Research Centre for Business and Society (RCBS)

Research Centre for Business and Society (RCBS) established by the Department of Business Administration of the Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, aims to create a dynamic, research-driven academic environment. The Centre brings together a diverse group of stakeholders, including academic staff of the Department, undergraduate and postgraduate students, and researchers and professionals from recognised public and private sector organisations.

Purpose of RCBS

The primary purpose of the RCBS is to promote a research-led teaching culture and to strengthen collaboration between academia and industry. It seeks to generate impactful research that enriches knowledge, enhances organisational practices, and improves the well- being of society. The Centre also encourages the use of diverse methodological approaches in business research, thereby strengthening both theoretical development and practical application in the field.

Objectives of RCBS

i. To promote and facilitate a research-led teaching culture within the Department;

ii. To work collaboratively with industry practitioners to develop research that provide insights to expand their product and service offerings, introduce new business models and people engagement strategies;

iii. To promote different and alternative methodological and epistemological approaches to business research;

iv. To conduct research in the broader area of management, organisational behaviour, and other organisational studies individually as well as collaboratively;

v. To provide a support system for the Department to plan, develop, secure funding for and conduct research on problems of interest to the academic and business community;

vi. To contribute the postgraduate (MPhil, MBA, MSc) and undergraduate programmes by providing supervision for the students in their research projects and giving them opportunities to engage in assistantships and other work arrangements;

vii. To provide a vehicle for unique social research and public service programmes that do not fit more traditional academic structures;

viii. To combine expertise and capacities of multiple institutions, disciplines, and professions in addressing complex business problems;

ix. To publish research findings in high impact journals;

x. To establish strong links/ partnerships/ collaborations between the Department of Business Administration and the corporate sector/ other research centres/ other educational institutions and government and non-governmental institutions in terms of research related to organisational studies;

xi. To ensure the training of future researchers in management and business research;

xii. To enhance the public visibility of the Department of Business Administration;

Activities of RCBS

Key activities of the RCBS include conducting multidisciplinary research in management and organisational studies, securing research funding, publishing in high-impact journals, and supporting student research through supervision. Additionally, the Centre facilitates collaborations with corporate, governmental, and non-governmental institutions, while contributing to public service initiatives and enhancing the Department’s visibility. Ultimately, the RCBS aims to develop future researchers and address complex business challenges through collaborative expertise.