Being exposed to real-world challenges and solutions in the small and medium enterprise (SME) sector, along with aligning academic learning with industry practices, will eventually become a guiding force for undergraduates eager to advance their careers in the field of industry and technology. As Yoon (2022) asserts, “The community is composed of early- to growth-stage companies from around the world that are involved in the design, development, and deployment of new technologies and innovations, and poised to have a significant impact on business and society.”
The Department of Industrial Management is committed to upskilling students in every way possible during their undergraduate journey before they enter the workforce. An insightful session titled "Overcoming Challenges: Empowering SMEs with Innovative Solutions" was conducted on the 24th of September, 2024, specifically arranged for first-year students as part of their Industry and Technology course. The event featured a distinguished guest speaker, Dr. Philip Nehri Mullegama, the Chief Advisor to the Sri Lankan government on the national project aimed at creating 500 brands for the country. Dr. Mullegama, also the former CEO of Chandanalepa Cosmetics, brought a wealth of experience and insights to the discussion. His role in guiding the national branding initiative and his extensive background in the cosmetics industry provided students with invaluable perspectives on navigating challenges and seizing opportunities within the SME landscape.
During the session, Dr. Mullegama highlighted the importance of innovation and strategic thinking in overcoming common hurdles faced by SMEs in Sri Lanka. He shared his experiences in brand development, emphasizing the need for creative and resilient approaches to foster growth and sustainability in business. Students were encouraged to think beyond conventional solutions and explore innovative paths to success, making the session highly engaging and interactive.
Photo Credits: IMSSA Media unit
The session not only enriched the students' understanding of the SME sector but also underscored the vital role that young professionals and future entrepreneurs can play in shaping the country's economic landscape. Dr. Mullegama's insights served as a powerful reminder of the potential for technology and innovation to transform industries and drive national development.
This session marked a significant step in bridging the gap between academia and industry, equipping students with practical knowledge and inspiring them to contribute meaningfully to the SME sector in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, to give the next generation of innovators a voice in addressing global issues and the opportunity to contribute to the exploration of future trends, the Department of Industrial Management will continue to strive toward this goal.
Written by - I. Fernando & D. Lorensuhewa