APIIT International Research Conference 2024 in Partnership with University of Staffordshire.

The Asia Pacific Institute of Information Technology (APIIT) successfully completed its International Research Conference, in partnership with University of Staffordshire, UK at the Commercial Credit Academic Centre, Bolgoda on October 5, 2024. The research conference convened a diverse group of scholars, professionals, and students to delve into the latest advancements across three domains: Business, Computing and Law. Attendees participated in thought-provoking discussions, presented innovative research findings, and collaborated to advance our understanding in these three areas of study.

Organized by the APIIT Lab Pillar, the research arm of APIIT, this conference represents a central component of the institution’s strategic initiatives. The APIIT Lab Pillar, dedicated to fostering a robust research culture, is one of the five cross-functional units—referred to as ‘pillars’—that underpin APIIT Sri Lanka’s purpose and core commitments. As a major annual project, the conference aligns with APIIT's goal to advance research; a fundamental aspect of its educational philosophy. Themed "Crafting the Future through Bold Research," the conference underscored the institution’s dedication to leveraging innovative research for shaping a progressive future.

The call for papers, issued across the disciplines of Business, Computing and Law, garnered an impressive 135 submissions from a range of institutions, including both state and non-state universities. International contributors hailed from countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, Georgia, India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. Following a rigorous double-blind peer review process involving experts from various institutions, including University of Staffordshire, the top 66 papers were selected for presentation at the conference. Building on this foundation, the conference achieved a significant milestone in fostering interdisciplinary research in Business, Computing and Law.  

The Chief Guest for the conference, Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo, Senior Professor (Chair) H. D. Karunaratne, delivered an inspiring keynote address. He emphasized “the importance of research in driving development across all sectors globally, highlighting how access to data is crucial for meaningful research and development of policy”.  The Guest of Honor, Head of the Institute of Business and Innovation at the School of DigitalTechnology, Innovation, and Business, University of Staffordshire, Carol Southall underscored “the importance of collaboration across disciplines, cultures and borders. She emphasized that it is the responsibility of universities to foster interdisciplinary cross-cultural partnerships in order to drive innovation and impactful research”.

Before the commencement of the sessions, a panel discussion was hosted by Mr. Bandula Egodage, Chairman of APIIT Sri Lanka. The panel consisted of the Chief Guest, Senior Professor (Chair) H. D. Karunaratne, Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo; the Guest of Honor, Ms. Carol Southall, Head of the Institute of Business and Innovation at the School of Digital, Technology, Innovation, and Business at University of Staffordshire; Dr. Chaman Wijesiriwardena, Consultant and Head of Research at APIIT Sri Lanka and Mr. Shehan Warusavithana, Joint Country Head of Virtusa Pvt. Ltd.

During the discussion, Senior Professor Karunaratne emphasized the critical role of research in shaping the future and the responsibilities universities hold in driving knowledge creation and innovation across sectors. Ms. Carol Southall highlighted the University's commitment to research excellence and explored potential avenues for collaboration and partnerships between institutions. Dr. Wijesiriwardena shared insights into the evolving research culture at APIIT, while Mr. Warusavithana discussed how cutting-edge research in AI and technology can contribute to the advancement of industries. This rich dialogue set the tone for the rest of the conference, inspiring attendees to reflect on the transformative power of research and collaboration.

The Technical Partner for the conference, Virtusa, conducted a workshop titled "Interdisciplinary Insights." This session focused on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) across multiple disciplines, offering students from APIIT Colombo and Kandy campuses with valuable hands-on experience and insight into the intersection of Business, Computing and Law in an industry setting.

The research paper presentations and discussions took place in parallel sessions throughout the day, offering an invaluable opportunity for both established researchers and emerging scholars to present their findings before a panel of experts. These sessions facilitated critical scholarly exchanges, essential for driving innovation in higher education, while truly embodying APIIT's  Tag Line – Inspire Love for Learning.