The Department of Management at NSBM Green University successfully concluded its 3rd Student Research Symposium 2026, marking another significant milestone in strengthening undergraduate research culture. The symposium, held on April 7th, 2026 at the Green Board Room (GBR), was organized under the timely and thought-provoking theme: “Human Resource Management at the Crossroads: Technology, Inclusion, and Sustainable World.”

As a prelude to the main symposium, a Pre-Conference Session was conducted on April 6th, 2026, bringing together enthusiastic undergraduate researchers in an engaging academic setting. The session focused on the theme, “Writing an Effective Systematic Literature Review Using AI Tools,” addressing one of the most critical stages of the research process.

The session was graced by Dr. Michelle Silva, Senior Lecturer in Human Resource Management at the University of Kelaniya, whose expert insights provided valuable guidance to students. Emphasizing the importance of building a strong theoretical foundation, identifying research gaps, and maintaining academic rigor, she also highlighted the effective and ethical use of emerging AI tools in research. The session played a key role in equipping students with essential skills to enhance the quality, depth, and integrity of their academic work.

A key highlight of the pre-conference was the introduction of the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Research Idea Presentation Competition, organized for the first time by the Department of Management. This innovative initiative provided final-year undergraduate students with a dynamic platform to present their research ideas within a strict three-minute timeframe.

The competition challenged participants to communicate complex research concepts in a clear, concise, and engaging manner, thereby strengthening their research communication skills—an essential competency in both academic and professional domains. Students demonstrated remarkable creativity, confidence, and critical thinking, reflecting the department’s growing research culture.

The competition was evaluated by a distinguished panel comprising Dr. Thilini De Silva, Dean of the Faculty of Business, Dr. Rashika Mudunkotuwa, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Accounting and Finance, and Dr. Tharindu Gunathilaka, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Management. This inaugural initiative marked a significant step forward in promoting innovative and impactful research dissemination.

Originally initiated in 2024, the Student Research Symposium has evolved into a prominent platform for showcasing undergraduate research at NSBM. The 2026 symposium was chaired by Dr. Tharindu Gunathilaka and coordinated by Ms. Prabha Silva, Symposium Secretary, whose dedication ensured the successful execution of the event.

The Department extends its sincere appreciation to Dr. Thilini De Silva, Dean of the Faculty of Business, and Ms. Aushadharie Kaushalya, Head of the Department of Management, for their leadership, guidance, and invaluable support. The collective efforts of the academic staff of the Department of Management played a vital role in making the symposium a success.

The event was further enriched by the presence of the distinguished keynote speaker, Prof. Sashika Manoratne, Head of the Department of Management and Organizational Studies, Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo. Her insightful keynote address offered valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of human resource management, contributing meaningfully to the academic discourse of the symposium.