Embarking on a journey of academic exploration, the Department of Industrial Management, Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya, conducted an academic forum on April 1st, 2024, in conjunction with SCSE 2024.

Titled 'Shaping the Future of Academia with GenAI: Insights and Considerations,' this forum brought together academics of the University of Kelaniya to explore how artificial intelligence can transform education.

The event facilitated an extensive exchange of ideas, highlighting various ways in which AI can stimulate innovation in teaching and learning. The participants of the forum engaged in spirited discussions, exploring diverse AI resources—from the capabilities of ChatGPT to platforms like Elicit, SCISPACE, and Magic School—each offering unique avenues for enriching pedagogy, expanding knowledge horizons, and advancing research.

In terms of research, the forum addressed the potential of AI tools in creating literature reviews, methodologies and references. The participants of the forum further examined the ethical implications of using AI tools, proposing their utilization as a guide rather than a replacement for traditional research methods. To mitigate potential negative impacts on student performance, such as over-reliance on AI, the forum proposed the implementation of a viva at the conclusion of research projects. This approach, coupled with extended Q&A sessions, was suggested to ensure comprehensive evaluation and understanding of the students' work.

The consensus was that using AI tools in research is acceptable, provided they are employed judiciously and effectively, as some AI-generated results have been found to be inaccurate. The discussion also highlighted areas where AI falls short, such as critical thinking, narrative flow, and emotional resonance in writing. Further, concerns about potential unemployment due to AI advancements were raised, alongside deliberations on the legal changes that may be necessary to address these challenges.

All in all, the forum emphasized the transformative potential of AI in academia while emphasizing the need for ethical considerations, critical oversight, and adaptive regulations to navigate its future impact.

In collaboration with the General Sir John Kothalawela Defence University, Southern Campus, the Department of Industrial Management organized a three-day outbound training program for first-year undergraduates. This enriching program provided the undergraduates with a blend of indoor and outdoor activities designed to enhance their practical skills and teamwork.

The program featured a variety of engaging indoor activities, including sessions on dining etiquette and grooming. The outdoor segment was particularly adventurous, focusing on jungle survival skills. Activities included hiking, cooking in the wilderness, and learning vital survival strategies. Additionally, the program incorporated sight visits and various group activities that promoted fellowship and collective problem-solving.

This program was made possible by the dedicated efforts of key individuals at the General Sir John Kothalawela Defence University. Our deepest gratitude goes to Major General L.C.R. Jayasuriya, the Rector of the University, for his unwavering support. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Senior Deputy Dean Commander S.M.T. Priyadarshana and his team for their invaluable cooperation and guidance throughout the program.

The outbound training program provided an invaluable opportunity for first-year undergraduates to develop essential life skills and build strong teamwork capabilities. The diverse activities ensured that the undergraduates were not only educated but also challenged, leading to personal growth and enhanced resilience.

We are immensely grateful to the General Sir John Kothalawela Defence University for their collaboration and look forward to future opportunities that will continue to benefit the undergraduates of the department­.

The Master of Information Technology program, intake 2024, of the Department of Industrial Management in University of Kelaniya, began on a high note with the successful inauguration of its 6th batch on July 27, 2024. 

The event commenced with a warm and insightful welcome speech by the Head of the Department, Prof. Janaka Wijayanayake. The ceremony was graced by the presence of the Dean of the Faculty of Science, Prof. Sudath Kalingamudali, and the Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, Prof. Kapila Seneviratne Kalingamudali, who, through their speeches, inspired the new cohort of graduates to embrace the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

The inauguration ceremony concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by the Coordinator of the Master of  Information Technology, Dr. Dilani Wickramaarachchi. The gathering included a satisfactory count of 45 graduates. 

Following the inauguration, the students were provided with the opportunity to get acquainted with the Coordinator of Master of  Information Technology program, Dr. Dilani Wickramaarachchi, setting the stage for a supportive and encouraging learning environment throughout their academic journey. In addition, an enlightening three-hour lecture on Computer Systems by Dr. Keerthi Wijayasiriwardhane was conducted for the students. 

The Department of Industrial Management in University of Kelaniya takes immense pride in welcoming these bright minds into its academic community, and the inauguration of the Master of Information Technology program marks another milestone in the department's commitment to excellence in education and technological advancement. 

The Master of Data Analytics program, intake 2024, of the Department of Industrial Management in University of Kelaniya, began on a high note with the successful inauguration of its 4th batch on March 30, 2024. 

The event commenced with a warm and insightful welcome speech by the Head of the Department, Prof. Janaka Wijayanayake. The ceremony was graced by the presence of the Dean of the Faculty of Science, Prof. Sudath Kalingamudali, who, through his speech, inspired the new cohort of graduates to embrace the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. The inauguration ceremony concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by the Coordinator of the Master of Data Analytics program, Dr. Chathura Rajapakse. The gathering included a satisfactory count of approximately 50 graduates. 

Following the inauguration, the students were provided with the opportunity to get acquainted with the Coordinator of Master of Data Analytics program, Dr. Chathura Rajapakse, setting the stage for a supportive and encouraging learning environment throughout their academic journey. In addition, an enlightening three-hour lecture on Programming for Data Science Computer Systems by Dr. Chathura Rajapakse was conducted for the students. 

The Department of Industrial Management in University of Kelaniya takes immense pride in welcoming these bright minds into its academic community, and the inauguration of the Master of Data Analytics program marks another milestone in the department's commitment to excellence in education and technological advancement.