BCI Hosts International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Chair to Explore Close Collaboration on Training & Education of the Youth

María Fernanda Garza, Chair of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), visited the Benedict XVI Catholic International Institute of Higher Education (BCI) in Sri Lanka during her inaugural visit to the country recently.

The purpose of her visit was to engage in a meaningful dialogue on possible collaborative initiatives between BCI and the ICC, with a shared vision of enhancing educational and training opportunities for the youth of the nation

Present at the meeting with Ms. Fernanda were Anthony M. Shanil Fernando (Chairman, ICC Sri Lanka), Jonny Fernando (ViceChairman, ICC Sri Lanka), Very Rev. Fr. Quintus Fernando (Rector/Vice Chancellor, BCI), Jamie Warnakulasuriya (Career Guidance Coordinator, BCI) and Sasini Fernando (Programme Lead cum Lecturer - School of Business, BCI).

Both parties expressed interest in collaborating on impactful education and vocational training programmes to empower Sri Lankan youth, especially those unable to access higher education. Discussions centered on creating tailored courses based on economic needs and emerging careers that can equip youth with much-needed skills to improve livelihoods. The potential partnership between ICC and BCI represents a constructive initiative to address Sri Lanka’s education challenges.

The presentation led by Rev. Fr. Quintus, Rector/Vice Chancellor of BCI, focused on the need for private institutions such as BCI to address demands in higher education, particularly in districts including Gampaha, Puttalam and Kurunegala. It highlighted BCI’s alignment with the Catholic education mission and holistic K-Sam model. Statistics on failure rates in O/L and A/L exams and insufficient university admissions underscored the need for tailored courses for unsuccessful students.

Overall, BCI’s association with a renowned global entity such as ICC creates new opportunities in terms of resources, expertise, visibility and networks, education programmes and reach. The opportunity to collaborate with ICC’s global network and resources can expand BCI’s program offerings to develop new education and training. Additionally, access to ICC’s expertise and insights can create courses focused on highdemand careers.

Moreover, support from ICC in establishing an incubation centre for entrepreneurship and empowering women could play a vital role in boosting innovation and enterprise at BCI.

Receiving visibility and endorsement from ICC can raise BCI’s profile and attract more students. In addition, potential future partnerships with ICC’s major corporate membership can benefit BCI students through collaborations, internships, etc.