13th Students’ Research Symposium 2023/2024

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    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 Challenges: 1.Regulatory Barriers: Vagueness and outdated frameworks. 2.Cybersecurity Risks: Growing vulnerability with digitization. 3.Resistance to Change: From both employees and customers. 4.Infrastructure Gaps: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.
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    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.
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    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.