http://repository.rjt.ac.lk/handle/123456789/358 2026-07-11T18:16:07Z http://repository.rjt.ac.lk/handle/123456789/8323 DETERMINANTS OF SOCIAL SUSTAINABILITY IN MICROFINANCE GROUPS IN RURAL SRI LANKA: A QUALITATIVE STUDY ON THE ROLE OF TRUST AND COOPERATION, CONFLICT MANAGEMENT, GROUP FUNCTIONING, AND SOCIAL NETWORKS Wijerathna, WAID; Niranjala2, SAU; Adikari4, , AMP; Bandara5, , HGKN Microfinance has emerged as a crucial mechanism for sustainable development, socially, economically, and environmentally, particularly in rural contexts of developing countries. While the economic sustainability of microfinance groups has been studied comprehensively, social sustainability, particularly in rural Sri Lanka, remains underexplored. This study examines the dynamics of group interactions and their role in sustainability to recognize the key determinants of social sustainability in microfinance groups in rural Sri Lanka. It focuses on social and economic inclusion, leadership empowerment, and community well-being. Additionally, the study reveals the role of leadership, trust, and conflict resolution in sustaining groups. Sixteen interviews were conducted with leaders of microfinance groups in rural areas of the Anuradhapura district in Sri Lanka. The interviews employed a qualitative approach, utilizing a pre-tested interview guide and face-to-face interviews, a purposive sampling method, descriptive analysis, and in-depth thematic analysis while preserving the research ethics The findings Journal of Institute of human Resource Advancement University of Colombo 80 of the study revealed that trust and cooperation, conflict management, group functioning, and the impact of social networks on microfinance groups significantly influence the social sustainability of these groups in rural Sri Lanka, enhancing social capital and cohesion, leadership empowerment, socio-cultural context, economic inclusion, and community well-being. Furthermore, this study highlights the importance of adopting a comprehensive and holistic approach to enhancing socio-cultural and economic inclusion through microfinance in rural Sri Lanka. The social sustainability of microfinance groups leads to overall sustainability through community-based growth and development, poverty reduction, and prominent financial inclusion. Keywords: Conflict Management, Group Functioning, Microfinance, Social Sustainability, Social Networks, Trust and Cooperation, Sri Lanka 2025-06-01T00:00:00Z http://repository.rjt.ac.lk/handle/123456789/8322 Study on Factors Influencing Financial Literacy among Paddy Farmers in Sri Lanka Bandar, Kolitha Nishshank; Madawalage, Tishani Diwyangi; Addikarige, Nalinda Nuwan2 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z http://repository.rjt.ac.lk/handle/123456789/8321 Unveiling the Nexus of Cryptocurrency as a Mode of Payment in the SME Sector in Sri Lanka Nuwan, A.N.,; Bandara, H.G.K.N.,; Ranasinghe, D.K.,; 4Heenkenda, S.; 5Damayanthi., B.W.R &; Bulankulama State-of-the-art technology has changed virtually every aspect of global operations, prompting individuals to switch to a contemporary platform rather than traditional business processes. The evolution of payment methods has shifted more towards virtual payments than ever before, and the global spread of cryptocurrency adoption is remarkable. This study aimed to analyze the influencing factors and degree of readiness of SMEs to embrace cryptocurrency as a form of payment, with a particular focus on SMEs in Sri Lanka. The study employed a quantitative survey approach and gathered 240 responses from SMEs registered with the Chamber of Commerce and the Ministry of Industries in Sri Lanka. A self-administered questionnaire method was used to collect primary data, which were then analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. According to the findings, respondents were enthusiastic about using cryptocurrencies as a payment method. The study revealed that the SME sector in Sri Lanka is a breeding ground for new payment technologies, particularly among male-owned service-sector SMEs. This study further revealed that social influence and Trust go hand in hand, and that Trust has a significant impact on the adoption of cryptocurrencies, particularly in contexts where distrust in SMEs is a greater challenge and perceptions of the rule of law are strongest. The findings implied that transaction openness and more accessible information on the opaque legal issues around cryptocurrencies, particularly the distinct roles of the many regulatory authorities and platform security, should be reinforced. Regular security audits, disclosing vulnerabilities and solutions, and responding to users' complaints and inquiries must all be managed in a well-organized manner within the unorganized sector. 2024-06-01T00:00:00Z http://repository.rjt.ac.lk/handle/123456789/8320 Determinants of Agri-Based Venture Creation Among Rural Farmers in Sri Lanka: A Qualitative Case Study Bandara, H.G.K.N.,; Heenkenda, S,; Damayanthi., B.W.R This study explores the determinants that influence rural farmers in Sri Lanka to establish agricultural-based business ventures. The agricultural sector plays a crucial role in strengthening the rural economy by providing both direct and indirect employment opportunities; however, rural communities face challenges such as unstable Income, unemployment, price fluctuations, labor shortages, youth migration, and land fragmentation. A qualitative case study approach was used, with primary data collected through a pre-tested interview guide from 10 purposively selected farmers who had already started agri-businesses. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings revealed that key factors motivating farmers to start businesses included the desire to earn profit rather than a salary, limited job opportunities, financial ability, availability of production factors, willingness to take risks, the aspiration to be independent, education and vocational training, family and stakeholder support, and access to excess labor or time. The study concludes that profit orientation, lack of alternative employment, financial resources, infrastructure, and family support are the most significant determinants of rural agri-entrepreneurship. Respondents also noted that government regulations negatively affected business growth and expressed dissatisfaction with government support. The study recommends financial and capital assistance, knowledge and awareness programs, and stronger government engagement with rural communities to promote sustainable agri-business development. 2024-06-01T00:00:00Z