SLASSCOM ignites future tech talent in North Central province

The SLASSCOM team at the IT/BPM exploration day in the North Central Province  

Courtesy call on the Rajarata University of Sri Lanka Vice Chancellor Prof. Bandula Jayathilake during the IT and BPM Exploration Day North Central Province by SLASSCOM Chairperson Shehani Seneviratne and SLASSCOM team

Continuing its long-standing commitment to nurturing future-ready talent, the SLASSCOM successfully hosted its latest Capacity Forum – IT and BPM Exploration Day at the Rajarata University of Sri Lanka on 17 March 2026, bringing together students, educators, and aspiring professionals from across the North Central Province.

The initiative builds on the legacy of SLASSCOM’s flagship IT and BPM Weeks program, launched in 2014, which has consistently driven regional engagement and industry awareness across Sri Lanka. With a strong focus on inspiring the next generation, the Exploration Day aimed to provide participants with valuable exposure to the rapidly evolving IT and Business Process Management (BPM) industry, while fostering stronger connections between academia and industry.

The event saw an impressive turnout, engaging over 1,500 participants across multiple segments. This included participation of over 30 schools, 454 junior school students (Grades 6–8), 420 senior school students (Grades 10–13), 166 participants in the dedicated “STEM for Her” session aimed at encouraging female participation in technology, and 500 undergraduates. In addition, 50 academic staff members took part in focused knowledge-sharing sessions designed to strengthen curriculum relevance and industry alignment.

A key highlight of the day was the hands-on career exposure facilitated through 50 mock interviews conducted by an expert team from 99x, providing students with practical insights into recruitment processes and the expectations of today’s tech industry. Interactive sessions throughout the day explored emerging career pathways, industry trends, and the critical skills required to succeed in the digital economy.

The initiative not only created awareness about diverse career opportunities within the IT and BPM sector but also encouraged innovation and entrepreneurship among young participants, reinforcing the importance of future-ready skills in a competitive global landscape.

SLASSCO Chairperson Shehani Seneviratne said: “The IT and BPM Exploration Day at the University of Rajarata is a testament to SLASSCOM’s ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent across Sri Lanka. By engaging students, educators, and aspiring professionals with hands-on learning, career guidance, and insights into the evolving IT and BPM industry, we aim to inspire meaningful career pathways and strengthen the link between academia and industry. Events like these are vital in preparing our youth for the opportunities of tomorrow and fostering innovation, diversity, and growth within the sector.”

The event was supported by The Royal Norwegian Embassy, with the collaboration of the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education, hosted by Rajarata University of Sri Lanka and with the Career Guidance partnership of 99x for this event. The Exploration Day further strengthened industry-academia collaboration while advancing SLASSCOM’s mission of positioning Sri Lanka as a leading global hub for IT and BPM talent.

As SLASSCOM continues its regional outreach journey, initiatives like the IT and BPM Exploration Day play a crucial role in shaping a future workforce that is skilled, innovative, and ready to meet the demands of an increasingly digital world.