Senior Professor
P.B.R. Dissanayake
Ph.D., Ehime University, Japan
Senior Professor in Civil Engineering University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
President-Elect
Institution of Engineers, Sri Lanka
Chairman
Green Building Council of Sri Lanka
Founder of gap HQ
Innovation for Sustainable Cities and Societies
The urbanization reality has brought to light numerous challenges demanding a shift towards sustainability, with approximately 3 million people migrating to cities every week, and by 2050, 68% of the global population will reside in urban areas. Greening our urban landscapes is essential, but true sustainability extends beyond aesthetics. Neglecting this integral aspect can result in negative externalities, including increased energy consumption, contributing to climate change. In pursuit of a sustainable society, the happiness and well-being of citizens must be central to our efforts, much like nature’s balance. Sustainable cities are those that combine environmental resilience with social well-being. However, theory alone will not suffice; innovation is the catalyst for transformation. since the island is grappling with economic crises and imbalanced trade. Contribution to a circular economy can be done by adopting principles of green innovation and entrepreneurship. In conclusion, the imperative for innovation in achieving sustainability for cities and societies is clear. By harnessing nature’s wisdom and fostering a culture of innovation, we can pave the way for a greener, happier, and more equitable future.
Prof. Ranjith Dissanayake is a Senior Professor in Civil Engineering at the University of Peradeniya. He is a Fulbright Scholar in the USA, an Endeavour Fellow in Australia, and JASSO Research Fellow in Japan. He was awarded the Young Scientist Award in 2007 for Excellence in Scientific Research by the National Science and Technology Commission (NASTEC) of Sri Lanka. He received the Overseas Prize of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) in the UK in 2007 and the Australia Alumni Excellence Award in 2012. He is the President-Elect of the Institution of Engineers, Sri Lanka (IESL), the Chairman of the Green Building Council of Sri Lanka (GBCSL), and a Vice President of the Chamber of Construction Industry (CCI). He is also the former Secretary to the State Ministry of Rural Roads and the State Ministry of Urban Development. He is the founder of gap HQ, the base of operation of several companies, including Lego International (Pvt.) Ltd, ICB (Pvt.) Ltd, Lanka AAC (Pvt) Ltd, GAP (Pvt) Ltd, and Wrangler Solutions (Pvt) Ltd. He is co-chairing the 14th International Conference on Sustainable Built Environment at Kandy (https://www.kandyconference.org/), and the 1st International Conference on University-industry Collaborations for Sustainable Development at Colombo (https://colomboconference.org).
Dr. Ajantha S. Atukorale
Ph.D., University of Queensland, Australia
Director, University of Colombo School of Computing (UCSC)
President, Computer Society of Sri Lanka (CSSL)
Ajantha Atukorale received his B.Sc. Degree with first-class honours in Computer Science from the University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, in 1995. He obtained his Ph.D. degree in 2002 from the University of Queensland, Australia, in Neural Pattern Recognition. Currently, Dr. Atukorale is the Director at the University of Colombo School of Computing (UCSC) and conducts lectures for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
His research interests include Neural Networks, Pattern Recognition, Machine Learning, Data Analytics, Computer Networks, and Virtualization. He has been a Council member of the Computer Society of Sri Lanka (CSSL) since 2013/2014 and is currently the President of the CSSL.
For more information about the speaker can be found at https://ucsc.cmb.ac.lk/profile/aja/
Mr.
Kasun Jayamaha
B.Sc. (Hons) in Information Technology (SLIIT)
MBA (PIM- University of Sri Jayewardenepura)
Head of IT, Unilever Sri Lanka
Enhancing Future Resilience Through Digital Transformation
Digital transformation empowers organizations to be more agile, data-driven, and customer-focused, laying the foundation for a resilient future. The ability to adapt to changing circumstances, leverage technology for strategic advantages, and prioritize innovation positions businesses and societies to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.
Kasun Jayamaha holds a BSc Special Honors Degree in Information Technology from SLIIT, specializing in computer systems and networking, and an MBA from PIM-University of Sri Jayewardenepura. With over 15 years of industry experience, Kasun has worked with global and local industry leaders, shaping a journey from an IT assistant at Lion Brewery Ceylon PLC in 2007 to his current role as the Head of IT at Unilever Sri Lanka.
Throughout his career, Kasun has undertaken transformative projects, including Greenfield ERP implementations that garnered recognition, winning the Best Run Award in 2013. His diverse roles, from managing IT applications for the world’s second-largest glove manufacturer to critical positions at Atlas Axillia (Pvt) Ltd under Hemas Group, reflect his adaptability and leadership. He was a member of the Techno 2007 1st prize-winning team and was recognized for his achievements in national and international child art competitions. As a technology enthusiast, Kasun brings a unique blend of expertise and passion to drive innovation and success in every endeavor.