SLIIT, the nation’s pioneering non-state higher education institution, commemorated a 25-year legacy of academic excellence, innovation, and industry contribution at a grand Silver Jubilee celebration on March 8, 2025. The spectacular event was held at The Forum at Cinnamon Life, City of Dreams, Colombo.
SLIIT has been at the forefront of technology education in Sri Lanka, since 1999 producing thousands of graduates who have made significant contributions to the IT industry locally and globally. The Silver Jubilee served as a platform to reflect on SLIIT’s remarkable journey and to appreciate the trust and support of students, staff, industry partners, and global collaborators.
The event was graced by distinguished guests, including H.E. Paul Stephens, Australian High Commissioner, H.E. Eric Walsh, High Commissioner for Canada in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, and Prof. Harlene Hayne, Vice-Chancellor of Curtin University, Australia, along with esteemed industry experts. Over 350 guests, including foreign diplomats, SLIIT Board Members, corporate leaders, government authorities, university partners, and senior academic and corporate figures, participated in the occasion.
Prof. Lalith Gamage, the founder of SLIIT, shared a remarkable journey of the institution’s growth over the past 25 years. Mr. Mano Sekaram, Founder and Chairman of 99X Technology, highlighted the sustainability and industry advancements that SLIIT has contributed. The panel discussion was further enriched by insights from esteemed experts: Prof. Nimal Rajapakse, Prof. Mahesha Kapurubandara, Dr. Kalpani Manathunga, Ms. Randima Niroshini and the session was moderated by Ms. Bernadine Jayasinghe, an Entrepreneur and a Corporate trainer.
The panel discussion explored SLIIT’s remarkable 25-year evolution, highlighting the challenges overcome and the vital support from key personnel, organizations, and institutions, both local and international, that contributed to its growth. During the discussions, panelists reflected how SLIIT has been instrumental in shaping Sri Lanka’s technology landscape by addressing critical talent shortages and generating industry-academia collaboration.
Having produced over 40,000 IT professionals, the institution has significantly contributed to growing the country’s IT industry to nearly $2 billion.
To date, SLIIT’s educational impact extends beyond IT, diversifying into cybersecurity, software engineering, and various other fields including engineering, biotechnology, nursing, law, architecture, psychology, and tourism and hospitality. Strategic partnerships with global universities have enhanced academic offerings.
SLIIT pioneered practical industry integration through internship programs, scholarship opportunities, and curriculum alignment with market needs. The commitment to real-world application has been complemented by innovation initiatives, including establishing Sri Lanka’s first business incubator in 2001, which supported successful start-ups.
Through these comprehensive efforts, SLIIT has transformed private IT education in Sri Lanka, gaining industry trust and playing a crucial role in building a globally competitive ecosystem across multiple sectors while maintaining agility in adapting to evolving industry trends and standards.
Professor Lalith Gamage, Vice Chancellor and CEO of SLIIT, shared his thoughts during the panel discussion. He stated, “The idea of establishing what is now known as the Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology (SLIIT) first emerged in 1998, during my time at Moratuwa University. With the support of various professionals and officials, we initially aimed to establish an institute affiliated with the University of Moratuwa. However, in 1999, this vision evolved into an independent entity, incorporated as a company limited by guarantee, as there was no government funding commitment. SLIIT began its journey at the BOC Merchant Tower in Kollupitiya. When applications opened initially for a diploma program in IT, we received 3,152 applications, ultimately selecting 400 students to commence the program. As SLIIT grew, we secured land in Malabe through a lease agreement with the Mahapola Trust Fund, and this lease agreement will continue for another 50 years. Today, we have expanded across Sri Lanka, providing education to more students through multiple campuses and institutions.”
He further added, “I am immensely proud of SLIIT’s journey and the impact it has had on education in Sri Lanka.” This is just the beginning, and we remain committed to further contributing to the nation’s economy while upholding the highest standards of education for our students. My heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been a part of it, including those who are present here today. Your unwavering support has been instrumental in shaping our institution, strengthening our brand, and ensuring that we continue to provide quality education to the nation. Tonight, we raise a glass to our shared success and the promising future ahead.”
The proceedings featured a perfect blend of knowledge sharing, appreciation, and entertainment, including captivating performances by the SLIIT Team Diamond dance troupe. The event provided an excellent networking opportunity for industry leaders, academics, and partners.
As SLIIT celebrated this significant milestone, the institution is poised for continued growth with plans to expand its global footprint. SLIIT remains dedicated to excellence in education, research, and industry collaboration, reaffirming the position as a leader in higher education in Sri Lanka and beyond.
For more information about SLIIT visit www.sliit.lk
