In commemoration of the International Biodiversity Day, NDB Bank has once again demonstrated its commitment to environmental conservation, as CEO Kelum Edirisinghe and NDB staff volunteered for mangrove restoration activities. This on-going effort is part of the 'Life to Our Mangroves' project, a collaborative Public-Private-Community Partnership and Multi-Partner initiative between NDB Bank, Biodiversity Sri Lanka (BSL), the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC), Wayamba University (WUSL) and other private sector companies.
The project, initiated in 2022, has progressed successfully. The science-based approach has provided valuable insight to overcome challenges and obtain a better growth rate. Community involvement has also been a key element in this journey. By enhancing ecological functions, habitat quality, and species diversity, the project contributes to biodiversity and ecosystem services, aligning with NDB's commitment to sustainability.
During the restoration activities, volunteers, including the CEO and members of NDB's leadership team, planted 600 mangrove seeds and assisted in research activities on plant growth covering 03 hectares of the project site. The Volunteers were also educated on the importance of the project, the benefits of the project, the challenges faced and the lessons learned. The highlight of this awareness session was the success stories shared by officials from BSL, DWC, and WUSL, evidencing the strides made through this Blue Carbon Project in mitigating Climate Change.
NDB's CEO, Kelum Edirisinghe, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "NDB is proud to be at the forefront of this globally recognised initiative, where we are not just planting mangroves; we are restoring an entire ecosystem & the benefits that come with it. These ecological, economic and social benefits will not only be felt by the community but will cascade to the entire nation and will also create a sense of pride and purpose among our employees, as we work together towards a greener future."
Through initiatives like the 'Life to Our Mangroves' project, NDB Bank continues to lead by example in environmental stewardship, embodying its commitment to responsible business practices and sustainable value creation.
NDB Bank is the fourth-largest listed commercial bank in Sri Lanka. The Bank was named the Retail Bank of the Year (Sri Lanka) at Asian Banking & Finance Retail Banking Awards 2023 and the Best Corporate Bank 2023 by Asiamoney and also emerged as the Most Awarded Corporate in Sri Lanka in 2022 for the second consecutive year, as per the annual rankings of Sri Lankan publication LMD. The Bank was adjudged the Best Bank in Sri Lanka 2022 by Global Finance USA and Euromoney in their annual best bank awards programmes. Additionally, The Bank was named one of the "Top 50 Best Workplaces in Sri Lanka 2022" by Great Place To Work, USA. NDB is the parent company of the NDB Group, comprising capital market subsidiary companies, together forming a unique banking and capital market services group. The Bank is committed to empowering the nation and its people through meaningful financial and advisory services powered by digital banking solutions.
In a commitment to uplifting the lives of the less privileged, NDB Bank recently extended a helping hand to the Mother Charitable Foundation (MCF). This charitable initiative aligns with NDB's unwavering dedication to making a positive impact on communities and creating opportunities for a brighter future.
A generous donation of essential groceries, stationery items, and thoughtful gifts was presented to 40 differently-abled children and elders at the Mother Charitable Foundation. NDB Bank recognizes the importance of supporting initiatives that foster inclusivity, empowerment, and hope.
The donated stationery items hold a special significance, as they will be utilized by the differently-abled individuals to craft decorative items. These creations will not only showcase their unique talents but will also serve as a means to raise funds for their own support. NDB's contribution includes educational toys carefully selected to aid in skill development, ensuring a holistic approach to the well-being of the beneficiaries.
The mission of Mother Charitable Foundation resonates deeply with NDB Bank's ethos. The foundation strives to bring hope into the lives of those who may feel marginalized or without prospects. Specifically focusing on the differently-abled, MCF emphasizes education and skill development to empower individuals towards independence, allowing them to lead dignified lives.
What sets Mother Charitable Foundation apart is its commitment to an inclusive approach that transcends societal boundaries. Operating as a non-profit, non-governmental initiative, the foundation envisions creating an accessible environment for the disadvantaged. Importantly, MCF ensures that its services reach rural areas across the country, targeting those who are most in need but may be overlooked by other assistance programs.
The spectrum of beneficiaries encompassed by Mother Charitable Foundation includes children and adults with disabilities, the elderly, individuals living with HIV, cancer and thalassemia patients, and those who have been socially ostracized. NDB Bank's donation underscores a shared commitment to make a meaningful difference in the lives of these individuals, contributing to their well-being and fostering a sense of belonging.
NDB Bank values the role of corporate social responsibility in building a compassionate and supportive society. This partnership with Mother Charitable Foundation is a step towards creating sustained positive change. As NDB continues to explore avenues for community engagement, it remains steadfast in its commitment to uplifting lives, promoting inclusivity, and fostering hope in the hearts of those who need it the most.
NDB Bank is the fourth-largest listed commercial bank in Sri Lanka. The Bank was recently named the Retail Bank of the Year (Sri Lanka) at Asian Banking & Finance Retail Banking Awards 2023 and the Best Corporate Bank 2023 by Asiamoney and also emerged as the Most Awarded Corporate in Sri Lanka in 2022 for the second consecutive year, as per the annual rankings of Sri Lankan publication LMD. The Bank was adjudged the Best Bank in Sri Lanka 2022 by Global Finance USA and Euromoney in their annual best bank awards programmes. Additionally, The Bank was named one of the "Top 50 Best Workplaces in Sri Lanka 2022" by Great Place To Work, USA. NDB is the parent company of the NDB Group, comprising capital market subsidiary companies, together forming a unique banking and capital market services group. The Bank is committed to empowering the nation and its people through meaningful financial and advisory services powered by digital banking solutions.
The Bank installed a ‘Reverse Osmosis Water Treatment Plant’ (RO Plant) in Veheragalagama, a very remote village in Wilgamuwa, in the Matale district.
The plant was ceremoniously opened by the CEO of NDB Bank Mr.Dimantha Seneviratne in the presence of the members of the NDB Leadership Team, Corporate Sustainability (CS) Team, Village Officials and the Villagers of Veheragalagama. The RO Plant has the capability of processing 10,000 litres of water a day and will directly benefit over 300 households (over 1,000 people) in this village.
A tube well was installed as the water source and a ‘Village Committee’ set up to manage the day-to-day operations of the RO Plant including the daily distribution of water.
The villagers are predominantly farmers who face many difficulties and have no means to purchase an RO Plant. Speaking at the event, the Principal of the village school Mr.C J Wijesooriya thanked the bank, stating that this initiative would greatly benefit the villagers–minimizing the risk of water borne diseases especially the dreaded kidney disease. He stated that there are around 100 villagers who suffer from kidney disease, and they have to travel over 40 km to get treatment from the hospital in Mahiyangana. The closest RO Plant is located over 4 kms from the village and the villagers have to face many difficulties to collect water every day.
The ongoing economic crisis in our nation, the price increase of essentials and the fuel crisis has affected everyone – impacting societies vulnerable with greater intensity.
Therefore, the bank took steps to support the cleaning staff, tea staff and security staff working at NDB Head Office and DHPL who are the most vulnerable at this time.
The bank provided monetary assistance to these employees, enabling them to meet their essential needs during this period.