The Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce (FMSC) at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura (USJ) successfully hosted the 21st International Conference on Business Management (ICBM) 2025 under the theme “Tech Titans and Turmoil: Leveraging Disruptive Technologies for Sustainable Business Transformation.” The conference, held annually since 1999, provided a platform for academics and industry professionals to engage in discussions on emerging business challenges and opportunities.
Pre-Conference Workshops – February 17, 2025
The Pre-Conference Workshops were conducted at Port City Colombo, focusing on contemporary business and economic issues with an emphasis on the Sri Lankan context. The event featured Mr. Peter D’Almeida as a session speaker and was attended by Prof. Dushan Jayawickrama, Dean of the Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce, alongside academic staff and undergraduate students. Participants included researchers, industry professionals, and corporate executives who engaged in discussions on disruptive technologies, economic recovery strategies, and innovative business practices.
Undergraduate Research Day – February 18, 2025
The Undergraduate Research Day of ICBM 2025 served as a platform for undergraduate students to present their research findings. The keynote session was delivered by Senior Prof. Mangala Fonseka, Retired Senior Professor and KPMG Endowed Professor in the Department of Accounting, under the theme “Undergraduate Research: What’s Next?” The event was attended by faculty members, students, and industry professionals, facilitating knowledge exchange on business and management research. Participants included undergraduate researchers, academic mentors, and business leaders interested in student-driven research initiatives.
Main Conference – February 19, 2025
The Main Conference took place at the Senate Board Room, USJ, featuring keynote addresses by Prof. Robert Faff and guest speaker Mr. Sundar Radhakrishnan. The conference included ten specialized tracks with a rigorous double-blind review process. Distinguished attendees included Vice Chancellor Senior Prof. Pathmalal M. Manage, Dean Prof. Dushan Jayawickrama, academic staff, and undergraduates. Participants consisted of local and international scholars, research presenters, business executives, and policymakers discussing sustainable business transformation through disruptive technologies.
Business Forum & Case Study Book Launch – February 21, 2025
The Business Forum and Case Study Book Launch were held at Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, attracting industry leaders, policymakers, and academics. The forum featured expert panels discussing the Port City Colombo Economic Model, Sri Lanka’s Economic Recovery Strategies, and the Adoption of Disruptive Technologies in Business. Over 250 professionals attended the event, which was organized in collaboration with the International Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka. Participants included Senior Professor Sampath Amaratunga, Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC); Senior Professor Pathmalal M. Manage, Vice Chancellor of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura; Professor Dushan Jayawickrama, Dean of the Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce, along with faculty members, undergraduates, and professionals from both the public and private sectors. The Case Study Book, comprising ten case studies on economic and technological transformations in Sri Lanka, was also launched, offering strategic insights for businesses and policymakers.
Other Related Events
On February 20, 2025, the Postgraduate Institute of Management (PIM) held its Annual Research Conference (PIMARC). Additionally, the HDR Pitching Competition took place on February 21, 2025, providing a platform for doctoral candidates to present their research proposals.
The 21st ICBM 2025 successfully brought together academics, researchers, and industry professionals, fostering discussions on leveraging technology for sustainable business practices and economic resilience.
