Undergraduate Commerce Research Symposium – 2026
The Department of Commerce proudly hosted the 7th Undergraduate Commerce Research Symposium – 2026 on 16th February 2026 at the E110 Lecture Hall, New Multipurpose Building, Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce, University of Sri Jayewardenepura. The symposium was co-chaired by Ms. Nisansala Kulathunga and Mr. Ravindu Kulawardena, whose coordination ensured the seamless execution of the event. More than a ceremonial gathering, the symposium stood as a celebration of inquiry, intellectual courage, and the evolving research identity of our undergraduate community.
Bringing together over 100 participants, the event created a vibrant scholarly atmosphere where ideas were questioned, refined, and elevated. Nine carefully selected undergraduate researchers presented their studies, demonstrating analytical maturity and methodological rigor across diverse areas of commerce. Complementing these presentations, 51 abstracts were published in the official proceedings, offering students a valuable platform for early academic dissemination and professional visibility.
The symposium was enriched by the distinguished panel comprising Senior Professor Nalin Abeysekara, Department of Marketing Management, Open University of Sri Lanka; Dr. (Ms.) Mayuri Atapattu, Senior Lecturer, University of Colombo; and Mr. Nishantha Hewavithana, Senior Vice President – Research and Strategy at the Colombo Stock Exchange, Sri Lanka. Their thoughtful critiques and industry-informed perspectives bridged theory with practice, challenging students to view research not merely as an academic requirement but as a meaningful contribution to the business landscape.
The 7th Undergraduate Commerce Research Symposium once again reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to cultivating a strong research culture at the undergraduate level – where curiosity is encouraged, critical thinking is sharpened, and young scholars are empowered to contribute confidently to academia and industry alike.
