Keeping IT trilling in Kegalle

by Ruwanthi Abeyakoon

IT: At present Information Technology (IT) has spread all over the world. Hailing from Mawanella in the Kegalle District he started his business in the IT sector. The computers and mobile phones that are manufactured in developed countries go through his hands when they pack-up.

"I undertake computer and mobile phone repairs. There are fifteen people working at my shop. I trained them before recruiting. We have most of the equipment that are needed to repair computers and phones.

We use machines to repair the computers and phones, as they are reliable. Our aim is to supply whatever the customer needs on time. Meeting deadlines is important to provide the customers a good service," Managing Director, Rajapakse Electronics and Trax Technologies, Crishanthe Rajapakse, said.

In 1989 after studies, Rajapakse started the business. The business, which was small at the beginning, has developed now. "My father was a business man. He had a motor spare parts shop. I wanted to diversify and start business in a different field. Money was the problem at first. I got a bank loan and some of my friends supported me.

"I import computers. We are strong in mobile phones and computers. I also run a communication centre," he explained.

"I sell Nokia and Samsung phones. I am the only distributor in the district for Lanka Bell phones. I supply computers for Colombo and Kandy too but mobile phones are distributed only in Kegalle," he added.

Rajapakse pointed out that labour was the main issue in developing the business. "There is a lack of communication. Most people are not service oriented. You can't have a back up because manpower is inadequate. We pay a very good salary still they are not service oriented," he said.

"People need technology. There is so much to do with technology. It is intertwined with lives and in a fast moving society technology is vital.

The mobile phone industry is growing fast too. Computers are also important and people are getting used to the new technology. I also run a cyber caf,, and have a good turn over.

Children are interested in computers," he added.

Rajapakse pointed out that many in the industry deceive customers. "Many suppliers cheat. When they provide phones they don't sell the originals.

They bring non-warranty phones into the market. But we do a genuine job. Recently I opened another mobile shop in Kegalle. I have a branch in Colombo where I sell computers only," he explained.

"Several special items that are used in this field we directly import. We bring them from Singapore. I want to expand the business. We are specialized in communication. There is hardly any place that offers what we have. We are on to more quality than going for cheaper ones. We get a crowd even from Warakapola," Rajapakse said.

He is the secretary of the Kegalle Chamber of Commerce and Industry and is a member of Business for Peace Alliance. "BPA helped me in expanding the business. It provided the opportunity to meet businessmen from other areas. I get orders even from Galle.

We exchange business ideas which are important in developing the businesses outside Colombo and the Western Province," he said.

Rajapakse is determined to serve the country providing the technology that is vital for development. "Through business we can create a better society. I am willing to share my knowledge and help others, while expanding my boundaries," he said.