The Department of Finance was established with the restructuring of the Faculty of Management and Finance in 2007. This department facilitates a Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) in Finance program to its students with academic capabilities and good professional practices. The degree program was developed focusing on skills needed for the corporate sector, both local and global. The Department of Finance is staffed with highly qualified academics who provide enormous opportunities for students to sharpen their knowledge and skills. Moreover, the department shares the experience of industry experts to nurture the students. The BBA in Finance honours degree will be a lifelong asset for the students for their career development and betterment of their personal life with the capability to play in any functional area of an organization and sector as a whole.

 

Message from the Head of the Department

Dr. Tharindu C. Ediriwickrama

I am glad to welcome all of you to the official website of the Department of Finance, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo.

The Department of Finance offers Bachelors of Business Administration (Honours) in Finance degree which is a widely demanded degree programme among undergraduates of the Faculty of Management and Finance. The curriculum of the BBA (Honours) in Finance degree covers comprehensive set of subjects in the discipline of finance. Further, the Department of Finance understands the dynamic nature of the finance discipline and takes necessary steps to inculcate the industry trends and new knowledge to the curriculum time to time.

The Department of Finance offers students to engage in research together with well qualified teaching staff during their final year of the degree. Further, the Department provides an industrial training for finance undergraduates in various industries of the financial sector such as banking, insurance, capital markets, diversified financial services, fund management and many more. All these initiatives will contribute to develop productive finance graduates to the industry as well as Sri Lanka which is a vital need in the today’s context. The Department has produced many numbers of graduates from its inception and now they are serving in esteemed positions in both public and private sectors.

I warmly welcome all of you again to the Department of Finance to have a vibrant and enthusiastic learning experience in the world of finance.

Former Heads of the Department

Professor  D.L.P.M. Rathnasingha (2020-2023)

Dr. S Buvanendra (2017-2020)

Mr. DMS Dassanayake (2008-2011)

Professor. AA Azeez (2007-2008, 2011-2014,2014-2017)

 

Academic Staff 

Emeritus Professor P. S. M. Gunaratne

[PhD and MSc (Tsukuba, Japan), MBA (Col), BSc (Bus. Ad.) (SJP), Commonwealth Fellow (Manchester UK), JSPS Fellow (Yokohama, Japan)]

Emeritus Professor

Professor A. A. Azeez

[PhD (YNU, Japan), MBA (Col), BCom (Peradeniya), Japan Foundation Fellow (Waseda University, Japan)]

Professor

Professor S. Buvanendra

[PhD (India), MBA (Col), BBA (Jaffna), CTHE (Col), Australian Award Fellow (Monash University, Australia), Commonwealth Fellow (Pondicherry University, India)]

Professor

Associate Professor DLPM Rathnasingha

[PhD (Malaysia), MBA (Col), BBA (Col), CTHE (Col)]

Professor

Mr. D. M. S. Dassanayake

[MBA (AIT, Bangkok), BCom (Col)]

Senior Lecturer 

Ms. D. K. T. N. Gunadeera

[MBA (Col), BBA (Col), CTHE (Col), SEDA (UK), Reading for PhD (QUT – Brisbane,  Australia)]

Senior Lecturer (On Study Leave )

Ms. K. G. K. Fernando

[MBA (Col), BBA (Col), CTHE (Col), SEDA (UK), FCPM, DTM (USA)]

Senior Lecturer (On Study Leave)

Dr. Tharindu C. Ediriwickrama

PhD (Col), MBA (ICFAI, India), BSc. Finance (SJP), CTHE (Col), SEDA (UK)]

Senior Lecturer

Ms. T. P. Rathnasuriya

MBA (PIM, SJP), BSc. Finance (SJP), DBF (Passed Finalist) (IBSL), CTHE (Col), SEDA (UK)]

Senior Lecturer

Mr. H.A.P.K. Perera

[MBA in Finance (Col), BBA (Col), CTHE (Col), SEDA (UK), CIMA (passed finalist), Reading for PhD (New Zealand)]

Senior Lecturer (Transitional) (on study leave)

Ms. S.W. Thenuwara

[MBA (PIM, SJP), BBA (Col), ACPM, AIB, CBA, Reading for MPhil (UOC)]

Lecturer 

Ms.  Udeshika Pathirana

[Msc. (in Applied Finance-R)(USJP),BBA (Col)]

Lecturer (Probationary)

Ms. Dulni Wanya Gooneratne

[BBA (Col), Reading for MBA (Col), CIMA (Passed Finalist), CIM (Passed Finalist).]

Lecturer (Probationary)

Ms. P.W.S. Sithumini

[ BBM (Finance) (Kel’ya), Reading for M.sc (SJP), Reading for CASL ]

Temporary Assistant Lecturer

Visiting Faculty

Name Affiliation Subject
Mr. N. A. Prageeth Rukshan Visiting Lecturer,  Faculty of Management and Finance, UOC  

FIN4238 Taxation

Mr. S. B. Jayasekara. Visiting Lecturer,  Faculty of Management and Finance, UOC FIN 4237

Auditing

Dr.B. M.  Semantha Dilina Visiting Lecturer,  Faculty of Management and Finance, UOC FIN3234

E-Business

Non Academic Staff 

Mr. E.K.P.O Epitawela

Management Assistant

Mr. U. K. D. L. M. Chaminda

Program Assistant

Mr. S. Abeykoon

Workaide

Bachelors of Business Administration (Honours) Degree in Finance.

Course Code Course Title Credits Course Status Semester Offered
FIN – 3312 Research Methods 3 Core V
FIN – 3228 Management Information Systems 2 Core V
FIN – 3313 Corporate Finance 3 Specialisation core V
FIN – 3314 Management Science Application 3 Specialisation core V
FIN – 3315 Theory and Practice of Banking 3 Specialisation core V
FIN – 3229 Business Ethics and Corporate Governance 2 Specialisation optional V
FIN – 3230 Financial Mathematics 2 Specialisation optional V
FIN – 3231 Microfinance 2 Specialisation optional V
FIN – 3316 Strategic Management 3 Core VI
FIN – 3207 Enterprise Based Project 2 Core VI
FIN – 3317 Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management 3 Specialisation core VI
FIN – 3208 Seminar on Applied Research 2 Specialisation core* VI
FIN – 3209 Seminar on Research 2 Specialisation core* VI
FIN – 3232 Financial Econometrics 2 Specialisation core VI
FIN – 3233 Behavioural Finance 2 Specialisation optional VI
FIN – 3234 e-Business 2 Specialisation optional VI
FIN – 3235 Financial Reporting and Analysis 2 Specialisation optional VI
FIN – 3236 Financial Sector Development and Regulations 2 Specialisation optional VI
FIN – 4237 Auditing 2 Specialisation core VII
FIN – 4238 Taxation 2 Specialisation core VII
FIN – 4800 Dissertation 8 Specialisation core** VII
FIN – 4600 Applied Research Project 6 Specialisation core** VII
FIN – 4239 Business Valuations 2 Specialisation optional VII
FIN – 4240 Derivatives and Alternative Investments 2 Specialisation optional VII
FIN – 4241 Fixed Income Securities 2 Specialisation optional VII
FIN – 4242 International Financial Management 2 Specialisation optional VII
FIN – 4243 Risk Management and Insurance 2 Specialisation optional VII
FIN – 4801 Industrial Training 8 Specialisation core VIII

Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) in Finance is an undergraduate programme that has designed considering both academic capabilities and good professional practices. The BBA (Honours) in Finance degree will be a lifelong asset for the students for their career development and betterment of their personal life with capability to play in functional areas of an organization and the sector as a whole making a gateway to numerous job opportunities in a plethora of sectors.

NEW: Masters in Applied Finance (MAF)

Masters in Applied Finance (MAF)

The Masters in Applied Finance (MAF) is specifically designed to equip postgraduate students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills to thrive in the financial services industry. The course offered in MAF will discuss contemporary issues in the financial markets with a pragmatic and analytical approach.

Objectives of MAF

  1. To provide students with comprehensive and contemporary knowledge in a practical approach.
  2. To inculcate essential skills and competencies to climb up the career ladder in the financial services industry.
  3. To develop finance professionals with the analytical skills and knowledge aiming to contribute to the financial services industry in both local and international contexts.

Duration:- one academic year (trimesters with four months duration each)

Programme structure:- 

  • Trimester I – Four (04) courses
  • Trimester II – Five (05) Courses
  • Trimester III – Three (03) Courses with an independent study

 

For more information please contact,

Course Coordinators – Professor S. Buvanendra, Dr. Tharindu C. Ediriwickrama

Email: maf@dfn.cmb.ac.lk

Office: 0112501294

mobile: 0714856529,0773647365

Postgraduate Diploma in Banking and Finance (PGDBF)

Recent growth and developments in the financial services sector in Sri Lanka have created a great demand for professionally trained individuals in the area of banking and finance. However, there is a huge skill mismatch and shortage in the financial services sector.  After establishing the Department of Finance in the Faculty of Management and Finance, the University of Colombo has produced more than 1000 finance graduates over the past 10 years. Most of them are performing exceptionally well in all types of institutions in the financial services sector in Sri Lanka as well as abroad. With this experience and considering the opportunities available in the labor market, the Department of Finance has introduced the Postgraduate Diploma Program in Banking and Finance as a means of addressing skill mismatch and shortages stated earlier. The programme also anticipates forging partnerships with the industry with a view to strengthening finance education at the undergraduate level.

 

Objectives of the program

  1. To provide participants with knowledge and skills for contributing to the smooth running of the financial services sector in Sri Lanka
  2. To build competencies in participants to undertake high impact research in the area of banking and finance
  3. To develop the capabilities of participants those who wish to pursue further advanced postgraduate studies in the field of banking and finance.

 

Structure of the program

 The program proposed is of one-year duration and divided into three trimesters as follows:

Trimester Courses offered Number of credits
First Trimester Four compulsory courses – 03 credits each  12
Second Trimester Four compulsory courses – 02 credits each   8
Third Trimester Two compulsory courses and 02 elective courses – 02 credits each   8
  Group Research Project   2
  Total credits  30

For more information contact:

Courser Coordinator – Dr. Tharindu C. Ediriwickrama

Email: pgdbf@dfn.cmb.ac.lk

Office: 0112501294

mobile: 0773647365

Diploma in Finance (DipFIN)

The Diploma in Finance is aimed at providing a strong foundation for those who requires a skill development and career progression in Finance. Moreover, the programme intends to create enthusiasm among individuals to strengthen their finance education while filling the skill gap prevailing in the market at present.

OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME

  1. To provide participants with an overall understanding of key areas in the discipline of finance.
  2. To enhance the knowledge in finance while providing opportunities for the participants to understand their practical application in the business environment.
  3. Building competencies among the participants to seek better prospects
  4. in the field of finance.
Duration One Academic Year (Consisting Two Semesters)
 

Programme Structure

Semester I    – Five compulsory modules (03 credits each)

Semester II   – Five compulsory modules (03 credits each)

Total     = 30 credits

Lecture Dates Weekends
Lecture Mode Hybrid (Online/Onsite)
Medium English
Total Investment Rs.125,000 /= payable in two installments (excluding application fees, registration fees, examination fees and library deposits)

For further inquiries please contact;

Course Coordinator DipFin,

Department of Finance,

Faculty of Management and Finance,

University of Colombo, Colombo 03.

Tele: +94-112- 501294/ +94 779041298

Email:  diploma-finance@fmf.cmb.ac.lk

 

CFA Sri Lanka Research Challenge 2023/2024

The students of the Department of Finance, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo emerged as the “Champions” at the CFA Research Challenge Sri Lanka 2023/2024 on 27th February 2024 held at the Colombo Stock Exchange. The team also secured the “Best Equity Research Report Award” which was introduced for the first time in the competition.

This is the seventh time student teams brought glory to the University from the same competition. They have emerged champions four times and first runners-up twice previously.

The CFA Research Challenge is a global competition that focuses on business valuation. There were 25 university teams representing both national and private universities in Sri Lanka participating in this year’s competition. The winning team was led by Manusha Kandanaarachchi including Sajini Kaushalya, Hasna Imtikhab, Melissa Ranatunga, and Pramita Perera. Ms. Senani Thenuwara, Lecturer of the Department of Finance served as the Faculty Advisor.

 

Magnate 2023

The Department of Finance of the Faculty of Management and Finance recently hosted its annual flagship event, ‘Magnate-2023’ for the third time under the theme “Leading with Vision, Thriving with Finance”. The event was organized by the Finance Students’ Association (FSA) of The Department of Finance and it was held on August 25th, 2023 at the auditorium of the Faculty, with the main objective of providing an opportunity for students’ capability and capacity building.
The esteemed occasion was graced by Senior Professor (Chair) H.D. Karunaratne, Vice Chancellor of the University, who attended as the Chief Guest. Professor M. P. P. Dharmadasa, the Dean of the Faculty was also in attendance at the event. It was an all-day event which comprised an inter-university debate with the participation of 07 teams from 04 universities namely the University of Colombo, the University of Jaffna, the University of Sabaragamuwa and the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. There were 3 rounds in the debate competition and the final round was held on the event day on the topic “Sri Lankan financial culture has caused the current economic crisis”. The topics for the first round and the semifinal round of the debate competition were “Brain drain is the biggest challenge for the Sri Lankan economy at present” and “Cryptocurrency is a threat to the stability of the financial system of South Asian countries” respectively. Adding to the day’s success, an intra-faculty quiz competition also took place successfully with the participation of 13 teams with three members in each from the Faculty of Management and Finance of the University of Colombo, irrespective of their department or year of study.
Mr Dilshan Weerasekara, the Chairman of the Colombo Stock Exchange, and Director/CEO at First Capital Holdings PLC graced the event as the guest of honour and the keynote speaker of the event. Mr Nandana Wickramage, the Director of Ceylon Biscuits Limited conducted an interactive and enlightening session on self-motivation. The successful execution of Magnate 2023 was made possible under the guidance and leadership of the Head Department of Finance Professor D. L. P. M. Rathnasingha and the event was coordinated by Mrs T. P. Rathnasuriya, while Professor S. Buvanendra contributed as the Senior Treasurer of the Finance Students’ Association. The debate event was organized by Ms S.W. Thenuwara and Ms R. P. U. S. Pathirana, while the quiz competition was organized by Dr Tharindu C. Ediriwickrama and Ms D. W. Gooneratne where Dr T. U. Hewage from the Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science, served as the quiz master. Professor A. A. Azeez and Mr D. M. S. Dassanayake, along with other staff members, contributed significantly in various capacities, making this event a resounding success.
The event received generous support from various industry institutions; the Official title partner- First Capital Holdings PLC, Corporate partner- Hayleys Advantis, Event partners – CIMA Sri Lanka and Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka, Banner partners – Commercial Bank, Terminal Logistics, LCB Finance and Asiri Surgical Hospitals, Media partner- TV Derana. The FMF media also joined with the event.

2nd Finance Undergraduate Research Symposium (FURS) 2023

The 2nd Finance Undergraduate Research Symposium (FURS) 2023 was held successfully on 14th June 2023 in the Faculty Premises. Eight extended abstracts were selected out of more than 30 extended abstracts of the final-year students. Selected students presented their extended abstracts to a panel of reviewers under two tracks; Corporate Governance and Asset Pricing and Market Efficiency. The panel of reviewers comprised industry experts as well as academic staff of the department

Guest Sessions on Valuation

Ms. Samanmalie Herath and Mr. Gamika Senevirathne of Acuity Knowledge Partners conducted two insightful guest lectures that delved into the essential concepts of valuation in the realm of finance. The lectures were held at the faculty premises on 05th June and 12th June, mainly focussing on two fundamental valuation methods, relative valuation and discounted cash flow (DCF) valuation. The session served as an excellent platform for learning about the theoretical foundations and practical aspects of valuation, leaving participants better equipped to navigate the complexities of financial analysis and decision-making.

Awrudu Kama Mesaya 2023

Third year and fourth year students of the Department organized an Awrudu Kama Mesaya on 19th of April 2023 for the lecturers, non-academic staff members, and all the students at Department of Finance. The New Year table was filled with traditional sweetmeats and all celebrated the happiness of the Sinhala and Hindu New Year sharing good vibes.

“Prabhathaya” Awareness Program on SLBC

The Head of the Department of Finance, Professor Prasath Rathnasingha conducted an awareness program in Swadeshiya Sewaya of the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) on 07th of March 2023. The awareness program was on “Financial Management and Women” which provided many thoughtful insights on the role of women in managing finances

Skill Development Outbound Training Program

A skill development outbound training (OBT) program was organized by Capital Alliance on 24th of January 2023 for the undergraduate students of the Department of Finance. The OBT program provided an opportunity to third year and fourth year students to interact with industry people and to build networks. During the training, students were able to boost their leadership skills and team building skills while working on quick decision making and teamwork.

Experience sharing of “Magnate 2022” on SLBC

Sarasawi Ras Walalla in Swadeshiya Sewaya of the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) is a radio program dedicated to university students which is a production of Mrs. Priyanthi Gamage Yahampath. Finance Students’ Association (FSA) of Department of Finance, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo got an opportunity to contribute for a Sarasavi Ras Walalla program on 12th of November, 2022. The Head of the Department of Finance, Professor Prasath Rathnasingha, Mrs. Manojee Domingo, Mrs. Senani Thenuwara along with Finance Students’ Association members Mr. Manusha Hirumal, Ms. Hirani Amugoda and Ms. Dinani Nathasha participated for the program. This program mainly focused on the extra-curricular activities carried out by the finance department, and especially on the Magnate 2022 event and the experiences gained there.

This was a great opportunity for the Finance Students’ Association and the Department of Finance to showcase their contribution towards students’ capability and capacity building.

Magnate 2022

The Department of Finance, Faculty of Management and Finance of the University of Colombo recently organized its flagship annual event ‘Magnate-2022’ for the second consecutive time under the theme of “Finance in a Dynamic World,” which was held on 7th October 2022 at the Auditorium of the Faculty of Management and Finance, which executed by the Finance Students’ Association (FSA) with main objective to provide an opportunity for students’ capability and capacity building. Senior Professor (Chair) H. D. Karunarathna, Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo, graced the event as Chief guest and was accompanied by Professor M. P. P. Dharmadasa, the Dean of the faculty. It was an all-day event which comprised of an inter-university debate with the participation of 06 university teams including University of Colombo, University of Jaffna, University of Sabaragamuwa, Eastern University of Sri Lanka, and University of Sri Jayewardenepura, on the theme of “Tax increase will recover the economic crisis in Sri Lanka” in the semi-final round and “Adoption of Fintech in emerging markets: an opportunity or a challenge for Sri Lanka?” in the final round. Moreover, an intra-faculty quiz competition also took place successfully with the participation of 10 teams with three members in each from the Faculty of Management and Finance, the University of Colombo, irrespective of their department or year of study.

Mr. Ramesh Schaffter, Chief executive officer of Janashakthi PLC attended the event as the guest of honour and the keynote speaker of the event. Dr. Ranil Sugthadasa, Senior lecturer at the University of Moratuwa, conducted a very interactive eye-opening session on self-motivation.

Magnate 2022 was organized under the direction and leadership of the Head Department of Finance and coordinated by Dr. E. M. Nishani Ekanayake. Dr. S. Buvanendra contributed as the Senior treasurer of the Finance Students’ Association. The debate event was organized by Ms. D.D.A.S.M. Domingo and Ms. S.W. Thenuwara, while the quiz competition was organized by Dr. Tharindu C. Ediriwickrama and Ms. T.K.E.M. Probodini. Dr. T. U. Hewage from the Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science, served as the quiz master. The other staff members, Prof. A. A. Azeez, Mr. D. M. S. Dassanayake, Ms. K. G. K. Fernando, Ms. T. P. Rathnasuriya, and Ms. Nimali Uluwita contributed in numerous ways.

Various industry institutions joined with the event as the Official title partner- Janashakthi Group. Corporate partners- Colombo Stock Exchange and Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka, Event partner- ACCA, Photography and digital media partner- Create Masters, Media partner- Colombo Beacon, and Broadcasting partner- Swadesiya Sewaya. The FMF media too joined with the event.

Best Paper Awards – 2022

The Second Annual International Emerging Financial Markets and Policy Conference (EFMP 2022) was held successfully on 17 th June 2022 and organized by Sri Lanka Finance Association (SLFA). The Department of Finance congratulated the students and the staff of the Department for their achievement of the Best Paper Awards. It is also remarkable that all three Awardees from the Department.Accordingly, the best papers are:

1. “Impact of Psychological Factors on Financial Wellbeing of Equity Investors in SriLanka: Mediating Role of Financial Behavior” by R. Thuraisingam, Jaffna, Sri Lanka, S. Buvanendra, Department of Finance, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka and Ganga Fernando, Department of Finance, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka.

2. “The Effect of Financial Innovations on Bank Performance: Evidence from Commercial Banks of Sri Lanka” by N.A. Dissanayake, Department of Finance,University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, and Nishani Ekanayake, Department of Finance,University of Colombo, Sri Lanka.

3. “Impact of Financial Literacy on Business Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Sri Lanka: A Domain Vise Analysis” by K.H.G.U.S. Jayasinghe,Department of Finance, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka and D.D.A.S. Manojee Domingo, Department of Finance, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Best Paper Awards – 2021

1. Mrs. D.D.A.S.Manojee Domingo and Dr. S. Buvanendra, Department of Finance, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka won the Best Paper Award for the research paper titled “The Mediating Role of Financial Self-Efficacy between Social Determinants and Personal Finance Behavior of Women within Microfinance sector of Sri Lanka” presented at the 1st Global Conference on Innovations  in Management and Business (GCIMB 2021) organized by the Chapman University,California, USA, Howard University, Washington,D.C., USA and National University of Technology, Warrangal,India under the track of Financial Management and Investment. Published on 28th July 2021 (ISBN 978-1-953224-01-9).

2. Ms. U. N. Amarasekara, Department of Finance, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka and Mrs. T.P. Rathnasuriya, Department of Finance, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka won the Outstanding Paper Award for the research paper titled “Do firms desperate for growth overpay for Acquisitions? Evidence from Sri Lankan Listed Firms” presented at the Finance Track of the 6th Interdisciplinary Conference of Management Researchers (6th ICMR), conducted by Faculty of Management Studies, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka in association with Emerald Publishing on 16th December 2021.

Webinar on “the importance of Quality, Safety and Standardization”

The Department of Finance together with Sri Lanka Standards Institution (SLSI) organized an online awareness session on the 27th of June 2022 on the importance of Quality, Safety and Standardization. This session aimed to provide a basic understanding for the students on the multifaceted services provided by the Sri Lanka Standards Institution as the National Standards Body representing Sri Lanka in ISO. Ms. Mihiri Salgado (Deputy Director, SLSI) , Ms. Amila Fernando (Assistant Director, SLSI) and Ms. Nirmala De Zoisa (Deputy Director, SLSI) were the resource persons of this event.

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Webinar on “Career Opportunities in Capital Market for Interns and Graduates

The Department of Finance has organized a webinar on 08 th of July 2022 titled, “CareerOpportunities: In Capital Market for Interns and Graduates”. Ms. Rochelle Mortier, Chief
Human Resources Officer at Capital Alliance Limited, Ms. Thanuri Thalagala, Chief Operating Officer at Frontier Research and Mr. Nuwan Jayawardana, Director, Investment Research at Acuity Knowledge Partners were the main resource persons of this webinar. The aim of the webinar was providing insights for the graduates and undergraduates of the faculty, on career opportunities and career pathways available in above mentioned companies.

1st Finance Undergraduate Research Symposium (FURS) 2022 

The 1st Finance Undergraduate Research Symposium (FURS) 2022 was held successfully on 25th January 2022 via online mode. Seven extended abstracts were selected out of more than 50 extended abstracts of the final year students. Selected students presented their extended abstracts to a panel of reviewers under two tracks; Corporate Governance and Asset Pricing and Market Efficiency. The panel of reviewers comprised industry experts as well as academic staff of the department. 

Webinar on “Ways to Use Excel in Financial Decisions”

A webinar was conducted by the Department of Finance on 24th September 2021 via Zoom on “Ways to Use Excel in Financial Decisions” with the participation of students of the Faculty of Management and Finance. This was conducted by Ms. T. K. E. M. Prabodini, temporary assistant lecturer, Department of Finance, Faculty of Management and Finance.

The webinar aimed to provide a basic understanding for the students on the use of Excel functions and formulas. Further, it covered practical examples allowing participants to get awareness on the outcomes of various financial applications in Excel and how to apply them in practical scenarios.

Webinar on “Email Etiquettes: Best Practices when using Emails”

The Department of Finance organized a webinar on the 15th of September 2021 via Zoom on “Email Etiquettes: Best practices when using emails”. Ms. Manojee Domingo who currently works as a lecturer (probationary) in the Department of Finance, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo was the resource person for the session.

With the participation of students and members of the academic staff, the webinar continued for one and a half hours. The session covered key elements such as the basic writing structure of emails, differences in email writing when dealing with formal and informal participants, key elements in attaching files etc. 

Chillax: An evening of Soothing Relaxation 

An entertainment event, “Chillax: An evening of Soothing Relaxation” was held on 10th June 2021, via Zoom with the participation of third-year, fourth-year students and the academic staff with supporting staff members of the Department of Finance. The purposes of this event were to mark the end of the semester and enhance interaction between students and the academic staff with relaxation. This fun-filled event comprised many games for students and academic staff, along with some aesthetic experience in music.

 

CFA Sri Lanka Research Challenge 2019/20

Students of the Department of Finance, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo emerged first runners-up at the CFA Research Challenge Sri Lanka 2019/20 on the 6th February 2020 at Hilton Colombo Residences. This is the sixth time student’s teams brought glory to the University from the same competition. They have emerged champions four times and first runners-up twice.  

The CFA Research Challenge is a highly competitive and intensive competition that focuses on financial analysis. The winning team led by V. Abharna included T.Pavithra, T.D. Palliyaguru and R.H.N.V.M Silva with Ms. Ganga Fernando, Senior Lecturer from the Department of Finance as the Faculty Advisor.

Webinar on 2021 Government Budget

A webinar was conducted on 3rd December 2020, via Zoom to discuss the Government’s Budget Proposals for 2021. Ms. Charmaine Tillekeratne, Director- Tax services, PWC Sri Lanka, and Ms. Y. M. hewage, Lecturer, Department of Accounting, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo were the resource persons of this event. The webinar was moderated by Dr. D. L. P. M. Rathnasingha, The Head, Department of Finance, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo.

Webinar on Digital Payments and Introduction to FinTech

The Department of Finance organized a webinar on 24th of March 2021 via Zoom on “Digital Payments and Introduction to FinTech”. Mr. Gayal Rupasinghe, the Senior Assistant Director of Payments and Settlements Department, Central Bank of Sri Lanka, was the event resource person.

With the participation of students and members of the academic staff, the webinar continued for three hours. The resource person provided a detailed description of the Sri Lankan digital payment journey and the evolution of payment instruments and payment systems in Sri Lanka. Webinar also covered technology-enabled innovations in Sri Lankan financial services such as Sri Lanka national QR code (LankaQR) and mobile phone-based e-money system.

Workshops for Second Year Undergraduates

Department of Finance, under the subject of Financial Institutions and Markets, organized three workshops for second-year students with the objective of enhancing their knowledge on Capital Market and Personal Financial Planning. These workshops further included personality development programs. The sessions were facilitated by industrial experts on the subject.

Magnate 2019

The Department of Finance organized Magnate 2019 under the theme, ‘Financial Intelligence for Future Magnates’, which was held on the 2nd of August 2019 at the Professor. WM Jayarathne conference hall. The purpose of this event was to enhance the interpersonal, networking, leadership, and communication skills of the undergraduates of State Universities in Sri Lanka. An Inter-University Debate Competition was held between four state universities in Sri Lanka which concluded with the University of Colombo team emerging as the champions and the University of Moratuwa as runners-up. The event also consisted of an IntraFaculty quiz competition with the participation of 17 teams from the faculty where finally the Team Trojan succeeded as winners. 

Outdoor Workshop – 2019

The Department of Finance organizes an outdoor workshop annually for third-year students with the objective of developing and promoting teamwork, leadership, and soft skills among students while enhancing their interrelationships with the academic staff of the department. This workshop was held at Aqua Pearl Lake Resort on 02nd of April 2019 including a guest speaker session on “Skills to face an interview effectively” and various outbound training activities.

CFA Research Challenge – 2019

For the 5th consecutive year, the students from the Department of Finance participated in the CFA Research Challenge 2019 representing the University of Colombo. The team became the national champions at the local challenge competing among many state and private universities in Sri Lanka. The team also participated in the Asia Pacific Regionals of the CFA Institute Research Challenge 2019 representing the country which was held at Hotel Shangri-La, Sydney, Australia from 28th to 30th of March 2019.

Finanzia 24'
Students’ Welcome to the Department of Finance 2024

The Finance Students’ Association (FSA) hosted the annual welcome for new students of the Department of Finance, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo, on March 01st, 2024. The Head of the department of finance, guest speaker Mr. Asanka Ranasinghe, department academic and non-academic staff members, and finance department students attended the event which was held at the faculty conference hall.

The FSA members warmly welcomed the new batch of students, introducing them to the association’s year-round events and activities. The session concluded with a networking opportunity, allowing new students to connect with FSA members, seniors, and peers. This gathering provided valuable insights into the finance department, its staff, and the array of opportunities awaiting the students. A total of 150 students enrolled with the Department of Finance this year.

 

Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Finance Students’ Association

The first ever Annual General Meeting of the Finance Students’ Association was held on 04th of May 2023 at the Faculty. The meeting was called to order by the past president Mr. Vishwa Rathnayaka, followed by the minutes of the last board meeting which was read by Ms. Hirani Amugoda, the secretary. The meeting was honored by the Head of the department Professor Prasath Rathnasingha, senior treasurer Professor Shantharuby Buvanendra, all the lecturers of the department, board members of the association, and all the students of the Department of Finance.

After presenting the annual report along with the audited financial statements, a new board was appointed to the Finance Students’ Association headed by Mr. Manusha Kandanaarchchi, the new president. Head of the department awarded service letters to all the past board members while appreciating their service. The new president, Head of the department, senior treasurer and the coordinator of Magnate 2023 addressed the gathering.

AGM was concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by the new secretary, Ms. Nisansa Galappaththi and the audience left the hall with great expectations on the future activities of the Department of Finance.

Students’ Welcome to the Department of Finance 2023

The Finance Students’ Association (FSA) hosted the annual welcome for new students of the Department of Finance, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo, on 21st of March 2023. The Dean of the Faculty of Management and Finance, the Head of the Department of Finance, Department academic and non-academic staff members, faculty members, and current finance department students attended the event which was held at Professor W. M. Jayarathne conference hall.

The FSA members warmly welcomed the new batch of students to the department and introduced them the events and activities that the association organizes throughout the year. The event concluded with a networking session, where the new students had the opportunity to meet and interact with the FSA members, seniors and their colleagues. This session provided an excellent opportunity for the new students to explore more about the finance department, the staff members, and the various opportunities available to them. A total of 150 students were enrolled with the Department of Finance this year.

Finance Students’ Association

The Finance Students’ Association (FSA) of the Department of Finance, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo was founded in 2022 and it is the official association of the undergraduates of the Department of Finance. The FSA organizes activities in order to create openings for undergraduates in the department, faculty and sister faculties across the country to hone their skills, shape them into hardworking and passionate finance professionals. The FSA motto is ‘Together we Grow, Lead, and Inspire’.

The FSA supports the objective of the Department and encourages the students to be involved in developing their interpersonal skills and interactions while improving their academic, professional and social capabilities. The first ever office bearers of the FSA were nominated from fourth-year and third-year undergraduates of the department.

Student’s Achievements

  • Mohamed Inaz Imthiyaz of the Finance Department has ranked first in the world, winning the World Prize for ACCA’s Advanced Taxation examination held in March 2019. Along with the world prize, Mohamed Inaz Imthiyaz has won six world ranking Sri Lankan Prizes on the following ACCA papers: Performance Management, Taxation, Financial Reporting, Financial Management, Advanced Financial Management, and Advanced Taxation.
  • Ten students of the Department of Finance participated for the 1st Sri Lanka Forum of Junior Business Economics (SLFJBE) Economic Summit 2019 organized by the Department of Business Economics, University of Sri Jayewardenepura in collaboration with SLFJBE, around the theme of “Strengthening the external sector of Sri Lanka to achieve a 7% growth”. Students took part in many competitions and secured the first runner-up in a critical writing competition, the second runner-up in quiz competition, and second runner-up in Economic debate competition.

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Magnate 2023

2nd Finance Undergraduate Research Symposium (FURS) 2023

NEW EVENT- Guest Sessions on Valuation

Finance Students’ Association – Annual Report 2022/23

Finance Students’ Association presented their first ever annual report for the year 2022/23 at the annual general meeting held on 4th of May 2023 at the Faculty. The annual report was launched by the head of the department, Professor Prasath Rathnasingha and the FSA President Mr. Vishwa Rathnayake presented it to the members of the association. Annual report included write-ups about the Department of Finance and the Finance Students’ Association, messages of important parties including Vice Chancellor of the University, audited financial reports of the association, updates on the events organized by the association, meeting minutes and contact details.

Third year (Semester VI) Department of Finance Undergraduates.

Organized By: cal.lk

A MoU signed between the Department of Finance, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo, and the CFA Society Sri Lanka.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Department of Finance, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo, and the CFA Society Sri Lanka on the 18th of March 2022, at College House of the University of Colombo with the objective of establishing a long-term collaborative relationship to promote ethics and industry best practices upheld by the CFA Institute (US), and to provide career mentorship programme and also to facilitate resource personnel for guest lectures and other knowledge sharing initiatives to improve learning and the marketability of graduates.

Present at the occasion were Professor. Chandrika N. Wijeyarathne, Vice Chancellor-University of Colombo, Professor. M P P Dharmadasa, Dean-Faculty of Management and Finance, Professor. D L P M Rathnasingha, Head-Department of Finance, Ms. K G K Fernando, Senior Lecturer, and academic staff members of the Department of Finance. Representing the CFA Society Sri Lanka, Mr. Dinesh Warusawitharana, the President, Mr. Aruna Alwis, CEO, Mr. Aruna Perera, Vice President, Mr. Nuwan Jayawardana, Chair-University Outreach Committee, graced the event.

CA SriLanka Exemptions

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka has decided to offer exemptions to the students who have completed the BBA (Finance) degree of the Department of Finance, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo. Exemptions are provided for four (04) subjects in the Professional Skills Level and Business Level I and II.

ACCA Accreditation

The BBA (Finance) degree program offered by the Department of Finance, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo is recognized as an ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) accredited program in the year 2022. BBA (Finance) graduates from 01/01/2022 to 31/12/2026 are eligible to apply for ACCA exemptions.

Students’ Welcome to the Department of Finance 2022

The new batch of the Department of Finance was warmly welcomed via a ‘virtual ceremony’ co-organized by the fourth-year undergraduates of the department. The event was held on 28 th February 2022 on the Zoom platform with the participation of academic staff members and the fourth-year and third-year undergraduates. A total of 145 students were enrolled with the Department of Finance this year.

 

CFA Institute – University Affiliation

Bachelor of Business Admiration (BBA) Honours in Finance degree has been accepted into the CFA Institute University Affiliation Program. This status is granted to institutions that embed a significant portion of the CFA Program Candidate Body of Knowledge (CBOK) into the curriculum.

Under this program, students of the B.B.A honors in Finance degree are awarded three CFA Program Awareness Scholarships annually (to be used in December and June of the following year).

For more information, please visit the following links,

https://www.cfainstitute.org/community/university/Pages/recognition_program_for_universities.aspx

https://www.cfainstitute.org/en/about/universities/university-affiliation#q=university%20of%20colombo

 

Students’ Welcome to the Department of Finance

The new batch of the Department of Finance was warmly welcomed via a ‘virtual ceremony’ co-organized by the fourth-year undergraduates of the department. The event was held on 13th January 2021 on the Zoom platform with the participation of academic staff members and the fourth-year and third-year undergraduates. A total of 101 students were enrolled with the Department of Finance this year.

PGDBF Inauguration

The inauguration ceremony of Postgraduate Diploma in Banking and Finance (PGDBF) batch seven was successfully conducted on the Zoom platform on 24th January 2021. Mr. Niranjan de Silva, Former CEO, Metropolitan Computers, Business Consultant, Trainer & Coach was the Keynote Speaker and addressed the prospective students with his inspirational words.

Inquiries

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Address

Department of Finance
Faculty of Management & Finance
University of  Colombo
Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.

Phone

+94-11 250 1294

Email

Dr. DLPM. Rathnasingha,
[Head of the Department]
011 250 1294
071 830 3761
head@dfn.cmb.ac.lk
Ms. KGK Fernando
[PGDBF Coordinator]
077 196 0805
pgdbf@dfn.cmb.ac.lk