March, 28, 2025
The corporate world is about to witness the arrival of a new wave of dynamic, well-prepared business professionals. The Department of Business Management, Faculty of Business Studies and Finance at Wayamba University of Sri Lanka recently hosted Exchange 2025—a transformative event designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry expectations. This initiative not only equipped final-year undergraduates with vital corporate insights but also solidified the university’s role in fostering industry-ready graduates.
Organized by third-year students and faculty members, Exchange 2025 was more than just an event—it was a launchpad for future business leaders. Designed to prepare final-year students for their six-month industrial training, the program emphasized corporate preparedness, networking, and personal development. This year, the Department of Business Management proudly sends 248 skilled and ambitious students into the workforce, ready to take on real-world challenges with confidence.
A highlight of the event was the Wisdom Hour Segment, where esteemed industry leaders shared their perspectives on corporate life, work ethics, personal branding, workplace competition, and entrepreneurial mindsets. The distinguished speakers included:
Additionally, Ms. Nimesha Silva, an accomplished alumna and Account Manager at WSO2, delivered an inspiring session on her career trajectory, offering undergraduates a real-world perspective on career progression and success.
Bridging academia and industry: Experts equip students for real-word challenges
Prof. S.K. Gamage, Dean of the Faculty of Business Studies and Finance, emphasized the faculty’s dedication to bridging the gap between academic learning and industry application. “Our vision is to continuously foster industry collaboration, ensuring our graduates are prepared to meet evolving market demands with confidence and competence.”
Dr. (Mrs.) W.D.N.S.M. Tennakoon, Head of the Department of Business Management, reinforced this sentiment, stating, “Our curriculum is designed to instill critical thinking, adaptability, and problem-solving skills, ensuring our graduates remain competitive in the corporate landscape.”
Mr. Manuja Ariyapperuma, Lecturer and Co-Chair of the event, underscored the significance of industry-academia synergies, noting, “The success of this event has paved the way for future partnerships, internships, and research collaborations that will further enrich our students’ learning experiences.”
For the students, Exchange 2025 was a pivotal moment of transition from academic learning to professional readiness. Final-year undergraduate Mr. Naveen Perera shared his enthusiasm: “Attending this event gave me an in-depth understanding of corporate expectations and enhanced my confidence as I prepare to embark on my career journey.”
With Exchange 2025, Wayamba University continues its tradition of excellence in business education, cultivating a workforce that is not only academically proficient but also industry-savvy. The transition from classroom to boardroom is no longer a distant dream—it’s a reality. Organizations, take note: these graduates are ready to make an impact.
Career insights for a brighter future: Undergraduates dive into career insights and expert guidance.
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