J’PURA EXPO 2023
J’PURA EXPO 2023, the flagship event of the Department of Business Economics, Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, was successfully held for the second consecutive year on 14 and 17 December 2023. The event featured seven major activities conducted at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura and the Mihilaka Medura premises of BMICH.
Phase 1: University of Sri Jayewardenepura
The first phase of J’PURA EXPO 2023 was held at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. The day commenced with the final round of the ExpoGenius Quest: Inter-University Innovation Competition, which provided a platform for students to present innovative ideas and demonstrate their entrepreneurial potential.
The inauguration ceremony of J’PURA EXPO 2023 was held at the Sri Sumangala Hall. The ceremony also marked the launch of the J’PURA EXPO Magazine and the Book of Guide on Financing Export-Oriented SMEs, adding further academic and practical value to the event.
A key highlight of the first phase was the Industry Forum held under the theme, “Navigating Growth: Elevating Export Competitiveness.” The forum brought together industry experts, academics, and policymakers to discuss strategies for strengthening Sri Lanka’s export competitiveness and supporting the growth of export-oriented enterprises.
The panel comprised Ms. Thilaka Jayasundara, Secretary of the Ministry of Industries; Dr. Kingsley Bernard, Chairman and CEO of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board; Mr. Sudattha Silva, Additional Director General of Sri Lanka Customs; Mr. Sarath Ganegoda, Executive Director of Hayleys PLC; and Ms. Taniya Abeysoondara, President of the Sri Lankan United Business Association and Ceylon United Business Alliance. The session was moderated by Prof. Sumudu Perera of the Department of Business Economics, University of Sri Jayewardenepura.
The discussion focused on export competitiveness, industry readiness, policy support, and practical pathways for enabling Sri Lankan enterprises to perform more effectively in international markets.
Phase 2: Mihilaka Medura, BMICH
The second phase of J’PURA EXPO 2023 was held on 17 December 2023 at the Mihilaka Medura premises of BMICH. The Export Product Fair and Exporters’ Hub provided a platform for small and medium-sized exporters from across the island to showcase their products, connect with experts, and receive guidance on improving their export readiness.
The Exporters’ Hub featured the participation of academics, industry professionals, government officials, and representatives from export-related institutions. The sessions provided practical guidance on marketing, product development, food science and technology, export promotion, industrial development, policy support, regional development, and international market access.
The Export Product Fair and Exporters’ Hub brought together small and medium-sized exporters, academics, policymakers, and industry experts in a shared effort to strengthen the export capabilities of Sri Lankan enterprises. The initiative created space for product showcasing, expert consultations, networking, and knowledge sharing.
The sessions reflected the broader purpose of J’PURA EXPO, which is to connect academic knowledge, institutional support, and industry practice to promote export-oriented SME development.
Session on Safe Labour Migration
On the same day, an informative session on safe labour migration was conducted at 9.00 a.m. at the Mihilaka Medura premises of BMICH. The session highlighted the importance of ensuring the safety, rights, and well-being of migrant workers.
The panel featured Mr. Nishantha Warnasooriya, National Project Coordinator at ILO Sri Lanka; Ms. Sesath Thambugala, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Japan; Mr. Imthath Basar, Senior Project Coordinator at IOM Sri Lanka; and Mr. Nikaril Kanth, Senior Assistant Secretary at the Development Division of the Ministry of Labour and Foreign Employment.
Workshop on Empowering SMEs to E-Platforms
A workshop on Empowering SMEs to E-Platforms was also conducted as part of the second phase. The first session was led by Mr. Aminda Lakmal, Senior Lecturer of the Department of Marketing Management, FMSC, USJ, who discussed the use of e-platforms to support small and medium enterprises.
This was followed by a session conducted by Mr. Chandika Witharana, Chief Executive Officer of Asia Pacific Institute of Business Analytics (Pvt) Ltd, who shared insights into the potential of e-platforms in transforming business operations. The workshop concluded with a session on LEAP Digital Ecosystem by Commercial Bank and its digital products, providing participants with further exposure to digital commerce and technology-enabled business development.
Forum on Navigating Growth: Elevating Export Competitiveness
The Industry Forum on “Navigating Growth: Elevating Export Competitiveness” was one of the central events of J’PURA EXPO 2023. It created an opportunity for participants to gain insights from policymakers, industry leaders, academics, and export-sector professionals on strategies required to strengthen Sri Lanka’s export competitiveness.
Overall, J’PURA EXPO 2023 served as a platform for innovation, collaboration, enterprise development, and export promotion. By bringing together students, entrepreneurs, academics, industry leaders, policymakers, and development partners, the event contributed to the Department’s continued efforts to support SME development and strengthen Sri Lanka’s export-oriented growth.
ExpoGenius Quest: Inter-university Innovation Competition
Innovation is the heart of economic growth and development. To foster creativity and entrepreneurship, J’pura Expo 2023 featured an innovation competition for undergraduates from Sri Lankan state universities. Participants had the chance to showcase their innovative ideas, products, or services, competing for recognition and valuable prizes.
Publication of a Standard Book on Guide on financing Export-oriented SMEs
Knowledge sharing is key to progress. As a part of J’pura Expo 2023, a standard booklet was published, offering valuable information and best practices for businesses looking to thrive in the export sector. This resource serves as a guide for both budding entrepreneurs and established companies seeking to enhance their export strategies.
Publication of “J’pura Expo -2022” Magazine
This magazine included in-depth descriptions of our earlier initiatives, providing insightful information about our dedication to progress and innovation. It also contained transcripts of the insightful export policy review forum event. Additionally, the success tales from the remarkable SME proprietors who attended our product fair, highlighting their path to success and wealth. A compelling and insightful publication that captured our commitment to empowerment and growth was released.
Workshop on Empowering SMEs to E-Platforms
SMEs are the backbone of any economy. The workshop on the second day of J’pura Expo 2023 focused on empowering SMEs to transition into the digital era. E-platforms offer endless opportunities for SMEs to expand their reach, and this workshop provided them with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in the digital marketplace.
Exporters’ Hub
The Exporters’ Hub at the BMICH was a central point for businesses looking to explore export opportunities. This hub connected local exporters with potential partners and customers from around the world, facilitating networking and collaboration that could lead to significant growth.
Export Product Fair
The Export Product Fair showcased Sri Lanka’s finest exports, providing businesses with the opportunity to display their products to a broad audience, attracting potential buyers and investors. This fair promoted Sri Lankan exports and opened up new markets for these products.
Awareness Session on Safe Labor Migration Ensuring the safety and welfare of Sri Lankan migrant workers was a vital concern. J’pura Expo 2023 included an awareness session on safe labor migration, addressing the challenges faced by potential migrants seeking job opportunities abroad and the support available to them. This session underlined the commitment to protecting the interests of the workforce.