Marking a significant leap in academia-industry collaboration, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Department of Industrial Management, University of Kelaniya and Code Terriers (Pvt) Ltd on the 9th of April 2025 at the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, University of Kelaniya.

The MoU was signed on behalf of the University of Kelaniya, by Senior Professor Nilanthi De Silva, Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, and Mr. K. K. K. Dharmathilake, Registrar of the university. Representing Code Terriers (Pvt) Ltd, Ms. K. P. Muditha Mihirani Perera, Director, signed the agreement. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Professor Janaka Wijayanayake, Head of the Department of Industrial Management; Dr. Chathura Rajapakse, Senior Lecturer at the Department; and Mr. Sanjeewa Bitar, Director of Code Terriers (Pvt) Ltd.

This MoU formalized a partnership to establish a cutting-edge research facility, the AI and Salesforce Lab, within the Department of Industrial Management. The lab was officially opened on the same day, celebrating the beginning of a collaborative journey towards innovation, research, and technological advancement.

The AI and Salesforce Lab was inaugurated at the Department of Industrial Management, University of Kelaniya, in the presence of several dignitaries including Senior Professor Nilanthi De Silva, Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya; Senior Professor Sudath Kalingamudali, Dean of the Faculty of Science; Mr. K. K. K. Dharmathilake, Registrar of the University of Kelaniya; Professor Janaka Wijayanayake, Head of the Department of Industrial Management; Ms. K. P. Muditha Mihirani Perera, Director of Code Terriers (Pvt) Ltd; and Mr. Sanjeewa Bitar, Director of Code Terriers (Pvt) Ltd. Designed as a dynamic space for collaborative research, this facility is expected to serve as a hub for students, academics, and industry professionals to engage in projects in Artificial Intelligence, Enterprise Systems, and other emerging technologies.

The establishment of this lab is the first step in a broader vision of fostering innovation, skill development, and professional growth. The Department of Industrial Management, a pioneer in IT education in Sri Lanka since the early 1990s, brings a wealth of academic expertise to the table, while Code Terriers (Pvt) Ltd contributes its strong industry know-how in Salesforce solutions, Dynamics 365, and advanced AI technologies.

The partnership aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry by promoting joint research projects, enabling knowledge exchange, and supporting the career development of students. Internships and real-world exposure will be prioritized for undergraduates and postgraduates of the Department, thereby offering them early immersion in professional settings. The collaboration also includes organizing seminars, guest lectures, and workshops designed to benefit both students and faculty, while providing Code Terriers access to a vibrant academic community and infrastructure. This gesture reflects the company’s long-term investment in academic excellence and talent development.

Ultimately, this alliance reflects a forward-thinking approach to collaboration between academia and industry. It underscores the shared responsibility of educational institutions and private enterprises to build a knowledge-based economy in Sri Lanka; one driven by innovation, integrity, and meaningful partnerships.