SECRA Entrepreneur Support Program 2023, University of Peradeniya
SECRA Entrepreneur Support Program, a pivotal element of the “Strengthening University-Enterprise Collaboration (UEC) for Resilient Communities in Asia (SECRA) Project” co-founded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union, was held on August 19th, 2023, in the Seminar Room 1 at the Faculty of Engineering, University of Peradeniya. This remarkable event marked a day of insights, collaboration, and transformative discussions, aimed at advancing the realms of entrepreneurship and disaster resilience. The SECRA Entrepreneur Support Program brought together a diverse audience comprising students,
academics, and industry experts. The event was a testament to the power of collaboration between academia and industry, both of which play instrumental roles in driving innovation and fostering resilient
communities.
The heart of the event revolved around the project’s Work Packages 3 and 4: Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and Community of Practice. These
themes set the stage for vibrant discussions, shedding light on the profound impact collaboration between universities and enterprises can have on disaster resilience. Dr. Udaya Dissanayake, Dean, Faculty of Engineering
graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Speakers, including Prof. Ranjith Dissanayake, Senior Professor, University of Peradeniya, illuminated the journey from graduates to entrepreneurs, emphasising the vital role
that academia-industry collaboration plays in this process. Prof. Dharshana Yapa, Director of Business Linkage, Innovation, Incubation, and Technology
Transfer Office, University of Peradeniya shared insights on innovation within academic settings and the role of BLII-TTO. Mr. Heminda Jayaweera, Vice Chairperson of TRACE Sri Lanka, offered a compelling keynote on realworld entrepreneurship. And, Mr. Thushara Kamalrathne, Senior Lecturer, University of Peradeniya, brought a unique perspective from his role as a researcher in the area of sociology emphasising the significance of collective engagement in driving resilient communities forward.