Book Launch: IPS and Oxfam Joint Publication ‘Female Entrepreneurship and the Role of Business Development Services in Promoting Small and Medium Women Entrepreneurs in Sri Lanka’
The publication was based on a study done by IPS in five districts of the country (Kurunegala, Anuradhapura, Batticaloa, Moneragala and Matale).
Ms. Dieneke van der Wijk, Deputy Regional Director Programmes Asia for Oxfam GB was the Chief Guest and Dr. Saman Kelegama, the Executive Director of the Institute of Policy Studies, delivered the keynote address. Mr. Paul Joicey – Associate Country Director, Oxfam GB Sri Lanka and Mr. N. M Shahied, Chairman and Director General of the National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA) were also amongst the distinguished invitees.
Several key stakeholders comprising of government officials, Business Development Service providers and others took part in the event. Sunimalee Madurawala, Research Officer, IPS made a presentation on key highlights of the study. This study aimed to provide policy level recommendations to increase women entrepreneurs’ access to business development services. It also identifies national-level strategic priorities for stakeholders to work with the aim of promoting economic leadership and enterprise culture among women.
The IPS Executive Director presented the first copies of the publication to the Chief Guest, Associate Country Director of Oxfam, and the Chairman of NEDA.
