. This study aims to determine the critical elements and obstacles that impact the performance of female entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka and their ability to manage their businesses and to provide recommendations for the most effective course of action. The primary goal of this study is to identify and analyse the variables and obstacles that could affect how well women entrepreneurs succeed. Methodology: This research followed the social constructivism philosophy to examine the real, and this research is conducted as qualitative research in which data, words, images or objects were collected through the methods of interviews, field notes and participant observations in the evaluations. Also, this study is also associated with the inductive approach. In this research, I used the purposive sampling method. The population is Sri Lankan women business owners who have been active in the bakery products industry in the northwestern province of Sri Lanka for over three years. I identified 10 Sri Lankan women business owners active in the Bakery products industry in the northwestern province of Sri Lanka as a sample. The data collection method is conducting interviews. I could identify four main success factors as main themes, and the findings of challenges are detailed as 20 sub-themes from the interviews conducted. Conclusion: This study goes a step further and explains the factors that influence the success or failure of women entrepreneurs. Hence, it will help women entrepreneurs across Sri Lanka and all stakeholders, like the government, customers, employees, and investors, to make appropriate decisions.
Factors and Challenges Affecting the Success of Women Entrepreneurship; A Study in Salon Industry in Kurunegala District of Sri Lanka
(Department of Finance, Faculty of Commerce and Management Studies University of Kelaniya Sri Lanka, 2024) Dissanayake, D.M.K.L.; Abeysekera, R.
Introduction: Women’s entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka grapples with persistent challenges, stemming from intertwined issues that have impeded historical progress. This study aimed to discover the factors and challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in the salon industry in the Kurunegala district. Methodology: Qualitative methods were used to collect data from interviews with women entrepreneurs in the salon industry. The findings show that a significant obstacle is the limited financial capability of women entrepreneurs, constraining their capacity to invest, expand, and compete effectively. Findings: Insufficient governmental and regulatory frameworks exacerbate these challenges, as a lack of robust support structures hampers the growth and sustainability of women-led enterprises. The need for more reliable evidence and data is a key contributing factor to these impediments. The absence of comprehensive information, often influenced by societal rules and customs, complicates the development of targeted policies and initiatives addressing the specific needs of women entrepreneurs. More accurate data is needed to ensure the formulation of informed strategies to uplift and empower women in business. The nation's status further compounds the challenges women entrepreneurs face in Sri Lanka as a developing country. Women managing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) confront a complex interplay of financial constraints, regulatory limitations, and a need for more reliable data. This underscores the urgent need for comprehensive and tailored interventions to address these unique challenges. Conclusion: Bolstering women's entrepreneurship in Sri Lanka requires initiatives encompassing targeted financial support, reforms in governmental and regulatory frameworks, and the generation of reliable data reflecting diverse rules and customs in business environments. By addressing these challenges directly, Sri Lanka can create an environment conducive to the success and sustainability of women-led businesses, contributing to individual economic empowerment and broader societal development.
Factors influencing employee job satisfaction leading to organizational effectiveness(with special reference to polymer based manufacturing industry in the western
(Research Symposium 2009 - Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Kelaniya, 2009) Douglas, M.H.; Abeysekera, R.
During the recent past, organizations in the Polymer Based Manufacturing Industry (PBMI) in the Western Province (WP) experienced a setback in the Organizational Effectiveness (OE) due to higher labour turnover, absenteeism and lower job satisfaction. It was found that end variables of OE such as production, cost, sales, and earning and management-union relationships were at low ebb. The literature suggested that Employee Job Satisfaction (EJS) has an impact on OE. Therefore, the objectives of this research were (1) to identify the factors influencing EJS leading to OE. (2) to design effective conceptual framework to test the data empirically. (3) to critically analyze the data using statistical techniques and methods (4) to offer possible conclusion and recommendations toward enhancing EJS leading to OE in the PBMI in the WP. The researchers selected eighty employees in the senior, middle and non managerial levels from three companies in this industry and they were served with a questionnaire designed under likert method. The results were analyzed using multivariate analysis, ANOVA, likert mean and standard deviation. The key conclusion arising from the analysis was that pay and promotion had a greater impact on the level of EJS leading to OE. The Researchers believe that other important variables which were not accounted for the unexplained variation in the OE may be leadership, organizational culture, people management, and management style and total quality management. It is recommended to introduce effective strategic human resource management with good corporate planning process and management of change, giving more weightage to pay and promotion to achieve OE for long term sustainability of this industry.