MMBL-Pathfinder Group has entered into a strategic partnership with HCLTech, a leading global technology company, to introduce innovative IT training programmes in Sri Lanka. This collaboration is set to be a game-changer, with the newly established Pathfinder EdTech Institute at its core, aiming to create a skilled workforce ready for the digital age.

At the launch ceremony held at the Taj Samudra Hotel in Colombo on Friday, 19 January, K. Balasundaram, CEO of MMBL-Pathfinder Group, and Srimathi Shivashankar, Corporate Vice President and Global Head of EdTech at HCLTech, signed the agreement to establish the Pathfinder-HCLTech Institute. Devika Lal, First Secretary of the Indian High Commission to Sri Lanka, was the Chief Guest, while Waruna Sri Dhanapala, Acting Secretary to the Ministry of Digital Economy, served as the Guest of Honour.

A special discussion on IT development opportunities in Sri Lanka was also held during the event. Prominent participants included Oshada Senanayake (Brandix), Nishan Sembacuttiaratchy (ESOFT), Hasitha Karunarathne (KPMG), and Bimal Gunapala (SLASSCOM).

Central to this partnership is the HCLTech Career Shaper platform, designed to seamlessly connect academic learning with industry requirements. By incorporating HCLTech’s acclaimed training methods, expertly curated curriculum, and state-of-the-art tech tools, this initiative promises to equip individuals with practical, job-ready skills.

The programme will debut with two training centres in Colombo and Jaffna, with plans to expand across the country. Initial courses will cover essential topics such as Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity, with more subjects to follow. The blended learning approach combines tech-driven coursework, hands-on projects, and internship opportunities, offering participants a comprehensive and immersive educational experience.

“Our collaboration with MMBL-Pathfinder Group reinforces HCLTech’s commitment to empowering communities through transformative education. By bringing Career Shaper™ to Sri Lanka, we aim to nurture a generation of IT professionals ready to lead in the global digital economy,” said Srimathi Shivashankar, Corporate Vice President and Global Head of EdTech at HCLTech.

This initiative aligns with HCLTech’s vision of enabling accessible, high-quality tech education worldwide. Operating in over 59 countries, the company is a global leader in workforce transformation, leveraging emerging technologies to create impactful career pathways.

The launch of the Pathfinder EdTech Institute underscores Sri Lanka’s potential as a future hub for IT innovation. This partnership is poised to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in the country, contributing to its aspirations of becoming a regional leader in digital excellence.