🌟 Highlights from the Brain to Business Program at the University of Colombo! 🌟
The Brain to Business initiative, organized by NEDA, launched a dynamic three-day workshop series at the University of Colombo from July 29th to 31st, 2024. This collaborative effort with the Career Guidance Unit of the Faculty of Arts was designed to ignite entrepreneurial spirit among graduates.
The program kicked off with an inspiring welcome from Prof. D.P.L. M. Rathnasingha, Director of the Career Guidance Unit, who set an uplifting tone for the event. Mr. Sashika De Mel, Assistant Director of NEDA, outlined the program’s objectives, emphasizing the importance of nurturing entrepreneurship.
Mr. Lasantha Kariyapperuma, Chairman/Director General of NEDA, delivered a compelling inaugural address, underscoring the crucial role of entrepreneurial development in advancing economic progress.
Senior Prof. Lasantha Manawadu, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, further emphasized the program’s alignment with regional development goals and the essential role of entrepreneurship in community advancement.
A highlight of the event was the success story of Brain to Business 2023, shared by Mr. Thilshan Rajakaruna, Founder of Abaa Bathik. His narrative illustrated the profound impact of the program on aspiring entrepreneurs, showcasing the growth and opportunities it fosters.
The workshop conducted by Mr. D. B. Jayathilaka, Enterprise Development Officer, and Mr. Suren, Translator, with support from Enterprise Development Officers in the Colombo district.
The program concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Ms. Madushani Kaushalya from NEDA, who expressed gratitude to all participants, speakers, and organizers for their contributions to a highly successful event.
🌟 Exciting Highlights from Brain to Business 2024 at the University of Ruhuna! 🌟
The Brain to Business 2024 program was an inspiring event at the University of Ruhuna, with the inaugural session on August 31st and a workshop from August 5th to 7th. In collaboration with the Career Guidance Unit (CGU), the program aimed to empower educated youth to become entrepreneurs instead of job seekers.
The event began with a vibrant inauguration ceremony featuring key participants, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Senior Professor Saman Chandana Ediriwira from the University of Ruhuna; Mr. Ganesha Amarasingha, District Secretary from the District Secretariat Office, Matara; Prof. Thusitha Gunawardana, Director of CGU, UoR; and Mr. Dhanuka Liyanagamage, Director of NEDA.
Mr. Sashika De Mel, Assistant Director of NEDA, explained the program’s objectives and how to access financial grants while Mr. Dhanuka Liyanagamage, Director of NEDA, provided strategic guidance for potential entrepreneurs during the inaugural session
Attendees were inspired by success stories from 2023, including Mr. W.M.I. Madhuranga, founder of Madhuranga Grinding Mills, showcasing the program’s impact.
The workshop featured expert insights from resource personnel, Ms. A S P D Sudarshani, Ms. B G Dilrukshi, Ms. Nimali Senanayake, and Mr. K T A Anuradha. Assisting in the workshop were Ms. Hemamali Sandalatha and Ms. L N Manori, ensuring a smooth and enriching experience for all participants.
#BrainToBusiness2024 #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #UniversityOfRuhuna #YouthEmpowerment #NationalDevelopment #SME #CGU #NEDA
🌟 Highlights from the Brain to Business Program at the University of Kelaniya! 🌟
The NEDA and CGU of University of Kelaniya hosted an engaging and impactful Brain to Business program, aiming to inspire and equip graduates with entrepreneurial skills. The program began on August 5, 2024, and included a three-day workshop that continued until August 7, 2024. The event featured a series of insightful speeches, success stories, and networking opportunities.
The program began with a warm welcome speech by the Snr. Prof. Dilkushi Senaratne, Director of the Career Guidance Unit (CGU) at the University of Kelaniya, setting the tone for an inspiring day.
Mr. Sashika De Mel, Assistant Director of NEDA, explained the program’s objectives, emphasizing the importance of fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among graduates.
The success story of Brain in to business – 2023 was shared by K. Indika pushpakumara founder of Happy Craft, T.K.Dilhara founder of Diasy Pvt Ltd. , M. G. T . N. Chandrarathne founder of Twig Trove Plants, P.D.L.S.Gunawardena founder of Anarghaa Products and R.A.I.C. Ranathunga founder of Palwatta Spices, showcasing the transformative impact of the program on aspiring entrepreneurs. His story served as a testament to the opportunities and growth the initiative offers.
The inaugural session was conducted by the Mr. Lasantha Kariyapperuma, Chairman/Director General of NEDA, delivered an inspiring address, reinforcing the importance of entrepreneurial development in driving economic progress.
The event also featured a speech by Ms. A.A.D.C.N. Amarasingha, Kelaniya Divisional Secretary, who highlighted the program’s alignment with regional development goals and the vital role of entrepreneurship in community growth.
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Kelaniya, Snr. Prof. Nilanthi de Silva, delivered an insightful speech, underscoring the university’s commitment to nurturing innovative minds and supporting entrepreneurial endeavors.
The resource personnel included Ms. W. K. Senasinghe and Ms. W. A. D. S. P. Withanaarachchi, with assistance from Enterprise Development Officers (EDOs) in the Gampaha district.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr.Viraj Abhayasignhe from CGU/UoK, expressing gratitude to all participants, speakers, and organizers for their contributions to a successful event.
The Brain to Business 2024 programme, held at the University of Peradeniya from August 5th to 8th, was an inspiring convergence of minds, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among young Graduates. This initiative, a collaboration with the Career Guidance Unit (CGU) of the University, aimed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools and insights needed to transform ideas into thriving businesses.
The program kicked off with a vibrant inauguration ceremony, highlighted by a speech from Prof. Rohan Yapa, who underscored the pivotal role of young entrepreneurs in driving national development. His words set the tone for the event, inspiring attendees to harness their creativity and ambition for the betterment of society.
The inaugural session was led by Mr. Dhanuka Liyanagamage, Director of the National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA). Mr. Liyanagamage provided strategic guidance, outlining clear pathways for young entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses. His insights were invaluable for those looking to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape.
Ms. Madushani Kaushalya, an Enterprise Promotion Assistant (EPA) from NEDA, illuminated the significance of the Brain to Business program, detailing the process of obtaining financial grants.
Two notable success stories from the Brain to Business program in 2023 were shared by Mr. B. P. T. L. Wijerathne, founder of KIIDAD Public Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, and Mr. Salitha Karunarathne, founder of SKT Pure Comfort Wear. Their journeys from grant recipients to successful business owners were both motivational and instructive, providing attendees with real-world examples of the program’s impact.
Ms. Yasini Rajapaksha, Regional Manager at the Central Bank of Sri Lanka’s Matale Office, emphasized the importance of supporting SMEs and young entrepreneurs. Her participation underscored the Central Bank’s commitment to fostering economic growth through entrepreneurship.
The CGU of the University of Peradeniya played a crucial role in orchestrating the event, working tirelessly to motivate and mobilize students to participate. Their ongoing collaboration with NEDA has been instrumental in nurturing a culture of entrepreneurship on campus.
The program’s success was also due to the efforts of Ms. T. M. N. Damayanthi, District Coordinator of Kandy, and Ms. D. G. C. Subarathna, District Coordinator of Matale, along with their dedicated team of Enterprise Development Officers (EDOs). These coordinators facilitated a comprehensive three-day entrepreneurship skill development workshop conducted by resource personnel from the Kandy District.
In conclusion, Ms. Harshika Kulasekara, an EPA from NEDA, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants, highlighting the collaborative spirit that made the event possible.
This initiative reflects a broader vision of empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs, fostering a dynamic ecosystem where ideas can flourish and contribute to the nation’s prosperity.
Youth Entrepreneurship Skill Development Programme at University of Vocational Technology
The Youth Entrepreneurship Skill Development Programme was launched on July 26, 2024, at the University of Vocational Technology (UoVT). This fantastic initiative, organized by the National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA) in collaboration with UoVT, with the aim of empowering educated youth to become entrepreneurs instead of job seekers.
The inauguration session saw the participation of key figures from UoVT including Professor C. Mahesh Edirisinghe – Vice Chancellor, Dr. L. W. S. Kularathne – Dean of the Faculty of Education, Dr. Jayalal Wettasinghe – Dean of the Faculty of Engineering Technology, Dr. U. A. S. K. Edirisinghe – Dean of the Faculty of Industrial Technology, Ms. T. K. Malwatta – Dean of the Faculty of Information & Communication Technology, Dr. Kasun Nandapala – Director of Administration, Accreditation and Quality Assurance (AAQA); Mr. Dharmasiri – Director General (Covering UP), Ms. Aruni Aluthge – Director of Finance, and Mr. Suraj Jayatilaka – Director of the Human Resources Development Centre (HRDC). Heads of departments and both academic and non-academic staff were also present. Representatives from NEDA included Mr. Dhanuka Liyanagamage – Director, Mr. Sahika De Mel – Assistant Director (EP), Ms. Oshani Bodhiwansa – Assistant Director of IT, Ms. Bhagya Nakandala – Enterprise Promotion Officer, Ms. Kasunika Gayani – Enterprise Promotion Officer of IT, Ms. Madushani Kaushalya – Enterprise Promotion Officer, Mr. Sasanka Weerarathna – Enterprise Promotion Officer, Ms. S. A. K. Priyadarshani – Enterprise Promotion Officer and also Mr. Thushantha Vithanage from Charana TV were participated.
Additionally, Mr. Deshaja Dewapriya – Founder of Yaralawa and a grant winner from the 2023 programme, shared his success story, providing great inspiration for the event.
This three-day entrepreneurial skill development and business plan workshop, held from July 26 to 28 at the university premises. The event featured an impressive lineup of resource personnel, including Mr. Dhanuka Liyanagamage, Director of NEDA, Mr. Sasanka Weerarathna, Trainer and Enterprise Promotion Officer, Ms. W. A. D. S. P. Withanaarachchi, Trainer and Enterprise Development Officer, Ms. S. A. K. Priyadarshani, Enterprise Development Officer, Ms. Bhagya Nakandala, Enterprise Promotion Officer, Ms. Madushani Kaushalya, Enterprise Promotion Officer, Ms. A. S. P. D. Sudarshani, Trainer and Enterprise Development Officer, and Ms. B. G. Dilrukshi, Trainer and Enterprise Development Officer.
The event was expertly coordinated by Mr. Prasanna Udayantha, Enterprise Development Officer at Maharagama DS.
The National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA) is implementing the Brain into Business National Programme, an ongoing initiative to foster entrepreneurship among educated youth in Sri Lanka. This program continues to encourage young, educated Sri Lankans to channel their knowledge and skills into creating and developing successful businesses, contributing to the country’s economic growth and innovation landscape.
As part of this initiative, NEDA, conducted the “Brain into Business programme 2024 – University of Moratuwa (UoM)” on April 27th and 28th at the university premises in collaboration with Career Guidance Unit (CGU), UOM. The event featured notable attendees including Prof. Jagath Mapatunage and Prof. Nile Perera from the University of Moratuwa, Ms. Anusha Ratnayake, Coordinator of the CGU., Ms. Anupama Avanti, Assistant Regional Secretary of Moratuwa Divisional Secretariat, Mr. Dhanuka Liyanagamage, Director, NEDA, and Sashika De Mel, Assistant Director, NEDA.
The workshop was conducted by the resource personnel, Mr. Dhanuka Liyanagamage, Director of NEDA, Mr. Jayashanta Chandrasena and Ms. Kanchana Priyadarshani, Enterprise Development Officers at NEDA. Mr. Thilshan from ABAA CLOTHING, who won the grant in 2023, shared his entrepreneurial experiences.
The programme was organised by Ms. Bhagya Nakandala and Ms. Madushani Kaushalya, Enterprise Promotion Officers at NEDA, along with Ms. Kanchana Priyadarshani, Moratuwa Enterprise Development Officer.
Through this national programme, NEDA aims to empower educated youth to create a strong entrepreneurial sector that will help transform Sri Lanka into an export-oriented manufacturing economy.
The National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA) launched, first “Brain into Business” three-day workshop of 2024 from 26th to 28th March at the University of Jaffna with the collaboration of Carrier Guidance Unit (CGU) of the University.
This initiative, aimed at fostering an entrepreneurial culture among educated youth and the event saw the active participation of esteemed personalities including the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sivakolundu Srisatkunarajah, the Dean of the Faculty of Science, Professor P. Ravirajan, the Director of the University CGU, Professor M. Siamalan, and the Jaffna District Secretariat Planning Director, E. Surendrathan. Also, present were the Director of the NEDA, Mr. Dhanuka Liyanagamage, and the CGU Coordinator, K. Gautaman, along with other government officials.
The workshop was conducted by the resource personnel, Mr. Dhanuka Liyanagamage, Director of NEDA and Mr. D.B. Jayathilaka, Enterprise Development Officer.
This workshop was expected to significantly bolster Sri Lanka’s entrepreneurial sector by nurturing a new generation of entrepreneurial youth.
2023
“Brain Into Business - 2023 - University of Wayamba”
The “Brain Into Business – Upadhidhari Vyavasayaka Udanaya 2023” initiative was launched with great success at the university, in collaboration with the Career Guidance Unit of the University of Wayamba.
The inauguration of the programme graced by the presence of Mr. Lasantha Kariyapperuma – Chairman/Director General of the National Enterprise Development Authority, Mr. D.M.A.K. Dissanayake – Divisional Secretary (Kuliapitiya West), Mr. Dhanuka Liyanagamage – Director (NEDA), Mr.Wasantha Senanayake – Deputy Director (NEDA) and other officials from the University.
Additionally, the three-day workshop conducted by Mr. L. H. Lamahewa – Kurunegala District Coordinating Officer, Training Consultant and Mr. Lalith Gamage – Enterprise Development Officer, Training Consultant.
The best step to create a developed future state is to nurture entrepreneurs among educated youth. The Brain into Business Programme was successfully concluded on September 25th, 26th, and 27th at Uva Wellassa University in collaboration with the university’s CGU.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by the presence of Badulla District Governor Mr. Prabhat Panduka Sri Abeywardena, Uva Wellassa University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Jayantha Lal Ratnasekara, Assistant Director of the NEDA Mr. Shashika De Mel, and other officials from the authority.
The three-day workshop was led by resource personnel, including Mr. Saminda Gamage, Mr. Gamini Jayalath, and Mr. Nalaka Rajapaksa, Enterprise Development Officers.
Additionally, the programme was coordinated by the Ms. T.V.C.M. Wasanthi, Enterprise Development Officers, Badulla District Secretariat.
"Brain Into Business – Rajarata University”
The “Brain into Business – 2023” program, conducted by NEDA in collaboration with the Career Guidance Unit of Rajarata University, was held from September 15th to 17th, 2023, at the university.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by Prof. Sanjeevani Ginigaddara, Vice-Chancellor of Rajarata University; Mr. Anuruddha Nayakbandara, Divisional Secretary of Mihintale; and Mr. Wasantha Senanayake, Deputy Director of NEDA.
The three-day workshop was conducted by Mr. L. H. Lamahewa, Kurunegala District Coordination Officer and Training Consultant, and Mr. Lalith Gamage, Enterprise Development Officer and Training Consultant.
"Brain Into Business – University of Ruhuna”
The National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA), in collaboration with the Career Guidance Unit (CGU) of the University of Ruhuna, successfully initiated the “Brain into Business Programme – 2023” workshop from June 21st to 23rd, 2023, at the university.
The inauguration of the event was attended by Mr. E. P. S. Chandana, Acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ruhuna; Mr. Lasantha Kariyapperuma, Chairman/Director General of NEDA; and Mr. Kasun S.K. Wallaheva, Additional District Secretary of Matara.
Mr. Jayashanta Chandrasena, an Enterprise Development Officer, conducted the workshop as the resource person.
"Brain Into Business – University of Moratuwa”
By opening the golden door of entrepreneurship to the educated young university community, the National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA) initiated the “Brain into Business 2023” program in collaboration with the Career Guidance Unit (CGU) of the University of Moratuwa on June 17th and 18th, 2023, at the university.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by Mr. Lasantha Kariyapperuma, Chairman/Director General of NEDA; Mrs. Ishanka Udawatta, Divisional Secretary of the Moratuwa Divisional Secretariat; and Prof. Kumari Gamage, Director of the CGU at the University of Moratuwa. A group of staff members from the National Enterprise Development Authority also participated in this event.
The two-day workshop was led by resource person, Mr. Jayashanta Kumara, Enterprise Development Officer.
The “Upadidari Vivasaya Udanaya” Program – Brain into Business Program – University of Sri Jayawardenapura edition was successfully conducted at the university premises from May 19th to May 21st, 2023. This program was organized by the National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA) in collaboration with the university’s Startup Hub.
The program’s inauguration ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of Mr. Lasantha Kariyapperuma, Chairman/Director General of NEDA, along with other NEDA staff members. Prof. Upul Subasinghe, Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Lasith Gunawardena, Co-Chair of IIVC, Prof. Hiran Amarasekara, Founder of Startup Hub, Dr. Chathurie Nupearchchi, Advisor of Startup Hub, and other respected lecturers and officials from Startup Hub also attended the event.
The resource panel for this program were Mr. D.B. Jayathilaka and Mr. Jayashantha Kumara. NEDA Colombo District Coordinator, Ms. Chathya Jayamanne, and NEDA Officer for Moratuwa Divisional Secretariat, Ms. Kanchana, immensely supported the program.
A session titled “Unlock Your Mind’s Potential and Unlock Your Entrepreneurial Success!” was conducted by Mr. Lasantha Kariyapperuma (Chairman NEDA), inspiring participants to tap into their creative potential. Mr. Dulanjana Vithanage, the founder of Jack Fruit Ceylon Ltd., also joined the program and shared his experiences as a young entrepreneur in the business field. Dulanjana had previously been awarded the Upadidari Vyasaya Udanaya by NEDA in 2021.
At the end of the three-day workshop series, NEDA successfully guided 32 undergraduates to embark on their entrepreneurial journey and start their own businesses. The program aimed to foster entrepreneurship and equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to transform their ideas into successful ventures.
Since 2004, NEDA has been collaborating with the Career Guidance Units (CGU) of the state Universities of Sri Lanka to implement the “Brain into Business” Programme with the objective of encouraging educated youth to become entrepreneurs as opposed to being job seekers. The programme offered the students a variety of opportunities to acquire knowledge on entrepreneurship, develop their talents, and receive mentoring and guidance from experienced entrepreneurs. Following the training, the NEDA awarded the selected students a grant based on the merits of their Business Proposals which were evaluated by an experienced panel of judges. This programme has emerged as one of the hallmark projects of NEDA which has drawn numerous compliments and accolades.
“Brain Into Business – Upadhidhari Vyavsayaka Udanaya 2023 – Phase 1” Grant Awarding ceremony took place on December 14, 2023, at the Ministry of Industries Auditorium. Fourteen university students were honoured with grants during the event. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Hon. Dr. Ramesh Pathirana, Minister of Industries and Health; Mr. Prasanna Ranaweera, State Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development; Mrs. Tilaka Jayasundara, Secretary to the Ministry of Industries; Mr. Lasantha Kariyapperuma, Chairman/Director General of the National Enterprise Development Authority, as well as distinguished guests, university lecturers, government officials, and the beneficiary university students.
Grant Awarding Ceremony Phase II - 2023
The “Brain Into Business – Upadhidhari Vyavasayaka Udanaya” 2023 – Grant Awarding Ceremony Phase II was held on January 29, 2024, at BMICH (Cinema Lounge). In this second phase, 14 graduates from the University of Rajarata, University of Sabaragamuwa, University of Ruhuna, University of Peradeniya, and the University of North West were awarded grants.
The ceremony was honored by the presence of Hon. Dr. Ramesh Pathirana, Minister of Industries and Health; Mr. Prasanna Ranaweera, State Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development; Mrs. Tilaka Jayasundara, Secretary to the Ministry of Industries; Mr. Lasantha Kariyapperuma, Chairman/Director General of the National Enterprise Development Authority, along with distinguished guests, university lecturers, government officials, and the beneficiary university students.
