University of Colombo Explores Strategic Partnership with TRACE – Sri Lanka to Advance Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Strengthening university-industry collaboration, the University of Colombo welcomed Mr Heminda Jayaweera, Executive Director of TRACE – Sri Lanka, for a strategic meeting with Vice-Chancellor Professor Indika Mahesh Karunathilake on 14 July 2026 at the College House. As the University of Colombo accelerates its efforts to promote entrepreneurship and foster a vibrant startup culture among its students through the newly established Innovation & Startup Incubator, the meeting created opportunities to strengthen collaboration with TRACE – Sri Lanka. Recognised as one of Sri Lanka’s most successful startup ecosystems, TRACE – Sri Lanka’s expertise and support are expected to play a pivotal role in advancing the University’s startup and innovation initiatives.
Representing the University of Colombo were Dr Asanka P. Sayakkara, Director of the Innovation & Startup Incubator, and Ms Shalika Ariyarathne, Senior Assistant Registrar (Academic and Publications). Representing TRACE – Sri Lanka were Ms Thihara Mallikarachchi, Associate Manager; Mr Eresh Chathuranga, Senior Manager (Operations); Mr Navodya Wickramasinghe, Executive (Innovation Ecosystem Development); and Mr Gamitha Chiranga, Digital Marketing Coordinator. The meeting marked an important step towards establishing a strategic partnership to strengthen innovation, entrepreneurship, and the startup ecosystem at the University of Colombo.