National Development Bank PLC, a leading financial institution committed to promoting gender equality and diversity, proudly announces its achievement of the Economic Dividends for Gender Equality (EDGE) certification for the third certification cycle. This prestigious recognition underscores NDB’s ongoing dedication to creating an inclusive workplace and its commitment to fostering gender equality across all levels of its operations.

The EDGE certification, the world’s leading assessment methodology and business certification standard for gender equality, is awarded to organisations that demonstrate a strong commitment to gender parity in the workplace. By achieving this certification once again, NDB Bank solidifies its position as a trailblazer in the financial sector for gender equality and diversity practices.

“NDB’s receipt of the EDGE certification for the third consecutive time is a testament to our unwavering commitment to gender equality and inclusivity,” stated Kelum Edirisinghe, the CEO of NDB. “This achievement reflects the collective effort of our entire team to integrate gender equality into our core values and business practices. It is not just recognition but a reminder of the progress we have made and the continuous journey we are on towards achieving workplace equality.”

Over the years, NDB has implemented numerous initiatives and policies designed to ensure gender balance, equal pay for equivalent work, and career advancement opportunities for women within the organization. These efforts include leadership training programmes, flexible work arrangements, and health and well-being support, all aimed at creating an empowering environment for female employees. Additionally, the Bank’s latest initiative, “Fearlessly Female," is specifically designed to provide support to NDB's budding female talent within the Bank

In collaboration with the EDGE strategy and IFC, NDB has systematically evaluated and enhanced its policies and practices related to recruitment, promotions, leadership development training, and mentorship programmes, ensuring they meet the global standards for gender equality.

“Equality is a fundamental value at NDB, and this certification is a recognition of our culture of inclusivity and diversity,” added Lasantha Dasanayaka, the Head of Human Resources at NDB. “Moving forward, we remain committed to furthering our initiatives, setting new benchmarks for gender equality in the banking sector, and contributing to the economic empowerment of women in Sri Lanka and beyond.”

Additionally NDB Bank was also honoured as one of the Most Outstanding Women Friendly Workplaces in Sri Lanka for the year at the Third Edition of the Women Friendly Workplace Awards 2023 (WFWA). The WFWA, which is a jointly pioneered venture by AICPA & CIMA and SATYN Magazine, seeks to recognize organisations that empower and acknowledge the contributions of women in the Sri Lankan workplace.

NDB’s achievement of the EDGE certification for the third consecutive time not only highlights its leadership in gender equality but also serves as an inspiration for other organisations to prioritise and advance gender parity in their workplaces. NDB Bank continues to lead by example, demonstrating that commitment to gender equality is not only a moral imperative but a critical component of organisational success and sustainability.

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 "Best Workplaces in Asia 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.