The Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, located in Mihintale, was established on 07th November 1995, under section 21 of the University Act No.16 of 1978. The primary goal was to establish a center of excellence in higher education, research, and the dissemination of knowledge. The university aims to produce high-quality, innovative intellectuals with creativity and discipline, develop the competencies of staff, create a conducive environment for teaching, learning, and research, and promote co-existence with mutual respect and ethical behavior. At present, the university consists of six faculties: the Faculty of Agriculture, the Faculty of Applied Sciences, the Faculty of Management Studies, the Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, and the Faculty of Technology.
The Faculty of Management Studies was established with the inception of the university in 1995, with the mission “To produce high quality, innovative Intellectuals with creativity and discipline, develop the competencies and dedication of staff, create a conducive environment for teaching, learning, research, and dissemination of knowledge and promote co-existence with mutual respect and ethical behavior.” The Faculty of Management Studies (FMS) is one of the six faculties which operates as one of the ‘Centre of Excellence’ in management studies. It has a population of around 2500 students following undergraduate studies and a young but energetic team of about 70 members of the academic staff. The faculty offers educational programs both at undergraduate and postgraduate levels; they include Bachelor’s degrees, postgraduate diplomas, postgraduate degrees, and doctoral degrees offered under different sub-disciplines of management. The faculty consists of six academic departments.
We are delighted to announce the fourth International Research Symposium on Management (IRSM), scheduled for 27th November 2025 under the compelling theme “Intelligent Enterprises: Merging Technology, Talent, and Transformation.” In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and evolving workforce expectations, enterprises must move beyond traditional business models and embrace intelligence-driven strategies. The concept of an Intelligent Enterprise refers to an organization that effectively integrates cutting-edge technologies, human capital, and strategic transformation to drive innovation, agility, and sustainable value creation. This year's theme highlights the integration of three critical dimensions technology, talent, and transformation as the foundation of intelligent enterprises. It underscores the role of advanced technologies such as AI, data analytics, automation, and digital platforms in driving real-time decision-making and efficiency; the importance of skilled and adaptable human capital in building future-ready organizations; and the need for transformative approaches to business models, leadership, and culture to succeed in the evolving digital economy. By merging these dimensions, intelligent enterprises are capable of enhancing customer experiences, optimizing resources, fostering innovation, and navigating complex global challenges. IRSM 2025 aims to provide a dynamic platform for researchers, scholars, and practitioners to share their insights, empirical findings, and practical experiences related to building and managing intelligent enterprises. The symposium welcomes abstract submissions from a wide range of disciplines, including strategic management, human resource management, information systems, digital transformation, marketing, finance, innovation management, and entrepreneurship.
The third IRSM was held on 28th November 2024 under the theme “Strengthening Management Ecosystems for Sustainable Futures.” The symposium emphasized the importance of building adaptive, collaborative, and resilient management ecosystems by aligning internal structures, leadership, human resources, and stakeholder relationships to drive innovation, strategic agility, and sustainable value creation in a dynamic business environment. IRSM 2024 provided a platform for researchers, scholars, and practitioners to share their insights, best practices, and research findings across a wide range of management disciplines. Key tracks included Accounting, Finance, Human Resource Management, Marketing & Supply Chain Management, Information Systems, Economics and Entrepreneurship, among others. The symposium was conducted in a hybrid format and featured a Business Forum, offering additional opportunities for dialogue and collaboration. The Keynote speakers were Prof. Chatura Ranaweera from Lazaridis, School of Business & Economics, Wierid Laurier University, Canada, and Prof. Rangika Umesh Halwatura from Department of Civil Engineering, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka.
The second IRSM was held under the theme "From Resilience to Resistance: The Role of Digital Transformation in Business Sustainability." This symposium recognized the need for businesses to adapt to the rapidly changing world by building resilience and moving beyond it towards resistance by leveraging digital transformation for sustainable growth and success. The IRSM 2023 provided a platform for researchers, scholars, and practitioners to share their insights, best practices, and research findings on business resilience, resistance, and digital transformation. The keynote speakers were Prof. Dr. Christian M. Ringle from Hamburg University of Technology, Germany; Prof. Mohammad Nurunnabi from Prince Sultan University, Saudi Arabia; and Dr. A.D. Nuwan Gunarathne from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka.
As a remarkable milestone in the
journey of the Faculty of Management Studies in the Rajarata University of Sri
Lanka, the first International Research Symposium on Management (IRSM 2022) is
organized to be held on 06th October 2022 on the theme of “The BANI world:
Co-creating the business resilience towards the new normal and beyond” as a
hybrid event by adhering to strict healthcare guidelines during COVID-19
pandemic. IRSM 2022 is an annual event initiated to share research findings, novel
concepts, and disseminate knowledge of young researchers in collaboration with
diverse scholars and practitioners.
Extended abstracts invited from researchers across different management disciplines.
This Symposium provided an ideal opportunity to highlight the research
capability and potential of researchers, fostering collaboration between
industry and academia in the 21st Century.
Download the IRSM2022
Proceedings
The 4th National Symposium on Management, held on June 10, 2021, focused on the theme “The New Normal: Building Resilience to Keep Businesses Moving.” This event brought together leading academics, industry experts, and practitioners to explore strategies for sustaining business operations and fostering resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges. The symposium featured keynote addresses by esteemed speakers Prof. Bandara Wanninayake and Dr. Jenny Cave, who shared their insights on navigating the complexities of the current business environment. Under the leadership of Symposium Chair Prof. W.P. Wijewardene, Co-chair Dr. D.M.C. Dassanayake, and Secretary Dr. JDT Madushanka, the event provided a dynamic platform for presenting cutting-edge research and innovative practices. A total of 155 abstracts were presented, highlighting the breadth and depth of research in the field of management. Participants had the opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives, fostering rich discussions and collaborative opportunities. The symposium underscored the importance of adaptability and strategic thinking in ensuring business continuity and success in the new normal.
The 3rd National Symposium on Management, held on August 20, 2020, centered around the theme “Wisdom for Sustainability: Youth Engagement through Research and Innovation.” This symposium aimed to inspire and empower young researchers to contribute to sustainable development through innovative research and active engagement. The event featured a keynote address by the distinguished Prof. Arosha S. Adikaram, who provided valuable insights into the role of youth in driving sustainable practices and innovation. Under the guidance of Symposium Chair Prof. W.P. Wijewardene, Co-chair Dr. (Ms.) C.M.Y.S.S. Bandera, and Secretary Dr. K.V. Aruna Shantha, the symposium facilitated a vibrant exchange of ideas and knowledge. A total of 127 abstracts were presented, showcasing a wide array of research topics and innovative approaches in the field of management. The symposium served as a crucial platform for young researchers to share their findings, network with peers, and engage with experienced scholars and industry experts. This event highlighted the critical importance of youth involvement in achieving sustainable futures and fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation
The symposium held on September 7, 2018, under the theme “Inspiring Research for Knowledge Creation in Management” was a pivotal event aimed at fostering innovation and scholarly exploration in the field of management. The distinguished keynote speaker, Prof. (Mrs) R. Lalitha S. Fernando, delivered an enlightening address, inspiring participants to embark on rigorous research endeavors that contribute to the creation of new knowledge in management practices. Led by Symposium Chair Prof. K.G.A. Udayakumara and Co-chair Dr. J. Krishanthi Mallika, with the invaluable support of Secretary Mr. T.K.G. Sameera, the symposium provided a collaborative platform for presenting and discussing 68 abstracts that showcased diverse perspectives and insights across various management disciplines. Participants engaged in lively discussions, exchanging ideas and forging new connections that are vital for advancing research and fostering academic growth. The event underscored the importance of continuous learning and innovation in driving excellence in management studies. The symposium not only highlighted current research trends but also laid the foundation for future collaborations and advancements in the field, reflecting a commitment to excellence and knowledge creation in management.
Date: 2nd June 2017
Theme: “Exploring Business Insights”.
Keynote Speaker: Prof. Ananda J. Patabendige
Symposium Chair: Prof. KGA Udayakumara,
Co-chair: Dr. HMBP Ranaweera
Secretary: Dr. (Mrs.) CT Gamage
No. of Abstracts Presented: 30 published
Chairs and Coordinators of IRSM 2025 Organizing Committee
IRSM is inviting for abstract submissions based on original research for IRSM 2025. Authors are expected to submit an abstract of their research study accordance to the given format.
Submit now