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Tokyo Cement Group reports steady financial performance in FY24/25 Q2

Quarterly Financial Review

Tokyo Cement Group (Tokyo Cement) reported a turnover of Rs.13,833 million compared to Rs.13,311 million over the same period of the previous year, and a Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs.1,082 million compared to Rs. 642 million over the same period of the previous year, for the 2nd quarter ended 30th September 2024.

The moderate 4% increase in turnover does not reflect the 19% sales volume growth, due to the reduction in prices in the corresponding periods. A one-rupee reduction of the CESS levied on each kilogram of imported clinker as well as bulk and bagged cement took effect from 6th September 2024. However, the industry performance remained relatively steady compared to that of the previous year, causing the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) of a 50Kg bag of cement to remain unchanged throughout the quarter under review.

The Economic Environment

The 2024 calendar year began with a positive economic outlook, as the country’s year-on-year GDP growth for Q1 2024 reached 5.3%. Economic indicators reported for Q2 also suggested strong growth. Factors such as relaxed monetary policy, improved supply conditions, a gradual recovery in external demand, a revival in tourism, and reduced uncertainties around debt restructuring, contributed to this sustained positivity.

Despite market interest rates decreasing due to the relaxed monetary policy, lending interest rates, except for prime lending rates, were declining at a slower pace than anticipated. However, the Central Bank’s decision to maintain the Standing Deposit Facility Rate (SDFR) and the Standing Lending Facility Rate (SLFR) at 8.25% and 9.25%, respectively, since their initial announcement in July, encouraged investors to pursue fixed-term loans for construction projects.

The construction industry was able to maintain prices without major fluctuations, further signaling stability. In addition, the Japanese government made an official announcement on releasing funds to resume bilateral projects undertaken in Sri Lanka which were previously put on hold. These factors helped boost investor confidence, stimulating a steady industry momentum, as indicated by the increased cement consumption compared to the same period last year.

Following the Gazette notification at the start of the quarter announcing the Presidential Election on September 21, 2024, several significant tariff reductions for fuel, energy, and utility services were implemented. However, this announcement dampened investment plans to some extent, as concerns about potential political uncertainty raised doubts on economic stability and its impact on the IMF program, which in turn affected market movements.

This was reflected in the Sri Lanka Purchasing Managers’ Index for the Construction Industry (PMI – Construction) during the quarter under review. In July, the PMI – Construction indicated a steady increase in construction activity, driven by multilateral agency-funded projects and an increase in new orders. By September, construction activities declined further due to site closures in view of election-related disruptions. However, the expectations for future activities are positive, with the availability of new projects.

Outlook

The economic outlook is perceived with a mix of optimism and caution by investors since the conclusion of the Presidential Election. The Government expressed their commitment to continuing the IMF program, along with efforts to negotiate further relief for middle and low-income groups. This should contribute to maintaining economic stability and sustaining the gradual positive outlook for domestic demand.

In the upcoming quarter, monsoon conditions could dampen some demand, whilst the parliamentary elections are expected to be slightly disruptive in the second week of November. Once the Government is formed and the fiscal and monetary agendas are outlined, consumers would have a greater understanding of how policies might influence their consumption. However, there are early positive indicators of incoming demand in the form of increased requests for credit and other borrowing mechanisms by the construction industry. The Company remains optimistic of the industry momentum and expects this trend to continue, driven by increased individual purchasing power and a stable economic environment, leading to sustained demand growth.

Whilst maintaining its conservative outlook for the short to medium term, Tokyo Cement remains optimistic of stabilisation of the country’s economic fundamentals as the year progresses. The Group will maintain the stringent cost control measures already in place to protect the interests of its stakeholders. The Tokyo Cement Group remains agile to the changes in the business environment and stands ready to be an active participant in the country’s efforts to reignite the economy.

Transforming Futures: Phase 2 of A.Y.S. Gnanam VHE Centre in Trincomalee Unveiled

The Tokyo Cement Group recently inaugurated the second phase of the A.Y.S. Gnanam Village Heartbeat Empowerment (VHE) Centre in Trincomalee. Initially established in 2023 with the Foundation of Goodness (FOG), this facility extension was inaugurated by Mr. Mano Sekaram and Mrs. Averil Ludowyke, Directors of the Tokyo Cement Group, alongside Mr. Kushil Gunasekera, Founder/Chief Trustee of the FOG. Chairman of the Tokyo Cement Company, Dr. Harsha Cabral PC, and Managing Director, Mr. S.R. Gnanam, were among the other distinguished guests at the ceremony.

Mr. Mano Sekaram, Mrs. Averil Ludowyke, and Mr. S.R. Gnanam of the Tokyo Cement Group with Mr. Kushil Gunasekera of the Foundation of Goodness inaugurated the Phase 2 of A.Y.S. Gnanam VHE Centre in Trincomalee

Tokyo Cement Group initiated the expansion plan to increase the center’s capacity whilst offering in-demand vocational training programs, addressing the growing demand from the community. The VHE Centre with added classrooms and multi-use spaces, including a versatile auditorium, widens the scope for education and skills development through simultaneous sessions in Sinhala and Tamil, catering to more students.

As a result, more primary educational subjects are added to its repertoire, including arts, music, and dance. The ICT lab staffed by a full-time IT instructor, has doubled its student intake by offering tailored daytime courses for youth and after-school classes for schoolchildren. The Centre now offers recognized training courses in popular vocational streams such as electronics maintenance, mobile device repair, and CCTV installation and maintenance, helping youth acquire professional skills for better job opportunities. Furthermore, fully-equipped classrooms for cookery and bakery, and beauty culture courses are installed, whilst the capacity for sewing and dressmaking course is doubled with more machines. With the second phase unveiled, the curriculums of all vocational training modules have been upgraded to meet latest professional standards.

The A.Y.S. Gnanam Village Heartbeat Centre Trincomalee offers free educational support on core curricular subjects for Grades 1-5 students from low-income families

Additionally, the A.Y.S. Gnanam Memorial Futsal Centre, a unique feature at the Trincomalee VHE facility, has been upgraded to include coaching for volleyball and netball, allowing local youth to engage in their favorite sports. With nearly 200 youth and adults already enrolled in the new programs, the improved facilities, and extended operating hours have enhanced the reach and long-term value of the Centre.

Vocational training courses are conducted free of cost at the A.Y.S. Gnanam Village Heartbeat Centre Trincomalee to empower youth and women to pursue self-employment opportunities

Established in memory of Tokyo Cement Group’s Founder Chairman, Deshamanya A.Y.S. Gnanam, the Trincomalee VHE Centre offers programs in Tamil and Sinhala, free of cost, welcoming students, women, and youth from nearby areas. Since its inception, the VHE Centre has reached over 1,665 beneficiaries and currently enrolls more than 685 individuals from 18 schools and 30 remote villages. As the 16th VHE project of the FOG, it is the second Centre established in partnership with the Tokyo Cement Group. The two A.Y.S. Gnanam VHE Centers in Trincomalee and Dambulla provide essential educational support in core curricular subjects for schoolchildren and offers free vocational training courses and sports training for youth and women.

This project marks a significant milestone in Tokyo Cement’s efforts to integrate social welfare into its core values. Exemplified by far-reaching initiatives such as this, Tokyo Cement Group reinstates its commitment to be the leading partner in nation-building.

Tokyo Cement partners the Foundation of Goodness for 9th year running

Tokyo Cement Group extended the partnership with the Foundation of Goodness (FoG) for 2024 towards the continuation of the Cricket Coaching Camps. This is the 9th successful year of this far-reaching partnership, that provides aspiring young cricketers from rural areas with access to quality training facilities to improve their cricketing talents.

The Tokyo Cement-Foundation of Goodness Cricket Coaching Academy began back in 2014 by setting up training facilities at Hikkaduwa Sri Sumangala MCC Lords and Seenigama Sri Wimalabuddhi Surrey Oval, two grounds fully equipped with indoor and outdoor nets for cricket practices, under the patronage of the Tokyo Cement Group.

Mr. S. R. Gnanam – Managing Director, Tokyo Cement Company (Lanka) PLC. presenting the 2024 Cricket Coaching Academy sponsorship to Mr. Kushil Gunasekera – Founder/Chief Trustee, Foundation of Goodness.</>

Mr. Anura De Silva, Director Sports of the Foundation of Goodness heads the Cricket Academy, which conducts monthly training sessions with professional coaching staff of the FoG, under the leadership of celebrated cricket coaches, Mr. Hemantha Devapriya and Mr. Susantha Karunarathna. Promising young school cricketers are groomed by renowned coaches as well as local and international former cricket legends who contribute their expertise from time to time. Star performers identified through the project are enrolled in an elite players’ pool, where they receive specialized training.

The success of the Southern cricket camps encouraged Tokyo Cement to extend the programme to the North in 2017, in search of future cricketing sensations. The coaching camps held in the North were received with much enthusiasm, attracting many schoolgirl and schoolboy cricketers from all age groups from areas such as Jaffna, Killinochchi, Oddusudan, Mankulam, Mullaitivu, Vavuniya and Mannar. Its long-term aim is to take 50 Northern youth under its wings, to be trained to become star class Sri Lankan cricketers.

The Cricket Coaching Academy has so far produced hundreds of outstanding schoolgirl and schoolboy cricketers who now play at Divisional and National level. This includes multiple superstars from the Sri Lanka Women’s National Team, such as Kaveesha Dilhari, Sachini Nisansala, Imesha Dulani, Kawya Kavindi, Umasha Thimeeshani, Nilakshana Sandamini, Sathya Sandeepani, Sachini Gimahani, and many others, who have brought unprecedented glory to the country, including winning the Women’s T20 Asia Cup 2024. In addition, the FOG Cricket Academy is represented in the Sri Lanka Men’s National Team by top-notch players such as Navod Paranavithana, Malsha Tharupathi, Haren Weerasinghe, S. Mathushan and many more. Star-class international players such as Vijayakanth Viyaskanth and the Captain of the Sri Lanka National Hearing-impaired Cricket Team Gimadu Malcolm are also among the distinguished talent unearthed through the Tokyo Cement-Foundation of Goodness Cricket Coaching Academy. With the renewed partnership, it is poised to create more opportunities for talented young cricketers from remote areas to achieve their dreams of a successful sports career and bring fame to our motherland.

Two Independent Non-Executive Directors appointed to the Tokyo Cement Board

Tokyo Cement Company (Lanka) PLC announces the appointment of Mr. Mano Sekaram and Mrs. Averil Anne Ludowyke as Independent Non-Executive Directors to its Board.

Mr. Mano Sekaram is a renowned tech entrepreneur and investor in the Sri Lankan IT industry with over 30 years of experience in the corporate arena. He is the Founder and Chairman of 99x Technology Sri Lanka and Asia, and Board Member of 99x Investment AS Norway, an award-winning digital product engineering company serving European markets. He was featured on the prestigious LMD100 Club for both 2019 and 2020, which highlights the A-list of Sri Lankan businesspeople driving the Nation’s growth. He was awarded the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ by the British Computer Society (BCS) at the National Best Quality Software Awards (NBQSA) 2014, for his vast contributions to the ICT industry.

Mr. Mano Sekaram

In furthering IT education and aligning the university curricula to industry needs, Mr. Sekaram has contributed as a Board Member of both the University of Jaffna and the University of Colombo, School of Computing. He is a member of the University Grants Commission (UGC) Consultative Committee for Computer Science. In addition, Mr. Sekaram sits on the Board of the Sri Lanka Technological Campus (SLTC) and is also a past Chairman of the Sri Lanka Association of Software and Service Companies (SLASSCOM), the apex body of the Sri Lankan IT/BPM sector. In August 2023, Mr. Sekaram was appointed as the Honorary Consul General for Norway in Sri Lanka.

Mrs. Averil Anne Ludowyke, FCA (CA Sri Lanka), FCMA (UK), counts over 26 years of experience at Ernst & Young and has served as a Partner from 2011 to 2022. She was lead Audit Partner at M/S Ernst & Young, of several groups of companies, and she launched and led forensics and integrity services of the firm. Her clients included banks and finance companies, and companies engaged in retail, manufacturing, telecommunications, construction, real estate, shipping and logistics, leisure, plantations and development.

She also counts for over 13 years of senior level experience in finance and accounting in the manufacturing sector, and in a relief and development organization. She is also an Independent Non-Executive Director on the Boards of Seylan Bank PLC, Ceylinco Life Insurance Ltd., and Bogala Graphite PLC. Mrs. Averil Ludowyke has been a resource person for the Director Certification Program of the Sri Lanka Institute of Directors, and the Certificate Course on Forensic Auditing of CA Sri Lanka. She has also conducted several public seminars with the CIMA, the Ministry of Public Enterprise Development, National Chamber of Commerce, ACCA, AAT, CMA and has been a panellist/presenter at the ACAMS Regional Conference of the Indian Subcontinent, the Annual Conference of the Institute of Internal Auditors, and at programs conducted by the University of Kelaniya.

With these appointments, the Board of Tokyo Cement Company (Lanka) PLC comprises of Chairman Dr. Harsha Cabral PC, Managing Director Mr. S.R. Gnanam, Dr. Indrajit Coomaraswamy, Mr. A.D.B. Talwatte, Mr. Ravi Dias, Mr. Shuichi Nakamoto, Mr. W.C. Fernando, Mr. Praveen Gnanam, Mrs. A.A. Ludowyke and Mr. Mano Sekaram.

Tokyo Cement Group is the largest manufacturer of high-quality cement, concrete and cement-based innovative products in Sri Lanka. As a truly homegrown blue-chip company that is intrinsic to Sri Lanka’s progress, the Company has pledged to enrich the national economy through local value creation. Having earned its reputation as a trusted corporate at the heart of the transformation of the local construction industry, Tokyo Cement Group has reaffirmed its position as the leading partner in Nation-building.

CIOB Green Awards 2024: Tokyo Cement wins Gold & Silver for sustainable leadership in construction

Tokyo Cement Group recently had the honor of reaffirming its Sustainable Leadership status in the Construction Industry by winning two prestigious awards at the Annual Green and Sustainability Awards 2024.

The company’s revolutionary new product, TOKYO SUPERSET Multi-Purpose Mortar, received the Gold Award, whilst its innovative solution, Pervious Concrete from Tokyo Supermix (Pvt) Limited; the Group’s Ready-Mix Concrete (RMC) business unit, secured the Silver Award in Sustainable Products and Systems category at the awards ceremony organized by the Ceylon Institute of Builders (CIOB).

TOKYO SUPERSET Multi-Purpose Mortar won Gold in the Sustainable Products and Systems Category at CIOB Annual Green Awards 2024

The 12th World Construction Symposium and Green and Sustainability Awards Night hosted by CIOB and the University of Moratuwa, offered a unique platform to share knowledge and insights on promoting sustainable built environments. It was followed by the Annual Green Awards ceremony, which recognizes outstanding sustainability efforts in the Sri Lankan construction industry, with the aim of promoting sustainable practices, foster innovation and inspire others.

Pervious Concrete by TOKYO SUPERMIX won Silver in the Sustainable Products and Systems Category at CIOB Annual Green Awards 2024

These two ground-breaking and revolutionary products winning the topmost accreditation at the Annual Green Awards stands proof of Tokyo Cement’s continuous commitment to environmental sustainability. Over the years the Tokyo Cement Group, being Sri Lanka’s largest manufacturer of cement, concrete, and cement-based value-added products, has received multiple accolades in recognition of its standard-setting sustainability practices that have transformed the local construction industry.

The TOKYO SUPERSET Multi-Purpose Mortar that was decorated in Gold at the Annual Green Awards 2024 is a revolutionary cement mortar application, which was introduced as an environmental-friendly and highly efficient solution for brick/block laying, internal and external plastering, and floor rendering. It is a pre-blended, ready-to-use solution that only requires the addition of water to apply, as opposed to the troublesome traditional method of preparing cement mortar. In addition to significantly reducing wastage compared to traditional mortar preparation, the Carbon Footprint of TOKYO SUPERSET Multi-Purpose Mortar is reduced further due to its special formula that uses non-toxic organic additives, graded manufactured sand and blended hydraulic cement, which also has a lower carbon footprint compared to that of Ordinary Portland Cement. The reduction in labor costs and time is further enhanced by improved coverage, spreadability, workability, and thin coat application features of the TOKYO SUPERSET Multi-Purpose Mortar, which collectively enhances application efficiency.

Pervious Concrete by Tokyo Supermix won the Silver Award in recognition of its unique mix design that allows water to infiltrate through its surface onto the underlying soil. This product contributes significantly to enhance the environmental sustainability of built environments by supporting natural hydrology and groundwater recharge networks, thus reducing the strain on stormwater drainage systems. Furthermore, the composition of pervious concrete can be adjusted to achieve the right level of porosity and water permeability to suit different site conditions and help eliminate water accumulation on outdoor surfaces such as driveways, sidewalks, courtyards, parking lots and even green roofs of eco-friendly building designs. The rise in demand for well-designed urban residential communities is rising nationwide, necessitating thoughtful micro-level town planning and eco-friendly design practices. As such, Pervious Concrete offers a versatile solution for sustainable water management and environmental stewardship, enhancing both the functionality and value of these developments.

Furthermore, Tokyo Cement Group’s unwavering commitment to promote sustainable construction practices is firmly attested through its distinguished product brand TOKYO SUPER Cement that has gained prestigious accreditations of Green Mark® (Singapore) Certification from the CIOB, and the GREENSL® Labelling System Certification from the Green Building Council of Sri Lanka (GBCSL), making it the Greenest Cement in the market.

Tokyo Cement has earned the reputation as the most trusted supplier of high-quality cement, concrete and cement-based innovative products in Sri Lanka, that have uplifted the local Construction Industry to global standards. By successfully integrating social welfare and environmental conservation into its mission to enrich the country, its people and the environment, Tokyo Cement Group has reaffirmed its position as the leading partner in Nation-building.

Tokyo Cement Group off to an optimistic start in FY24/25 Q1

Quarterly Financial Review Tokyo Cement Group (Tokyo Cement) reported a turnover of Rs. 11,665 Mn (a 3% decline over the same period of the previous year) and a Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs. 707 Mn (a 18% decline over the same period of the previous year) for the 1st quarter ended 30th June 2024. …

Quarterly Financial Review

Tokyo Cement Group (Tokyo Cement) reported a turnover of Rs. 11,665 Mn (a 3% decline over the same period of the previous year) and a Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs. 707 Mn (a 18% decline over the same period of the previous year) for the 1st quarter ended 30th June 2024. The decline in turnover compared to the previous year despite recording an increase in sales volume is due to the reduction in prices in the corresponding quarters.

Passing on the benefit of cost reductions to consumers, the cement industry announced two downward price revisions which brought the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) of a 50Kg bag of cement to Rs.2,250/-.

The Economic Environment

The calendar year started off with a positive economic outlook with the country’s year-on-year GDP for the first quarter of 2024 reporting a 5.3% growth.

The Rupee appreciating against the US Dollar facilitated reductions in the cost of imported raw materials, which in turn allowed for the price of cement and other building materials to be revised accordingly. The downward trend in policy interest rates throughout this calendar year, with the Standing Deposit Facility Rate (SDFR) and Standing Lending Facility Rate (SLFR) at 8.5% and 9.5% respectively, has encouraged investors to pursue fixed-term loans for construction projects.

Noteworthy tariff reductions in fuel, energy and utility services were implemented during the quarter. All of these factors allowed for a boost in purchasing power and investor confidence to a greater extent, thus stimulating steady economic growth.

Heavy rains from mid-May continued through June in most parts of the country, disrupting daily life, that included school closures, transportation service breakdowns, power outages, and hindered construction activities. Despite the inclement weather conditions cement consumption grew when compared to the same period last year.

The Government’s settlement of Rs. 200 Bn from the outstanding payments owed to state sector contractors eased cashflow issues faced by the industry, allowing for consistent purchasing of raw materials. This was reflected in the Sri Lanka Purchasing Managers’ Index for Construction Industry, which recorded 54.5 in May and 59.5 in June 2024, indicating a consecutive increase in total construction activities.

Outlook

Building on successful negotiations with the bilateral creditors, the government anticipates achieving similar debt relief from commercial creditors to support its steady economic recovery efforts. Furthermore, the government has committed to resume infrastructure projects worth an additional Rs. 55 Bn, which will contribute to boost sectoral growth. The downward trending policy interest rates are expected to further facilitate the commencement of new or paused projects, both retail and commercial. Historically, there has been a trend of accelerating construction projects in the lead-up to elections. The Company expects this trend to continue, driven by increased individual purchasing power and a stable economic environment, leading to sustained demand growth.

Whilst maintaining its conservative outlook for the short to medium term, Tokyo Cement remains optimistic of stabilisation of the country’s economic fundamentals as the year progresses. The Group will maintain the stringent cost control measures already in place to protect the interests of its stakeholders. The Tokyo Cement Group remains agile to the changes in the business environment and stands ready to be an active participant in the country’s efforts to reignite the economy.

Tokyo Cement Salutes Top Performers at 2024 Annual Gala Dealer Convention

Tokyo Cement Group recently hosted their top-performing dealers to the prestigious Annual Dealer Convention 2024, held at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo. The star-studded awards night, befitting the outstanding performance of the channel sales partners, recognised over 140 top performers from across the island, who walked away with grand prizes.

City Hardware & Stores – Jaffna, Ancheneyer Cement & Hardware Dealer – Batticaloa, National Trading Stores – Kurunegala, Shanmugam Stores – Kilinochchi, Emerald Hardware – Uduppiddy and Hansika Transport – Katuneriya were crowned best among the best of 2024 at the annual awards ceremony organised by the cement giant.

Held under the auspices of the executive management of Tokyo Cement Company (Lanka) PLC, including the Managing Director – Mr. S.R. Gnanam, Group COO – Mr. M. Thayananthan, Consultant Director – Mr. Christopher Fernando, and Group General Manager – Marketing, Mr. Dashantha Udawatta, the event brought together the Tokyo Cement Dealers from across the island who were treated to a memorable celebration.

The Managing Director of Tokyo Cement Company (Lanka) PLC, Mr. S.R. Gnanam offered his highest commendations to the entire sales network for their unwavering cooperation that enabled Tokyo Cement to overcome what could be described as one of the most challenging years in the history of business. Speaking of the tough economic situation of the country, Mr. Gnanam reiterated how despite a turbulent marketing environment, Tokyo Cement was able to fulfil its national duty by contributing to uplift the lives of our fellow citizens, all thanks to the steady support extended by the Company’s dealers and distributers.

The Annual Dealer Convention is the primary event to recognise and reward Tokyo Cement Dealers spread across every part of the island. The event celebrates their achievements during the year, backed by Tokyo Cement Group’s trusted range of household cements, concrete and cement-based value-added products, synonymous with quality and reliability. Tokyo Cement together with its dealer network have established a prestigious set of brand names, including; NIPPON CEMENT, TOKYO SUPER, NIPPON CEMENT PRO and ATLAS CEMENT, and TOKYO SUPERMIX Ready Mixed Concrete, in addition to the innovative portfolio of cement-based value-added products, starting with TOKYO SUPERBOND, TOKYO SUPERSEAL and TOKYO SUPERCAST among others, that have transformed and augmented the local construction industry.

As a truly homegrown Sri Lankan corporate Tokyo Cement Group has enriched our nation for over four decades through local value creation, in which the Company’s dealer network plays a crucial role. Having earned its reputation as the most trusted supplier of high-quality products and solutions backed by superior customer service, Tokyo Cement Group has solidly reaffirmed its position as the leading partner in Nation-building.

Photo: Top Category Winners of the Tokyo Cement Annual Dealer Convention 2024 with the Managing Director, Group COO and Group General Manager – Marketing of the Tokyo Cement Group

Specialized Coaching to Empower Northern Cricket

Cricket in Sri Lanka is a unique phenomenon that binds our nation together in positivity and pride. The game continues to tear down barriers to bring almost every citizen to the streets, cheering, dancing and pulsating to a uniquely Sri Lankan rhythm united under one flag, one team. Right now, the entire nation yearns for that excitement of seeing our flag fly high once again. It goes without saying that in order to reclaim our victorious spot on the cricket world map, we must keep unearthing new talent and give them opportunities to sharpen their skills. In 2014, Tokyo Cement Group and the Foundation of Goodness set off on a mission to discover young cricketing talent from across the country. Together they organize monthly Cricket Coaching Camps where youngsters are given the chance to polish up their raw talent under the guidance of the best coaches and cricket experts. The objective is to give budding school cricketers from remote backgrounds the opportunity to realize their dreams of a successful sporting career. The initiative takes place at the Foundation of Goodness’ world-class practice facilities in Seenigama and Hikkaduwa, where monthly Cricket Coaching Camps are conducted. The sessions are led by the celebrated coaching staff of renowned cricket coach Mr. Hemantha Devapriya, for schoolgirls and boys aged between 13 to 19 years. The success of the Southern cricket camps prompted Tokyo Cement to extend the program to the Northern areas in 2017, in search of future cricketing sensations. The program enrolls many young cricketers from areas such as Jaffna, Killinochchi, Oddusudan, Mankulam, Mullaitivu, Vavuniya and Mannar. Mr. Anura De Silva, Sports Director of the Foundation of Goodness, heads the project which aims to take 50 Northern youth under its wings to train them to become sparkling cricket stars who bring glory to our motherland. Upon witnessing the richness of talent in the North, Mr. De Silva comments, “Right throughout history, Sri Lankan cricket got enriched thanks to players from different parts of the country who infused their unique styles to the game. There is tremendous talent yet to be discovered in our rural areas. Our aim is to uncover these gems that can enhance our cricket legacy in the future”. The showcase of talent in the North has so far surpassed all expectations, igniting our hopes for another Sri Lankan cricketing spring in the near future. Tokyo Cement Group is an avid supporter of cricket on the frontline to uplift the game. The Company firmly believes in the game’s ability to build bridges across geographic and social boundaries characterizing true cricketing spirit. The coaching camps conducted by the Foundation of Goodness under the patronage of Tokyo Cement have so far trained over 1,000 girl and boy school cricketers, producing many National-level players who represent Sri Lanka in the World Cricket Arena. By providing youth from every part of the country an opportunity to unite in cricket, the company is laying the foundation of brotherhood, understanding and respect, that contributes to Nation-building which remains Tokyo Cement’s vision as the leader in the local construction industry.

Tokyo Cement Strengthens Partnership with Society of Structural Engineers, Sri Lanka

Tokyo Cement Group reinforced the long-standing partnership with the Society of Structural Engineers Sri Lanka (SSESL) for 2023, with the Sole Sponsorship of the Question Time Programme for the month of May. At the forum, Eng. Prof. Kushan Wijesundara from the Department of Civil Engineering, University of Peradeniya delivered a lecture on ‘Response of Shear Critical Reinforced Concrete Elements’. Over sixty participants representing engineering undergraduates, practicing structural engineers, and construction sector professionals were present at this event, held at the Wimalasurendra Auditorium of the Institute of Engineers Sri Lanka (IESL).

Eng. Prof. Kushan Wijesundara, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Peradeniya presenting at the QT Programme

President, Eng. (Mrs.) Tharangika Jayasundara, Vice President, Eng. Ananda Senarath, Immediate Past President, Eng. Nandana Abeysuriya, Past President, Eng. Srilal Sahabandu Secretary, Eng. D.T. Rajasekaran, Treasurer, Eng. L. Gunawickrama and Committee Member, Eng. Dr. Nihal Somaratna, of SSESL were among the prominent industry experts and eminent academics present at the event. Eng. Prof. Kushan Wijesundara in his presentation discussed the importance and methodologies of predicting the behaviour of reinforced concrete structural elements by analyzing the Axial–Flexure–Shear (N-M-V) interaction. He illustrated several approaches using Eurocode 2, numerical tools, and analytical models on how to ascertain the phenomenon, citing real-world case studies, garnering much enthusiasm from the participants.

The Question Time is a monthly knowledge-sharing session organized by the SSESL, a professional body representing practicing engineers and academics in the field of structural engineering in Sri Lanka. It is a forum not only for professional and student members but also for the general public to discuss new technological trends and developments in structural engineering, sharing knowledge among like-minded industry experts. Distinguished engineering doyens in the field and renowned academics from leading university engineering faculties share their experiences and knowledge at each session, where the latest scientific findings and case study experience in modern engineering solutions are presented. These Question Time programmes are one of the Continuous Professional Development programmes conducted by SSESL on the last Tuesday of every month for the last three decades, to encourage and add value to its membership engagement. It is an opportunity for corporate industry partners to permeate new ideas that are trending in structural engineering with the professional fraternity.

Participants at the Society of Structural Engineers’ May 2023 QT Seminar

Tokyo Cement Group, being a long-standing corporate partner for the SSESL for over a decade, renewed the affiliation for 2023 by undertaking to be the sole sponsor of four Question Time Programmes and the Annual Sessions in the Society’s annual event calendar. As part of this far-reaching professional partnership, Tokyo Cement aims to create fresh dialogue on the latest developments in the construction industry by bringing in field experts to discuss a range of timely topics. As Sri Lanka’s largest manufacturer of cement, concrete, and cement-based innovative products, Tokyo Cement Group is delighted to deepen the partnership with the SSESL. By becoming a prime sponsor of the pre-eminent professional body, the Company aims to facilitate world-class knowledge sharing to inspire our professionals who play a vital role in uplifting the local construction industry. –/

Tokyo Cement Group expands “Nourishing the Future” School Nutrition Program

Tokyo Cement Group recently extended its “Nourishing the Future” school nutrition program by adding 179 students from four schools in Siyambalanduwa in the Monaragala District. The initiative includes primary grade students of Wattegama Sirimal Kanista Vidyalaya in Kotiyagala, Bambaragasroda Kanista Vidyalaya in Siyambalanduwa, and Barawaya Primary School and Danakiriya Kanista Vidyalaya in Kandaudapanguwa, who now receive a balanced mid-day meal on all five days of the week through this scheme.

Tokyo Cement was silently operating this benevolent social upliftment program for several years in the past, where they provided mid-day meals to over 300 students of Thiriyaya Maha Vidyalaya in Trincomalee. With the addition of Monaragala schools, Tokyo Cement Group’s “Nourishing the Future” mid-day meal program now touches the lives of over 475 schoolchildren hailing from backgrounds of reduced circumstances.

Mr. Praveen Gnanam, Director Innovations, Tokyo Cement Group, commenting on the expansion of this far-reaching initiative said, “The purpose of this program is to address the childhood malnutrition epidemic that has grown exponentially over the course of this year. Left unchecked, malnutrition has the potential to cause both mental and physiological developmental diseases for future generations. Furthermore, parents are more likely to send their children to school if they are fed, thereby increasing access to education for those most impacted by the economic crisis.”

179 students in 4 schools in Moneragala receive a balanced mid-day meal through Tokyo Cement Group’s “Nourishing the Future” school nutrition program

The daily meal plans follow the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Education, to ensure all main food groups consisting of greens, pulses, a fresh dairy product and a locally sourced fruit is included therein, to supplement their diet and fulfil the children’s nutritional growth needs. To ensure the students receive a wholesome lunch on a consistent basis and the children’s growth milestones are achieved progressively, Tokyo Cement has implemented a comprehensive monitoring process with help from each schools’ administration, parent groups, Zonal Director of the Ministry of Education and local health officers attached to the Ministry of Health.

The daily meal-plans include all main food groups to fulfil the children’s nutritional growth needs

The Zonal Educational Director played a key role in coordinating the program between the schools’ authorities and Tokyo Cement. On ground, the program is executed under the supervision of the principal and teachers in each school, whilst voluntary teams of parents help prepare the meals. Tokyo Cement has also stepped up the program by supplying the basic utensils and amenities required, to standardize each school kitchen to operate under optimal hygienic conditions during food preparation. The local Public Health Inspectors supervise the program by visiting the schools on a regular basis to ensure the meals are prepared adhering to strict health guidelines.

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Meals are prepared by voluntary teams of parents under strict hygienic conditions supervised by local health authorities and the principal and teachers in each school

This compassionate endeavour was started by Tokyo Cement Group’s Founder Chairman, Deshamanya A.Y.S. Gnanam, who during his time saw the importance of providing a healthy meal to schoolchildren from low-income families to encourage school attendance as a much-needed boost to complete their primary education. Tokyo Cement Group’s decision to expand the program comes at a time when several international agencies such as UNICEF and the WB have flagged the rising rates of malnutrition and growth deficiencies among children in all parts of Sri Lanka, especially in low-income segments, due to the rapid rise of food inflation. The Nourishing the Future school nutrition program addresses this issue with a tangible solution that lifts a huge burden off the parents, who are on a daily struggle to provide a square meal for their children amidst dire economic conditions.

The program is among the many social empowerment projects deployed by the Company with a profound impact on the lives of the people of our country. Tokyo Cement Group’s commitment to social responsibility breathes life through initiatives such as this, by which they have successfully integrated social welfare and environmental conservation into its corporate DNA, as part of the vision to become the leading partner in Nation-building.