The Sri Lanka Institute of Directors (SLID) has, over the years, emerged as the authoritative focal point on boardroom governance and is the premier forum catering to the needs of directors, and equivalents, in Sri Lanka whether they be in the private sector or public sector.

The rapid growth of economic activity across the world, and recent financial shenanigans, both locally and abroad, have brought into sharp focus the need for good governance in the private and public sectors. The institutionalisation of good governance in all aspects of society is seen as a fundamental requirement for sustained growth in our country.

SLID president Mahen Dayananda says: "SLID as the premier forum in the pursuit of good governance is pleased to launch a program of training on ‘Corporate Stewardship and Boardroom Governance’ as an initial step in our journey towards achieving much higher standards of excellence in the future.

"These are indeed exciting times for the institute and we are confident that our membership and all those in the corporate sector will benefit tremendously through participation in this program."

As part of the capacity-building initiative, this program will be targeting existing and future directors of the private and public sector including the blue chips, multi-nationals, public enterprises and various medium and the small enterprises.

The program will comprise six modules and will be conducted over 11 months.

Each module, based on an interactive format, will take around 150 minutes and is crafted in a unique manner that will provide maximum value to those participating.

Further, the individual modules will feature between five to eight resource personnel drawn from a pool of very senior, and respected, professionals, the "Faculty";- who will not only add value through their knowledge and experience but will also act as inspirational role models to participants.

SLID was founded in April 2000 for the purpose of serving the professional needs of the corporate director. The membership of SLID has, hitherto, been restricted to board members of corporates, Partners of professional practices and senior managers and sole proprietors.

As of date, SLID has 1,000 members of whom around 650 are active.

SLID’s principal aim is to contribute to the professional advancement of its members by enhancing the governance capacity of individual directors and corporates and fostering leadership characteristics that are beneficial to companies, stakeholders, the community and the nation.

In keeping with this aim, SLID has been at the forefront conducting many events including seminars, breakfast meetings and competency development courses, all of which have been well attended and appreciated.

In pursuing its mission, its vision and its objectives, SLID is currrently operating under the aegis of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce. It aims to reposition itself through a new operating model, a new office, a dedicated administration structure and a rebranding initiative; the details of which will be revealed soon.