PPM plays vital role

Project Procurement Management (PPM) plays a vital role in implementation of the mega-projects as the quality of life of human beings could only be improved by utilizing the funds allocated for mega-projects economically, efficiently and effectively, Supply and Materials Management Sri Lanka (ISMM) President Chandima Jayatilake said.

He was speaking at a press conference recently on an intensive training program on project procurement management which will be held from February 7-18 at the OPA.

He said that the Governments of developing countries receive funds, on multilateral and bilateral basis as well as from foreign funding agencies, billions of Dollars for maintaining projects to fulfil basic human needs and for Infrastructure developments. Thus a major share of annual public expenditure of the Government is allocated to acquire current and capital assets. However, he regretted that, a considerable amount of these funds are either unutilized, under-utilized or wasted due to the lack of expertise or competencies by the implementers of these projects.

He said that those who do not possess the required knowledge and experience, hesitate to initiate procurement action very often, causing implementation delays in development projects. Therefore, any procurement activity conducted, non-complying with the appropriate guidelines and procedures will be considered as mis-procurement, leading to withdrawal of funds by the funding agency.

The PPM focuses essentially on engaging contractors, suppliers, service providers and employing of consultants.

RK