Department of Industrial Management, Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya
Inception in 1967 as one of the inaugural departments of the Faculty of Science. Bridging the gap between Management & Information Technology. Intention is to meet the dynamic and trending demands of corporations throughout the world. Privileged by a group of esteemed academics, and a diverse curriculum, the Department of Industrial Management has consistently been recognized for nurturing highly skilled and inventive individuals, earning a distinguished reputation in the industry. Offers two prestigious degrees which are indispensable in modern education and industry, B.Sc. (Hons.) in Management and Information Technology, and B.Sc. (Hons.) in Information Technology, acclaimed for producing graduates technologically up-to-date, skilful in knowledge application, innovative and flexible, and armed with soft skills and the agility required to excel in the modern corporate arena.
Industrial Management Science Students' Association
Industrial Management Science Students’ Association (IMSSA), the esteemed student body of the Department of Industrial Management, serves as a valuable platform for its undergraduates to actively cultivate and enhance their skills in leadership, effective communication, and collaborative teamwork. By offering abundant opportunities, IMSSA empowers students to make their initial impact in the corporate landscape, while fostering enduring connections within the industrial community. Annually organizes three impactful events, namely, hackX, the Inter-University Startup Challenge, hackX Jr., the Inter-School Hackathon and Exposition, the premier University Business Magazine, with the primary purpose of giving industry exposure to its students. These events serve as platforms to showcase the skills and talents of undergraduates and highlight the value they bring to the industry.
hackX
With the success of three consecutive hackathons and four exemplary Innovative Startup Challenges, we are now stepping forward into the eighth year of our success story as hackX 2023. With the theme of ‘Sustainable Innovation’, hackX 2023, the Innovative Startup Challenge will not only be limited to tech-based solutions but also be open to sustainable, eco-friendly ideas that will help ensure the existence of mankind. hackX 2023 is an exhilarating event that encompasses various phases, showcasing the brilliance of young minds in the world of innovation and technology. It begins with ‘ideaSprint’, an intra-departmental idea pitching competition.
The excitement amplifies during ‘ideaX’, the initial pitching event for inter-university contestants. As competition proceeds, the focus shifts to ‘designX’, a comprehensive startup guidance program. Finally, the climax of hackX 2023 arrives with the grand finals. This highly anticipated event showcases the culmination of months of hard work, dedication, and innovation. hackX is more than just a competition; it’s a melting pot of ingenious ideas, dynamic networking, and transformative experiences.
The event provides a unique space for young innovators to showcase their ideas, receive feedback, and delve into the intricacies of their projects. By encouraging participants to think critically, solve real-world problems, and embrace a spirit of entrepreneurship, hackX prepares the next generation of leaders to take on the challenges of an evolving world. One of hackX’s standout features is its ability to connect budding entrepreneurs with industry experts.
By bridging the gap between academia and industry, hackX creates an environment where participants can engage in meaningful discussions, gain insights from experienced professionals, and broaden their perspectives. This interaction is invaluable for participants, as it not only hones their ideas but also exposes them to the practicalities of turning innovations into successful ventures. In a world that grapples with complex issues ranging from environmental sustainability to technological disruption, hackX places a strong emphasis on innovative and sustainable solutions. As participants converge to present their projects, the event serves as a platform to address some of society’s most pressing challenges.
This focus not only underscores the responsibility of the younger generation but also underscores the role of innovation in building a better world. Each year over 100+ teams apply for hackX with innovative and promising ideas representing both state universities and private higher educational institutes across the country. hackX is reputed to be one of the most awaited hackathons among tech-savvy and passionate IT undergraduates since its inception. Among them both state and private universities are there;
- University of Moratuwa
- University of Peradeniya
- University of Jaffna
- Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
- Open University of Sri Lanka
- University of Colombo School of Computing (UCSC)
- University of Sri Jayawardenepura
- Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology (SLIIT)
- Informatics Institute of Technology (IIT)
Grand finals was held on the 5th of November.
hackX Jr.
hackX Junior 6.0, the sixth edition of the illustrious inter-school hackathon, organized by the Industrial Management Science Students’ Association at the University of Kelaniya, stands as a remarkable journey to nurturing innovation among young minds. Backed by the theme “Give Shapes to Ideas,” this event has not only provided a platform for creativity but has also ignited a fervor for transformation and learning. hackX Junior 6.0 illustrates the unwavering commitment to innovation and empowerment. This resplendent journey is aimed to unleash the potential of bright young minds and activate the transformation of their brilliant ideas into tangible solutions.
With the approval of the Ministry of Education, hackX Jr. 6.0 succeeded in providing the ideal platform for schools to nurture their communities’ innovative ideas. This unique opportunity has the potential to contribute not only to global knowledge but also to drive the local economy forward. The journey has been unfolded through four distinct phases,
- Awareness Session,
- Online and Physical Workshop Series,
- InnoX Semi-finals, and the Grand Finals.
Each phase has been designed to cultivate skills, knowledge, and innovative thinking.
The journey to be commenced with an impactful Awareness Session, was successfully held on September 12th at the University of Kelaniya premises. Over 650 students were introduced to competition guidelines, application procedures, and timelines. Esteemed speakers, including Mr. Dhanika Perera, Founder/CEO of Bhasha Lanka (Pvt.) Ltd. Shared their insights on entrepreneurial mindsets and effective project proposal writing.
Expert-Led Workshops
Equipping Young Minds: A series of online workshops followed, offering participants a chance to learn from industry experts. Diverse topics, from pitching ideas to digital marketing and growth hacking, empower the participants with invaluable skills and real-world knowledge.
InnoX Semi-finals
The Spotlight on Ingenuity: The semi-finals, which was held virtually on September 10th, brought 26 shortlisted teams to the finals. Their innovative ideas will be presented before a distinguished panel of judges, who will assess the concepts for their uniqueness, viability, and potential impact. Finalists selected based on their creativity will be allowed to embark on the journey of refining their ideas into prototypes. Guided by industry experts and professionals, the students will work towards creating the most applicable prototypes. The event will reach its peak with the Grand Finals, to be held on November 20th. finalists will showcase their working prototypes and business models to judges and the audience.
