19th October 2005 In recognition of the contribution, commitment and outstanding services rendered to the Sri Lankan banking sector, the Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka has awarded an Honorary Fellowship to Asoka de Silva the CEO/General Manager of People's Bank. This is the first such accolade to be awarded to an officer of People's Bank. The Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka awards 2 honorary fellowships each year, taking in to consideration the exceptional leadership qualities and outstanding contribution made by the individual towards the future of the banking industry. Complementing Mr. de Silva on his far-sighted approach and remarkable resilience in repositioning People's Bank, IBSL unanimously decided to laud these efforts by awarding this honorary Fellowship to the Chief Executive Officer of People's Bank.

Mr. de Silva is a B.A (Hons) Graduate from the University of Ceylon , Peradeniya and an Alumni of the Harvard Business School, USA where he followed the Advanced Management Programme, which is a rare academic exposure. Mr. de Silva was instrumental in effecting key changes in the vision, work ethos and market positioning of People's Bank. With the support of his management team he was successful in turning around the bank amidst many challenges and constraints. Mr. de Silva's courage, determination and drive helped fast track the bank's restructuring process which was initiated in the year 2001. Instilling a new set of values and working culture within the organization, he successfully guided and led the 10,000 strong workforce in the implementation of the bank's restructuring plan.

This honour is recognition of and a reward for, the proactive role played by him in various capacities during a period spanning more than three decades in the service of People's Bank. Mr. de Silva's leadership skills have been on display in initiating the first large scale credit recovery programme of the then International Division of the bank in the 1980's and in his role as co-ordinator in the World Bank funded operational review of the bank in the early 90's, which set the pace for the eventual positive changes in People's Bank that are very much evident now.