Suraj Radampola, youngest to take chair at Colombo MBA Alumni Association

University of Colombo MBA Alumni Association Asst. Secretary Nayomi Weerasinghe, Secretary Pradeep Gunasekara,  Immediate President Kulendran Sivaram, President Suraj Radampola, Deputy President Ajith de Silva, Vice President Thantrige Supeshala, Treasurer Tharindu Atapattu, and Asst. Treasurer Hema Mayadunna 

– Pix by Sameera Wijesinghe

• Unveils leadership theme “Innovative Collaboration - Our Trailblazer”

Suraj Radampola last week became the youngest to be elected as President of the MBA Alumni Association, University of Colombo, during the 27th AGM at Cinnamon Grand.

Suraj’s appointment brings a fresh wave of hope and innovation to the organisation. He is a versatile IT professional, widely recognised for his expertise both locally and internationally. He is a sought-after speaker at university forums, known for his use of multimedia in delivering lectures. Immersed in new technology, Suraj is an advocate for the integration of AI and other advanced technologies into university processes.

In his inaugural speech, Suraj emphasised his theme, “Innovative Collaboration - Our Trailblazer.” He highlighted the significant changes occurring in the educational, economic, and financial spheres of the country. “Our association must embrace these changes and demonstrate our relevance in the face of them,” he stated.

Suraj underscored the necessity for the association to confront these impending changes with a fresh mandate, innovating to master them. He announced plans to collaborate with both the private and public sectors, organising informative and innovative programs that will delve into AI, machine learning, and other emerging technologies. Suraj aims to leverage the resources of the association’s 11,000 members worldwide to benefit the university.

The Colombo University Vice-Chancellor Senior Professor H. D. Karunaratne, in his address, discussed the university’s world ranking, noting that the University of Colombo is the largest in South Asia. He emphasised the university’s role in mobilising human capital, especially crucial as the country emerges from a crisis. He also pledged to increase research output and encourage shared learning.

The Chief Guest, Standard Chartered Bank CEO Bingumal Thewarathanthri, spoke forcefully about transnational economies and the shifts in geopolitical economic power bases. He acknowledged the country’s financial recovery while cautioning against complacency. He conveyed a sense of optimism and stressed the importance of inclusivity.

Outgoing President Sivaram Kulendran recapped the year’s activities, highlighting major achievements and expressing gratitude to the outgoing committee for their dedication. He also thanked his fellow members and supporters, emphasising their crucial role in the organisation’s success not forgetting the corporate partners and sponsors. Several positive amendments to the constitution were adopted unanimously at the AGM, and Ernst & Young were reappointed as auditors. Over 100 members attended the meeting, which was followed by an opportunity for fellowship.

Following is the new Colombo University MBA Alumni team for 2024/25.

Suraj Radampola – President

Ajith De Silva – Deputy President

Thantrige Supeshala – Vice President

Pradeep Gunasekara – Secretary

Tharindu Atapattu – Treasurer

Nayomi Weerasinghe – Assistant Secretary

Hema Mayadunna – Assistant Treasurer

Kelendran Sivaram – Immediate Past President

The Ex-Co members are Upali Ratnayake, Prabath Gunawardana, Pavithra Samarasingha, Chethana Liyanage, Chamila Cooray, Nilushana Sooriyaarachchi, Kumudumalee Alwis, Harsha Ubesekara, Janitha Mendis, Nilanka Abeywickrama, Sanjeewa Buwanekabahu, Asankhaa Gunasinghe, and Suranga Jayarathna. Trustees include Lalith Sumanasiri, Sarma Mahalingam, and Irshan Jayah. Ex-Officio members are Past Presidents Chandima Samarasingha, Boshan Dayaratne, Thusitha De Silva, Anusha Wijeguneratne, Saranga Wijerathna, Prasad Jayasuriya, Neil De Mel, and Jude Silva.