Shaping Futures, Empowering Women ESOFT METRO CAMPUS Celebrates International Women’s Day

As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, ESOFT Metro Campus, Sri Lanka’s leading private sector higher education network, proudly acknowledges its commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment. While ESOFT has blossomed into a cornerstone of academic excellence since 2000, its impact transcends the walls of its 40 branches nationwide.

Leading with Diversity and Inclusion

The campus serves over 30,000 students annually, and a key pillar of its mission is fostering gender equality and empowering women. This resolve is evident in the fact that 17 out of 42 of ESOFT’S strategic business units (representing over 40% of SBUS) are led by women. Further, women comprise 377 out of 683 employees, highlighting a dedication to inclusivity across all levels of the organisation. These statistics also demonstrate the organisation’s unwavering belief in the potential and leadership capabilities of women.

Dr. Dayan Rajapakse, Founder, Chairman, and Managing Director of ESOFT Metro Campus, acknowledges a concerning trend: professionally qualified women leaving the workforce due to family commitments.

Dr. Rajapakse emphasises that this phenomenon represents a significant loss to Sri Lanka’s economic potential. ESOFT seeks to address this issue by not only providing equal opportunities for women but also offering the necessary support to help them thrive in the workforce.

Jeewanthi Marasinghe, an Inspiration to Women and a Product of ESOFT

Ms. Marasinghe’s story is a shining example of the success fostered by ESOFT’S dedication to empowering women. Her journey with ESOFT began right after her Advanced Level exams, seamlessly transitioning from student to professional within the very institution that shaped her career.

Studying at the ESOFT, she not only completed her Bachelor of Information Technology degree awarded by the University of Colombo but also went on to work at their Kurunegala Branch. While working she pursued a Master of Business Administration from the London Metropolitan University (UK), also at ESOFT.

Her remarkable career progression, culminating in eight promotions within just nine years is a reflection of ESOFT’S recognition of her dedication. Today, Jeewanthi holds the esteemed position of Assistant General Manager cum Lecturer - IT, and her achievements have been further recognised through the Women Icon Award (Wealthy Intelligence category), organised in association with Times Women. This prestigious international recognition celebrates the achievements of exceptional women across the globe.

“ESOFT goes beyond simply offering equal opportunities. We actively provide a supportive environment that enables women to thrive and contribute their expertise throughout their careers. Our organisational culture ensures that women don't face an “either/or" choice between professional aspirations and responsibilities to their family.”

- Dr. Dayan Rajapakse, Chairman, and Managing

Director of ESOFT

“The trust and confidence I've received have empowered me to flourish in my career and contribute meaningfully to the IT field by shaping young talent this industry needs. A trust-based environment is crucial for women to excel in their careers, to perform confidently, and make lasting contributions in their chosen fields.”

-Ms. Jeewanthi Marasinghe, Assistant General Manager and

Lecturer - IT

“ESOFT’S supportive workplace environment has been instrumental in my professional growth,” says Jeewanthi

ESOFT’S commitment to gender equality extends beyond its workforce and permeates its diverse educational programs. The organisation, accredited by the British Computer Society (BCS), holds the distinction of being the world’s largest provider of BCS Higher Education Qualifications (HEQ), with over 50 prizewinners demonstrating the institution’s dedication to academic excellence and student success. Furthermore, ESOFT’S strategic partnership with London Metropolitan University (UK) and affiliation with Kingston University (UK) empowers female students to acquire globally recognised qualifications without leaving Sri Lanka, making these qualifications more affordable and accessible. This unique opportunity enhances their marketability and career prospects in the global job market.

Jeewanthi Marasinghe’s acquisition of international qualifications from the Kurunegala Centre further exemplifies ESOFT’S commitment to ensuring that living away from Colombo doesn’t hinder the acquisition of qualifications or progression in one’s career.

This commitment ensures that the voices of women are not only heard but amplified, leading the way towards a more equitable and prosperous future.