HNB PLC, the foremost private sector bank in Sri Lanka, has unveiled a new partnership with CICRA Campus, a highly respected institution for higher education. This collaboration aims to offer students accessible payment plans, enabling them to pursue their academic and technical goals without financial burdens. A highlight of this venture is the innovative Study-Now-Pay-Later program, crafted to ease the financial strain on students and their families while ensuring access to excellent education. Through this initiative, students can utilize educational loans from HNB and begin repayment upon the successful conclusion of their study programs.
"As we navigate the challenges of the present, it's imperative to invest in readying the next generation of leaders and thinkers who will propel our nation's progress. Regardless of economic circumstances, access to higher education should be inclusive and equitable for all. HNB is proud to collaborate with a premier educational institution in CICRA Campus to introduce this scheme, confident that it will foster a more knowledgeable society and ultimately enrich the future of our country", HNB AGM - Personal Financial Services, Kanchana Karunagama said.
This scheme offers a crucial aspect of flexibility in repayment. After finishing their undergraduate program, students have the option to start repaying the loan principal six months post-graduation, facilitating a smooth transition into the workforce. During the study period, parents can assist by covering interest payments. After graduation, students or their parents can choose to continue repaying the loan through installment payments.
"With the Study-Now-Pay-Later scheme, we provide students with the financial flexibility they need to pursue their academic and career aspirations. This partnership with HNB marks a significant milestone in our commitment to fostering accessible and affordable education. Together, we are reshaping the landscape of higher education, making it more inclusive and conducive to the aspirations of our students", CICRA Campus Group Director/CEO Boshan Dayaratne stated.
Notably, this scheme extends its advantages to students who aim to pursue higher education abroad. It offers a solution to the financial challenges of studying overseas by allowing students to spend one or two years studying in Sri Lanka before embarking on their international studies.
CICRA Campus is a leading educational institution in Sri Lanka, offering high-quality cybersecurity, technology, and academia education. With partnerships with renowned institutions such as Deakin University Australia, Wrexham University UK, Melbourne Polytechnic Australia, Leaders Institute Australia, and Asia e University Malaysia, along with EC Council USA, along with a commitment to excellence, CICRA Campus is shaping the future of education in Sri Lanka and beyond.
HNB stands out as one of Sri Lanka's largest and most technologically advanced private banks, boasting 256 customer centers. It has earned a prestigious position among the Top 10 Best Corporate Citizens, receiving this recognition from the CCC BCCSA for the 14th consecutive time. Additionally, HNB has been honored as the Best Retail Bank in Sri Lanka for the 14th consecutive year at the Asian Banker Global Excellence in Retail Financial Services Awards 2024. Furthermore, it has been acknowledged with awards such as Best Service in Trade Finance (Asia Banks), Market Leader in Trade Finance (Asia Banks), and Best SME Bank at the Asiamoney Awards 2023.