NSBM Department of Accounting and Finance Celebrates Anniversary with Annual Students’ Research Symposium
NSBM Department of Accounting and Finance proudly celebrated its anniversary on 18th February, 2026 by successfully convening the Accounting and Finance Students’ Research Symposium (AFSRS) 2026 for the 4th consecutive year under the theme:
“Empowering Financial Futures through Financial Literacy, Behavioural Insights, and Decision-Making.”
The symposium was graced by Dr. Thilini De Silva, Dean – Faculty of Business with the keynote address delivered by Prof. Tharusha N. Goonaratne, Chair Professor, Department of Accounting, University of Colombo.
The event was further honored by Guest Speaker Mr. Tishan Subasinghe, President of CA Sri Lanka, who also delivered an inspiring address. The occasion was further distinguished by the presence of Ms. Anoji De Silva – Vice President, CA Sri Lanka, Ms. Lakmali Priyangika – Chief Executive Officer, CA Sri Lanka, along with other esteemed members of CA Sri Lanka.
Following the formal proceedings, the symposium’s parallel sessions were strengthened by the presence of distinguished panelists:
Dr. S.M.R. Kithsiri – Senior Lecturer, Department of Accountancy, Wayamba University
Dr. Nuwan Jayarathne – Head/Senior Lecturer, Department of Scientific Computing, Faculty of Computing, University of Sri Jayewardenepura
Ms. Senani Thenuwara – Lecturer, Department of Finance, University of Colombo
Research presentations were delivered under four significant thematic areas:
• Financial Literacy, Capability, and Financial Well-Being
• Behavioural Finance and Investment Decision-Making
• Digital Finance, Financial Technology, and Service Quality
• Accounting, Governance, and Professional Practice
This year marked a historic milestone as AFSRS introduced the 3-Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition for undergraduates for the very first time at the Faculty. A.A.Y. Yashodara emerged as the winner of the 3MT competition, while L.H.K.S. Kumarasinghe was recognized as the Best Presenter and had the privilege of presenting at the main session.
AFSRS 2026 continues to strengthen its legacy as a platform of academic excellence, intellectual rigor, and meaningful collaboration between academia and industry, inspiring future finance professionals to lead with knowledge, integrity, and innovation.