Start
November 24, 2024
End
November 25, 2024
J’PURA EXPO 2024, the flagship initiative of the Department of Business Economics, Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, was held for the third consecutive year on November 24th and 25th, 2024. This premier event has become a significant platform for driving industry-academia collaboration, fostering student engagement, and supporting national development through empowering Sri Lanka’s SME sector.
Day 1 – A Grand Kick-Off at Mihilaka Medura, BMICH:
The first day showcased the scale and impact of the event with a dynamic mix of programs aimed at uplifting SMEs.
- The Export Product Fair offered a vibrant exhibition space where SMEs demonstrated their products to a wide audience, including industry professionals, investors, and policymakers. This interaction opened doors for strategic partnerships and offered SMEs constructive feedback to refine their global strategies.
- The day also featured an Export-Oriented Workshop, which empowered participants with actionable insights into digital marketing strategies, customs clearance processes, and entrepreneurial journeys of success. These sessions equipped SMEs with the tools to effectively overcome barriers to internationalisation and tap into global markets.
- A key highlight of the day was Venture Vista, an innovative investor pitching competition where entrepreneurs presented groundbreaking business ideas to a panel of investors, securing funding and mentorship opportunities to scale their ventures globally.
Day 2 – Charting Sri Lanka’s Export Horizon (Sri Sumangala Auditorium, USJ):
The second day brought together experts, policymakers, and business leaders for a compelling panel discussion under the theme “Local to Global: Building Future-Proof SMEs for Sri Lanka’s Export Horizon.” This discussion delved into global export trends, the adoption of advanced technologies, and the development of policy frameworks critical to enhancing Sri Lanka’s competitiveness in global trade. The session highlighted the importance of innovation and strategic planning in building resilient SMEs ready to navigate international market challenges.
Fostering Industry-Academia Collaboration and National Development…
As a pioneering initiative of the Department of Business Economics, J’PURA EXPO 2024 demonstrated the transformative role of academia in addressing national challenges. By bringing together industry leaders, policymakers, and students, the department strengthened its position as a catalyst for industry-academia collaboration. The event provided students with unique opportunities to engage with professionals, gain practical insights, and broaden their global perspective, enriching their academic journey.
The event served as a testament to the commitment of the Department of Business Economics to national development and economic progress. J’PURA EXPO 2024 not only underscored the potential of Sri Lanka’s SMEs but also highlighted academia’s vital role in bridging knowledge gaps, fostering innovation, and shaping policy. With its comprehensive approach to networking, knowledge-sharing, and practical support, the event stands as a beacon of how academia and industry can collaborate to drive meaningful change for the benefit of the nation.
Towards sustainable development…
J’PURA EXPO 2024 also contributed to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by supporting Sri Lanka’s SME sector. The event played a key role in advancing SDG Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by helping SMEs grow their global reach, encouraging entrepreneurship, and promoting sustainable economic development. It also supported SDG Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure by fostering innovation, building industry connections, and enhancing the competitiveness of local businesses. Additionally, the event strengthened SDG Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals by bringing together academia, industry, and policymakers to work collaboratively in achieving shared development objectives.
Through such initiatives, the Department of Business Economics continues to create tangible value for students, the university, and Sri Lanka’s economy, reinforcing its commitment to driving sustainable growth and global competitiveness.
