In a significant step towards fulfilling a key budget promise, a Sri Lankan delegation led by the State Minister of Technology, Kanaka Herath, visited the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) on February 5th, 2024. Accompanied by prominent academics and industry leaders, the delegation aimed to solidify plans for establishing an IIT Madras branch campus in Sri Lanka.
The delegation included esteemed figures like Professor Subash Jayasinghe (Dean of the Faculty of Technology, University of Ruhuna), Professor Ajith De Alwis (Faculty of Engineering, University of Moratuwa), Professor B.G.L.T. Samaranayake (Head of Electrical and Electronic Department, University of Peradeniya), Dr. K. Piranaharan (Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, University of Jaffna), and Dr. Romesh Ranawana (Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Artificial Intelligence). Their valuable insights and expertise contributed significantly to the discussions.
During their visit, the delegation met with key figures at IIT Madras, including Director Prof. Kamakoti and Dean of Global Engagement Prof. Raghunathan Rengaswamy. They also toured the Centre for Innovation to gain a firsthand understanding of the institute’s cutting-edge research and development facilities.
Detailed discussions with Prof. Rengaswamy focused on the future roadmap for the proposed branch campus, exploring potential academic collaborations and finalizing crucial details. Their visit to the IIT Madras campus and Research Park provided valuable insights into the institute’s infrastructure, research capabilities, and academic excellence.
This high-level visit marks a significant milestone in fulfilling the Sri Lankan President’s budget promise to establish an IIT Madras branch campus in Kandy. The collaboration holds immense potential to transform Sri Lanka’s technological landscape by empowering future generations with the knowledge and skills needed to drive national progress and prosperity.