EDB and University of Moratuwa Partner to Boost Innovation in Engineering and Energy Sectors
The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Engineering Faculty of the University of Moratuwa by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening collaboration between academia and entrepreneurs in the fields of construction, power and energy, and engineering services in Sri Lanka.
This collaboration seeks to support Research and Development (R&D) initiatives that enhance service quality for international clients, thereby improving the global competitiveness of Sri Lankan engineering services. The initiative is expected to attract a wider global clientele while bridging the gap between academia and the private sector, leveraging collective expertise to drive innovation and economic growth, which in turn will elevate Sri Lanka’s global standing. Additionally, the partnership will stimulate industry growth and provide students with valuable hands-on experience in sectors critical to national development.
On September 4, 2024, the EDB and the University of Moratuwa formalized their partnership with the signing of the MoU, marking a key milestone in their collaboration. The event was attended by prominent figures, including Prof. Niranjan Gunawardana, Vice Chancellor of the University of Moratuwa, and Dr. Kingsly Bernard, Chairman & CEO of the EDB, who signed the MoU on behalf of their respective institutions. Other notable attendees from the University of Moratuwa included Dr. D. P. Chandrasekara, Deputy Vice Chancellor; Professor Udayanga Hemapala, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering; and Mr. Dishan Jayantha, Registrar. EDB representatives in attendance included Mrs. Chandrika D. Dharmasena, Director General; Mrs. Anoma Premathilaka, Additional Director General; Mrs. Thakshila Wijerathne, Legal Director; and Mrs. Kumudini Irugalbandara, Assistant Director. Private sector participants included Mr. Praharsha Gangaboda, General Manager of Venora Lanka Power Panels (Pvt) Ltd, and Mr. K.A.T.D. Bandara, R&D Engineer at Sentinel Systems.
During the event, Prof. Niranjan Gunawardana and Dr. Kingsley Bernard emphasized the importance of collaborative R&D efforts. They highlighted that such partnerships are crucial for fostering sustainable practices in key sectors, benefiting both the business community and society as a whole. In today’s competitive global market, they stressed, industry stakeholders must work together with academic and corporate partners to advance R&D, which is essential for developing high-quality products capable of succeeding in international markets.
This two-year initiative, which began this year, is designed to foster collaboration among selected companies to develop innovative solutions that enhance global market competitiveness. The EDB aims to facilitate partnerships between industry and academia, connecting businesses with university research to solve complex challenges through practical applications.
Currently, two projects have been initiated under this collaboration by Venora Lanka Power Panels (Pvt) Ltd and Sentinel Systems. These projects focus on developing IoT-enabled power distribution systems and Advanced Building Management Systems. By utilizing cutting-edge technologies, these initiatives aim to address rising energy costs and ease financial burdens on individuals and businesses. The projects will also empower users to monitor their daily electricity consumption, transforming complex data into actionable insights for both individuals and organizational leaders.
Both the EDB and the University of Moratuwa are confident that this partnership will significantly advance the development of innovative business solutions for Sri Lanka’s construction, renewable energy, and engineering sectors. They anticipate that this collaboration will inspire new ideas and drive progress in the field of renewable energy.
Below are images showcasing the progress of these projects, currently being tested at the LECO-MOU Smart Grid Research Lab at the University of Moratuwa.
