The Bank of Ceylon marked International Women’s Day 2026 by reaffirming its commitment to empowering women through inclusive and accessible financial solutions. Observed under the global theme “Give to Gain,” the initiative highlights the bank’s continued efforts to strengthen women’s participation in Sri Lanka’s formal financial system. With over 2,300 customer service touchpoints island-wide, BOC aligns its initiatives with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 on Gender Equality. The bank offers a wide range of savings products, credit facilities, advisory services, and digital banking solutions designed to help women manage finances, sustain income, and grow enterprises. One of its flagship savings products, BOC Kantha Ran Ginum, introduced in 1992, encourages women to build savings in their own name. The product has evolved to meet changing needs, with the latest version, BOC Kantha Ran Ginum SmartGen, offering enhanced digital accessibility. Savings certificates range from 25,000 to 500,000 rupees, with competitive interest rates and added benefits. BOC also supports women entrepreneurs through targeted credit schemes such as BOC Mithuru for women-led MSMEs and BOC Ran Liya for women business owners. Advisory support is provided through initiatives like the BOC SME Circle, Export Circle, and Business Revival Division, helping entrepreneurs expand, access global markets, and revive businesses. Digital services, including the BOC Flex Mobile App, Smart Online Banking, Smart Passbook, and e-commerce-enabled cards, further enhance accessibility. Backed by its extensive branch network, BOC ensures women across urban and rural areas can access formal banking solutions. Surekha Kulasekara, AGM – Sustainable Banking Division, stated that these initiatives reflect BOC’s ongoing commitment to strengthening women’s financial independence and supporting their role in national economic development.
