University of Wales in Sri Lanka MBA Alumni launches New Chapter

The first Sri Lanka Chapter of the MBA society of the University of Wales was officially launched recently by IIHE, the only validated centre for the University of Wales MBA in Sri Lanka. The event was held at the Kingsbury Hotel followed by a ‘Networking Night’ titled ‘Encoro’.

More than 100 MBA graduates from the University of Wales who live and work in Sri Lanka will now have a society to help them connect with one another and to enjoy opportunities that will bring together graduates from various disciplines across different industries, to openly share experiences and perspectives. 

Sri Lanka Chapter President Nalinda Jayalath in his speech outlined that the vision of the society was to build a platform of professionals for networking, and to support in building valuable life-long business contacts and relationships, lasting connections and new opportunities and in developing strategic thinking, innovative and entrepreneurial skills for their stakeholders. “Our focus is on helping graduates access a pool of likeminded professionals to maintain important business and personal relationships and support each other with new possibilities and opportunities and to have a complimentary effect in the growth, development and promotion of the MBA of the University of Wales in the country.”

The keynote address was delivered by Chevron Lubricants CEO and Managing Director Dr. Kishu Gomes, the Chief Guest at the occasion, who with his exceptional ability to deliver an in depth overview of a subject in a thought provoking manner emphasised on how Sri Lankan professionals can successfully compete in the global arena. He cited examples from his own experience and stressed on the importance of applying, creating and delivering value in all aspects of work.

This was followed by an address by Dr. Gehan Dhameeth, the Assistant Professor of Business and Chair of the Business Program at Wells College, Aurora, New York who spoke on the theme titled ‘The importance of a scholar’s contribution towards a fast growing economy in Sri Lanka in the new era’.

IIHE CEO/Academic Director Dr. Thilak Weerakoon commended the society members and said that they will be a valuable resource in playing an important role as ambassadors of the institute to uplift its image and reputation amongst both social and professional networks in the country. He also spoke about the ‘Evolution of the MBA’ and touched upon the changes that have taken place over the years in terms of the course content and delivery.

Following the official launch, the society aims to create maximum visibility by organising networking and social events, forums, industry insights through panel discussions and seminars, to name a few. The next step of the society is to establish the Sri Lankan alumni of University of Wales which will comprise many successful corporate leaders. Plans are also in the pipeline to launch an official University of Wales MBA Membership Card offering discounts and offers exclusive to card holders.