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Empowering Future Entrepreneurs – British Council Hosts YLGIB Workshop at KDU

The British Council’s Youth-Leadership for Green and Inclusive Businesses (YLGIB) project successfully conducted a two-day workshop on February 27th and 28th at General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU). The workshop was organized in collaboration with the Career Guidance Unit, Entrepreneurship Lab, and the Department of Languages to engage students in sustainable and inclusive entrepreneurship. It provided them with practical knowledge and skills to integrate environmental sustainability and social inclusion into their business ideas and career paths.

Using a non-formal education approach, the sessions covered key topics such as sustainable business models, green skills, circular economy principles, and impact-driven enterprise planning. Through interactive activities, group discussions, and case studies, students explored real-world challenges and opportunities in developing businesses that drive positive environmental and social change. The hands-on nature of the workshop ensured that participants not only understood the concepts but also learned how to apply them in practical settings.

The second day of the workshop was particularly engaging, featuring insightful sessions on future business leadership, negotiation skills, e-commerce, and industry case studies. These sessions were expertly conducted by Mr. Hasanka Padukka, Mr. Ramzi Zaindeen, Mr. Chameera Wickramasinghe, and Mr. Ayon Silva, who shared valuable industry insights and experiences. Their expertise helped students gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in building sustainable businesses.

Throughout the workshop, interactive exercises and discussions played a crucial role in fostering entrepreneurial skills and innovative thinking. Participants were encouraged to think critically about business sustainability and social responsibility, inspiring them to develop ventures that contribute to a greener and more inclusive economy.

This workshop was part of the broader YLGIB initiative, which seeks to empower Sri Lankan youth as changemakers in sustainable business. The event received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with participants expressing enthusiasm for applying the concepts learned to their future careers and business ventures.

By bridging entrepreneurship with sustainability, the YLGIB workshop at KDU played a vital role in shaping a new generation of socially responsible and environmentally conscious business leaders. It served as a platform to inspire students to embrace innovation, drive sustainable business models, and contribute to a greener future.

Special thanks go to the Department of Languages for introducing the British Council to the KDU Entrepreneurship Lab and Career Guidance Unit.

VisionCraft: The Path to Research Excellence

The Final Year Project Insight Session, organized by the CSSL GenZ Chapter KDU in collaboration with the Entrepreneurial Support, Industrial Training, and Career Guidance Unit (eICU), was successfully conducted on 23rd January 2025 at the KDU premises. The event aimed to inspire and empower students in their academic journey, featuring three parallel sessions tailored to IT/IS, DBA, and CS/SE/CE disciplines.

Session Highlights

IT/IS Session

  • Expert Speaker
    • Mr. Tharaka Galappaththi (Head of Quality Engineering, Cut+Dry)
  • Internal Panel Members
    • Dr. (Maj) RMM Pradeep (Retd)
    • Ms. WJ Samaraweera

DBA Session

  • Expert Speaker
    • Mr. BGL Balasooriya (Head of Capacity Development, Virtusa)
  • Internal Panel Members
    • Dr. (Mrs.) DU Vidanagama
    • Ms. RGUI Meththananda

CS/SE/CE Session

  • Expert Speaker
    • Mr. Sidath Weerasinhe (Senior Technical Lead)

 

  • Internal Panel Members
    • Dr. ADAI Gunasekara
    • Dr. Kaneeka Vidanage
    • Prof. RLW Koggalage

The event provided students with practical research tips, strategies, and expert perspectives, enabling them to align their final-year projects with industry trends. It empowered students to transform their ideas into impactful innovations, showcasing the university’s commitment to academic and professional excellence.

Thank you to all participants, speakers, and panel members for making this event a resounding success!

Mastering the Art of CV Writing with an Industry Expert

The Faculty of Computing at KDU, in collaboration with the Entrepreneurial Support Industrial Training and Career Guidance Unit, successfully conducted an insightful online session on professional CV writing. This session equipped students with the essential skills and strategies needed to create impactful CVs tailored to meet industry standards and expectations.

Held on 29th January 2025 at 6:00 PM, the session was exclusively designed for Intake 39 students of FOC. It was conducted by Ms. Suhasiny Rajendran, a Chartered HR Professional with extensive expertise in HR for IT, BPO, and export sectors. With over a decade of experience, including 7+ years in the IT software industry, Ms. Rajendran provided invaluable guidance on how to effectively present qualifications and experiences to potential employers. She emphasized self-confidence, teamwork, and diversity, inspiring students to create inclusive and professional profiles.

The session offered a unique opportunity for undergraduates to gain practical insights from an accomplished professional in the field, marking a significant step toward enhancing their employability and career readiness.

CV Writing Workshop 2025
The Faculty Career Guidance Unit successfully conducted its first workshop of the year on CV Writing on 30th January 2025, from 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM at Classroom 6-2. This insightful session was organized under the leadership of Dr. Kalpana Ambepitiya, Director of the KDU Career Guidance Unit, and Mr. Lahiru Gunathilake, Faculty Career Guidance Advisor. The workshop was conducted by Ms. Sandamali Ranasinghe, Deputy General Manager – Talent Acquisition and Employer Branding at MAS CAPITAL (PRIVATE) LIMITED, with additional facilitation by Mr. Malindhu Samarawickrama, Senior Executive – Human Resources, along with a dedicated team. This session provided students with a valuable opportunity to engage with industry professionals, gain essential insights into effective CV writing techniques, and enhance their employability skills. Participants learned the best practices for crafting impactful CVs, aligning their resumes with industry expectations, and improving their professional presentation. Students from Intake 40 under the Faculty of Management, Social Sciences, and Humanities, pursuing BSc in Logistics Management, BSc in Management Technical Sciences, and BSc in Social Sciences, actively participated in the workshop and gained maximum benefits from the event. The Faculty Career Guidance Unit remains committed to organizing such career development initiatives to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their professional journeys.  
Faculty of Engineering Career Fair 2024

The Faculty of Engineering (FOE) Career Fair 2024 was successfully held on the 7th of November 2024, marking another milestone in connecting engineering undergraduates with industry leaders.

The inauguration ceremony was graced by Prof. Thushara Weerawardane, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, as the Chief Guest, while Dr. (Eng.) Tharaka Mohotty delivered an inspiring keynote address as the Keynote Speaker.

Adding further prestige to the event, the Vice Chancellor, Rear Admiral HGU Dammika Kumara, VSV, USP, psc, MMaritimePol, BSc (DS), and the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Defence and Administration), Major General CA Wickramasinghe USP USACGSC, visited the venue during the interview sessions. Their presence inspired both industry representatives and undergraduates, emphasizing the university’s commitment to fostering strong industry-academic collaborations.

This annual event offered invaluable opportunities for over 100 Day Scholars from Intake 38, representing disciplines such as Aeronautical, Biomedical, Civil, Electrical and Electronic, Electronic and Telecommunication, Mechanical, and Mechatronic Engineering.

A total of 15 esteemed companies participated in the career fair, providing a platform for students to explore internships, employment opportunities, and professional networking. The participating organizations included:

  1. Superloop Communications (Pvt) Ltd
  2. Vega Innovations / Codegen International (Pvt) Ltd
  3. Hayleys Fentons Ltd.
  4. MAS Holdings
  5. LTL Holdings (Pvt) Ltd
  6. Mediquipment Ltd.
  7. IPD Colombo (Pvt) Ltd
  8. Bandix Lanka Ltd.
  9. Amithi Power Consultants (Pvt) Ltd
  10. John Keells Properties
  11. Technomedics International (Pvt) Ltd
  12. Siam City Cement (Lanka) Ltd – INSEE Cement
  13. Lanka Pacific Aviation and Engineering
  14. ABEC Premier
  15. Isaro Automation Systems (Pvt) Ltd

The event was generously supported by ABEC Premier as the Gold Sponsor, IPD Colombo (Pvt) Ltd and LTL Holdings (Pvt) Ltd as the Silver Sponsor, and Vibhawa Consultant (Pvt) Ltd as the Bronze Sponsor.

The FOE Career Fair 2024 once again demonstrated the Faculty’s commitment to bridging the gap between academia and industry, empowering students to kickstart their professional journeys in the engineering field.

Promoting Green Entrepreneurship: The Director, CGU Speaks at ECOBIZ 2024

On May 21, 2024, Holy Family Convent, Bambalapitiya, hosted its Commerce Day event, themed “ECOBIZ 2024,” with Dr. Kalpana Ambepitiya, Director of the Career Guidance Unit, as the Chief Guest. The event focused on the critical topic of green entrepreneurship and the environmental responsibility we all share.

In her speech, Dr Ambepitiya emphasized the importance of green entrepreneurship, which is centred on creating businesses that have a positive impact on the environment. She highlighted how these entrepreneurs are at the forefront of innovation, developing solutions that reduce waste, conserve resources, and promote sustainability. Dr Ambepitiya discussed how eco-friendly practices, such as using renewable energy, sustainable materials, and minimizing carbon footprints, are essential for creating products and services that meet consumer needs while protecting the planet.

Dr. Ambepitiya also addressed the importance of environmental responsibility at an individual level, particularly for schoolchildren. She encouraged the adoption of sustainable habits, such as practising the three R’s—reduce, reuse, and recycle—conserving energy and water, and using sustainable transportation methods. These habits not only contribute to environmental preservation but also lay the groundwork for future green entrepreneurial ventures.

She urged the students to support eco-friendly products, stay informed about environmental issues, and share their knowledge with others. By integrating these habits into their daily lives, they can actively contribute to a more sustainable future and potentially inspire others to pursue green entrepreneurship.

ECOBIZ 2024 was a significant event that left a lasting impact, inspiring students to think green and act responsibly for the betterment of the planet.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: A Focus on Commerce Day at Good Shepherd Convent, Kandy

On June 11, 2024, Good Shepherd Convent, Kandy, celebrated its Commerce Day with the theme “Women Entrepreneurship” under the title Preneuria 2024. The event featured a guest speech delivered by Dr Kalpana Ambepitiya, Director of the Career Guidance Unit, who highlighted the crucial role women entrepreneurs play in shaping the economy.

In her speech, Dr. Ambepitiya underscored the historical significance of women in entrepreneurship, noting their remarkable ability to overcome barriers and establish successful businesses. She emphasized that these women have not only contributed to economic growth but have also driven innovation, created job opportunities, and promoted social change through their entrepreneurial ventures.

The event highlighted the vital role women entrepreneurs play in Sri Lanka, demonstrating resilience and ingenuity across various sectors. Their unique perspectives and skills enhance market diversity and are pivotal in driving the country’s economic development. Dr Ambepitiya emphasized that by empowering women in business, Sri Lanka can unlock significant untapped potential, fostering greater gender equality and boosting overall economic progress.

She also stressed that encouraging more women to participate in entrepreneurship is not just about economic growth; it is about building a more inclusive and balanced society. Preneuria 2024 served as an inspiring platform to underscore the importance of women entrepreneurs and their impact on the nation’s economy, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of the value of gender equality in business.

KDU Entrepreneurship Club Sparks Creativity with “Cookiefy” Cookie Design Competition

In a bid to foster an entrepreneurial mindset among undergraduates, the KDU Entrepreneurship Club launched an innovative event titled “Cookiefy, the Cookie Design Competition.” The event, held yesterday, was a resounding success, filled with creativity, joy, and vibrant cookie designs.

Participants were encouraged to disconnect from their electronic devices and tap into their natural creativity. They were provided with minimal tools and materials and challenged to design a cookie within a small, limited space. This approach aimed to awaken the hidden creative potential in each participant, demonstrating that sometimes, less is more when it comes to innovation.

The competition not only showcased the creative talents of the students but also highlighted the importance of giving young entrepreneurs the mental freedom to explore their ideas. As the initiator of the KDU Entrepreneurship Club, I am proud of our exceptional executive committee, which independently planned and executed the event. Their ability to conceive, organize, and successfully deliver the event underscores the importance of allowing students the freedom to lead and innovate.

“Cookiefy” was a small but impactful initiative, demonstrating that creativity, when nurtured, can flourish even in the simplest of activities.

KDU Young Entrepreneurs Exhibition 2024

The KDU Young Entrepreneurs Exhibition took place for the 9th consecutive year on April 2nd, 2024, at the FGS building from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. This year marked a significant milestone as the exhibition opened its doors to all faculties for the first time, featuring two categories for participation.

In the Internal Category (Department Level), students from Intake 40 in Logistics Management and Management & Technical Sciences were assigned a group task to develop innovative business ideas with a focus on minimizing environmental impact. These ideas were presented as business organizations and evaluated by a distinguished judging panel comprising industry representatives.

In the External Category (Inter-faculty Level), the exhibition was extended to students from other faculties for the first time. Proposals were invited from these faculties, and special Zoom sessions were conducted to guide submission procedures and provide relevant information.

A total of twelve groups representing all undergraduates of BSc in Logistics Management and the BSc in Management and Technical Sciences Degree Programs of Intake 40 of the Faculty of Management, Social Sciences, and Humanities participated, alongside five groups representing the Open Individual category and nine groups under the Open Group category. Dr. Kalpana Ambepitiya, the lecturer in charge, provided instructions to the participants.

The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Rear Admiral HGU Dammika Kumara VSV, USP, psc, MMaritimePol, BSc (DS), Vice Chancellor of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, as the Chief Guest. Retired Major General DCA Wickramasinghe USP USACGSC, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Defence and Administration); Prof. KAS Dhammika, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic); and Dr. Lankshika Liyanage, Dean of the Faculty of Management, Social Sciences, and Humanities, were the Guests of Honor.

The panel of judges included Dr. Angelo Karunarathne, Lead Tech Development and Strategic Operations at Softmatter by MAS Holdings, Mr Lahiru Gunarathne, Assistant Manager – Talent Attraction, MAS Capital (Private) Limited, Dilanka Sanjaya, Managing Director of FONIX Software Solutions, and Dinusha Rajarathna, CEO of SABAH Association. They were tasked with selecting the best business ideas from the exhibition.

The exhibition was filled with very creative and innovative business ideas from the students.  The event took place in three main categories; Open Category (Individual), Open Category(Group), and Internal Category. The first place in the exhibition under “Open Category-Individual” was awarded to the ‘Crochet Corner’. The second place was achieved by the ‘Daily Planner Concept’. The third place was awarded to the team ‘Ever Eco’. The first place in the exhibition under “Open Category-Group” was awarded to the team “Hi Mama” and the second place was awarded to the team “Mindsolve” while the third place in this category was secured by the team “Renewables”. The first place in the exhibition under the “Internal Category” was awarded to team “Road Runner,” while second place was awarded to team “Aqua Leaf”, and third place to team “Repoly”. The exhibition was a remarkable opportunity for young undergraduates to develop their entrepreneurial skills.

Webinar on Fostering Innovative Career Thinking by Mr. Raza Abbas

The Career Guidance Unit of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University invited Mr. Raza Abbas, the Head of Shahjehan Syed Karim Incubation Centre at the Institute of Business Management and the focal point of the UNESCO Entrepreneurship Education Network – Pakistan National Chapter, to conduct a career guidance webinar themed “Fostering Innovative Career Thinking” on 5th September 2024. The highlights of the webinar are as follows.

In the webinar, Mr Abbas emphasizes the critical role of cultivating hope as a foundational element in career thinking. He began the presentation with an icebreaker activity that encouraged participants to share their thoughts on hope and how they can develop an internal hope reservoir, followed by inspirational quotes from notable Hope Scientists profiled in the global bestseller: The World Book of Hope.

These quotes underscore the importance of maintaining hope in uncertain times, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of career planning. The concept of igniting students’ career thinking through a structured approach that involves self-awareness, management skills, and educational planning. This process is designed to guide students in exploring their career options, setting achievable goals, and taking concrete steps toward realizing their career aspirations. The framework encourages students to reflect on questions such as “Who am I?”, “Where am I going?”, and “How do I get there?”, providing a comprehensive roadmap for career development.

The presentation also addresses the differing perspectives of parents and students regarding career choices. While parents often prioritize traditional career fields that offer job security, students are increasingly interested in fields that promise rapid growth and opportunities in emerging sectors, including entrepreneurship. This discussion highlights the tension between these perspectives and the importance of finding a balance that aligns with individual interests and abilities and promoting an enlightened dialogue with parents led by career practitioners.

Furthermore, the initiatives discussed in the presentation are closely aligned with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in promoting quality education (Goal 4), decent work and economic growth (Goal 8), reducing inequalities (Goal 10), and fostering peace and justice (Goal 16). He encouraged participants to reflect on 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals and select the SDG goals that are aligned towards their career aspirations

The session also highlights the global recognition of these innovative practices, noting their publication in OECD materials and selection for key UN and UNESCO initiatives.